Planning to adopt a dog with white fur and want an appropriate name? Some breeds are exclusively white, but there are plenty of others that will produce a white dog. Choose from this fun list of names for white dogs!
Dogs come in all colors, shapes, and sizes. Some people choose to care for black ones with shiny coats for a classier look. Others, meanwhile, choose tricolor canines for a more distinct and attention-grabbing appearance. Besides the pup’s personality, coat color is one of the things pet parents consider when looking for a new furry best friend.
Many believe that owning a new dog must be based solely on a personality match, but at the end of the day, every pet parent has his or her own preferences. As for me, I admit that I’m so attracted to the beauty of white dogs! Fluffy or thin, big or small, they are just so elegant.
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Are all-white dogs considered albino?
This is a common misconception, but no, they are not the same. White dogs have genetic markers that allow the white pigment to suppress all the other colors. On the other hand, albinism is a rare genetic abnormality caused by the absence of melanin, as well as the other enzymes that produce it.
How can you tell if your white dog is an albino? Genetic testing is the way to go, but even with just a close inspection, you can figure out whether your dog (or other pet) is albino. Most albino canines can easily be recognized by their pinkish nose and eyes. Dogs with the usual dark eyes and noses shouldn’t be confused as albinos.
White dog breeds
If you are looking into adopting a dog with white fur, here are the most popular options. White dogs range from big independent ones to apartment-friendly canines.
Samoyed
Samoyeds are probably the most popular white breeds out there. They were originally bred in Siberia to herd reindeer, haul sleds and, of course, as best friends for northwestern Siberia’s Samoyede people. They have dense coats that are so thick, you can barely see the skin underneath.
Ready to start your journey as a pet parent of a Samoyed? Prepare yourself for a strict grooming routine. You need to be a diligent brusher to ensure that your Samoyed’s mega-thick hair won’t mat and tangle.
West Highland Terrier
Just like other terriers, Westies are bred to hunt foxes, rats, and other small animals. They still love the hunting game, until today. Don’t be surprised if your Westie starts looking for mice in your backyard!
Worried about the beautiful white coat getting dirty all the time? Don’t worry. Overall, a West Highland Terrier’s maintenance requirements are low. They also don’t shed a lot. Following simple Westie care tips will keep her in her cleanest and whitest!
Japanese Spitz
Don’t let the cute size of the Japanese Spitz deceive you. They may be small, but they have huge fiery personalities! If you are considering a Samoyed but can’t manage the demands of a big dog just yet, you may want to learn more about the Japanese Spitz.
They are great mid-sized companions for those who want a smaller, low-maintenance breed. Their thick white coats just require basic care – just keep it clean with regular brushing!
Maltese
From the scenic land of Malta, Maltese dogs are iconic canines that are perfect for condo and apartment living. These small canines are known as the ultimate “comforters” and loyal companions. Apart from enjoying the love and attention of their humans, they are super responsive to their surroundings, making them good watchdogs.
As for the white coat, it’s relatively easy to keep it clean, white, and bright. With the consistent use of mild, quality dog hair products and with regular grooming, your Maltese will surely be pretty, happy, and healthy.
American Eskimo Dog
American Eskimo Dogs are the foxes of the canine world. Developed from German Spitz and other spitz breeds, they are known for their erect ears, jet black nose and eyes, and white coat.
These dogs have nothing to do with Eskimo culture, and can actually do well in all climates. As long as you don’t expose them to extreme weather conditions for extended hours, they are going to be just fine. Even their white coat is easy to maintain. Thorough brushing two to three times each week is enough to remove dead hairs and prevent matting.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a teddy bear-like dog popular for its gentle and affectionate demeanor. Due to its small size, this breed is perfect for those who live in small apartments and those who can spend most of their time with them.
Keep in mind that these dogs are prone to separation anxiety, and may suffer from depression if left for long periods. Also, their coarse outer coat and dense undercoat require a strict grooming routine, though they’re a small dog that doesn’t shed.
Coton de Tulear
Coton de Tulears are little white dogs originally bred as companion pets for Madagascar’s elite. One of the most interesting facts about them is that their early ancestors were seafaring dogs that keep homesick sailors company. Today, they are still considered excellent companion canines for both the young and old.
These dogs are usually white. They are born with black, brown, or yellow spots, and as they grow older, these colorations disappear or fade into lighter colors. The keys to a healthy, captivating white fur? Routine brushing and bathing! Bathing frequency would depend on your dog’s lifestyle, but it shouldn’t take longer than every 3 weeks.
Other dogs that are white
These dog breeds, while not exclusively white, are still elegant companionship champions! Get to know these breeds, too, while looking for a dog with white fur. Then, you can still use of these names for white dogs.
Siberian Husky
Huskies are the ultimate winter dogs. They come in gray, black, sable, red, and a classy pure white coat. Many of them, no matter what color, will always have a bit of white in their bodies!
To be an excellent Husky parent, you need to be an effective pack leader and enjoy an outdoor lifestyle. Apart from giving them lots of exercises, brushing sessions should be scheduled twice a week.
Pomeranian
With its lively personality, majestic coat, and foxy face, Pomeranians are, no doubt, dogs fit for royalty. Royals from the earlier times, including Queen Victoria of England, were said to own Pomeranians. Today, these canines are bred for good companionship and as family pets.
Poms come in a wide range of colors, from blue and lavender to brown, black, and white! The specific conditioner or shampoo you choose for your Pom will make a huge difference to the overall state of her hair. As much as possible, settle with plant-based products with natural fragrances.
German Shepherd
We all love the common black and tan German Shepherd, but guess what, pure whites can be just as magnificent. Back in the day, white German Shepherds were considered important animals for European farmers. They were excellent herding dogs, with their pristine white coats blending perfectly into flocks of livestock. This made it easier to spot wolves among the entire herd.
A white German Shepherd’s coat has a straight, dense topcoat layer that is harsh to the touch. The undercoat meanwhile is softer. Some owners believe that brushing once a day will keep the hair tangle-free and smooth. Others, though, stick to a twice-a-week schedule.
Chihuahua
According to the American Kennel Club, Chihuahuas may come in at least 29 coat colors, as well as 11 potential color combinations. There are fawn, black, chocolate, cream, white and more. For many dog lovers, the white ones are the most striking.
Grooming requirements for Chihuahuas of any color are going to depend on the fur type. There are short and long hair varieties. Remember that even if you have a short-haired white Chihuahua, occasional brushing is still important.
Poodle
Poodles of all sizes are known for their brilliant learning abilities and superior intelligence. It’s impossible not to love their flair and elegant appearance.
Of all the breed’s standard colors, white is one of the most common. If you want to care for a white Poodle merely as a family dog and not as a show dog, it’s better to keep her coat in a short clip. This can prevent mats and avoid infection and irritation.
Havanese
Pocket-sized stature. Expressive eyes. Beautiful, silky hair. The Havanese is one of the cutest dogs there is, but they are definitely more than that just charm and good looks.
They are also highly trainable, working as assistance and therapy dogs. The Havanese come in many colors and shadings, but most pet parents enjoy the company of the white Havanese the most.
The Cutest Names for White Dogs
It’s not necessary to name your dog based on the color of its fur. But if you’re thinking about it for your white dog, here are some fun choices!
- Angel
- Aspen
- Blanca
- Blizzard
- Casper
- Cloud
- Cotton
- Dove
- Frost or Frosty
- Ghost
- Luna
- Marshmallow
- Olaf
- Pearl
- Snow or Snowy
- Snowball
- Snowflake
- Snow White
- Stella (which means star)
- Sugar
- Vanilla
- Wisp
- Winter
- Yeti
- Zero
How to care for a white dog’s coat
No matter what white dog breed you end up with, you’ll surely have the most amazing time as a dog owner. But, you also need to prepare yourself for the challenges of owning an exclusively white pup! Many of these love playing, most especially in the great outdoors, and would roll in the mud, staining their snowy white coats.
Maintaining their white fur is a challenge since it can yellow over time, due to body oil overexposure. Even with regular bathing, stains can be hard to remove. Let me give you some basic guidelines that will help prevent white dog fur discoloration. Then your pup can live up to one of these names for dogs that are white!
Use whitening shampoo
Yes, whitening shampoos for dogs exist! Even pee stains can stand out in an all-white coat – using a simple dog shampoo is not enough to remove it. Whitening dog shampoos are specifically formulated to get rid of these stains, brighten white fur and prevent the coat from getting dingy and yellowish.
Bathe your dog regularly
Bathing your dog regularly means removing debris, dirt, and oils that may dull and yellow her white coat. If there are already existing stains, focus on cleaning those parts during bath time. Spot wash them.
Brush your white dog’s fur 2-3 times a week
Brushing your white dog regularly cuts down shedding, eliminates mats, and properly distributes the natural oils to her skin. Now, what kind of brush to use?! A slicker brush is one of the most popular types of brushes for pets. It has thin wire pins that help detangle and remove loose fur. It works well on all kinds of coats!
Remove tear stains
Tear stains are reddish, brown marks that appear beneath a dog’s eyes. Regardless of the breed, white canines are more likely to have visible tear stains because of the pigments that easily blemish their fur.
The first thing to do when you notice tear stains is to keep the hair around her eyes trimmed. See to it that your dog is comfortable and that the stains wouldn’t cause irritation. Then, clean the affected area with a towel or cotton ball soaked in warm water. Constantly wipe it throughout the day. It may take a few weeks before the area clears up, but it will in time. You can also try a wide range of natural methods.
More Name Ideas
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