16 Unknown Blonde Dog Breeds (With Pictures, Facts & More)

Last Updated on February, 2025

Are you familiar with the timeless charm of classic blonde dog breeds? 

Most people have heard of the beloved Golden Retriever, but the dog world offers diverse blond canine companions, each with unique characteristics and qualities. 

From the elegant Afghan Hound to the playful Bichon Frise and the spirited Shiba Inu to the regal Pharaoh Hound, there’s a fascinating world of blonde dog breeds waiting to be explored.

In this article, we’ve curated a list of the 16 most popular blonde dog breeds, and we’ll delve into their distinctive personality traits, average sizes, and life expectancy. 

If you’re a dog enthusiast or considering bringing a new furry friend into your life, read on to discover more about these captivating companions!

Quick Summary

The 16 Popular blonde dog breeds are the Golden Retriever, Bloodhound, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Australian Terrier, Afghan Hound, Chow Chow, Chihuahua, Bull Mastiff, Bichon Frise, Maltese, Cocker Spaniel, Barbet, Pomeranian, Pharaoh Hound, English Cocker Spaniel, Great Pyrenees and a variety of mixed breed blonde dogs.

The genetic basis of blonde coats in dogs is linked to the MC1R gene which determines the pigmentation in dogs with shades of gold, cream, yellow, tan and red.

Blonde dog breeds tend to have spirited, loving and playful personalities and have various coat lengths and types. They have a low to average level of shedding and require regular coat grooming and brushing to ensure their coats remain healthy. Sun protection should also be considered for blonde dogs.

The Genetics Behind Blonde Dogs

What causes dogs to have blonde coats at a genetic level?

Blonde dogs possess a specific gene known as “MC1R,” which plays a crucial role in pigmentation.

This pigmentation process involves melanin, where Eumelanin is responsible for dark or black pigmentation, and the presence of Pheomelanin results in fur that is colored in shades of red, orange, gold, cream, yellow, or tan.

This gene, MC1R, holds the key to understanding the genetic basis of blonde coats in dogs, unraveling the mystery behind their distinctive and elegant appearance.

The 16 Most Popular Blonde Dog Breeds

Let’s discuss the most popular and beautiful dog breeds, their personality types, and some quick facts about each. 

1. Golden Retriever

a golden retriever looking at the camera

Did you know that Golden Retrievers are known for their intelligence? They stand proudly among the most intelligent and famous blonde dog breeds. They have a good appetite and yearn for affection and attention from the dog owner. 

Golden Retrievers are the ultimate playmates and wonderful companions. This breed is excellent for beginners as they are easy to train and highly obedient. 

Golden Retrievers exist in 3 main colors: dark golden, golden, and light golden. 

Do their hair coats shed? Yes, it looks like they shed a lot. Therefore, you need to follow regular brushing and grooming. To keep them away from allergies, ensure to give the best care. 

Quick facts: 

  • Average sizes: 
  • Height: 23 to 24 inches (male) and 21.5 to 22.5 inches (female)
  • Weight: 65 to 75 pounds (male) and 55 to 65 pounds (female)
  • Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years

Get a best training collar for your Golden Retriever. Also getting a best Golden Retriever dog crate would be a great decision if you are going to own this dog.


2. Bloodhound

a bloodhound dog breed seated in a grass field

A Bloodhound’s looks can steal your heart! 

How? They have a mopey look and are quite attractive. You can also find them in black and tan, liver and tan and red. Generally, Bloodhounds are affectionate dogs and great with family and children. Therefore, they make great pets. 

Apart from that, they have an average shedding. So, regular grooming and brushing of the blonde coats can be done on a monthly basis. Plus, they have a coat that is smooth and short. 

Quick facts: 

  • Average sizes: 
  • Height: 25 to 27 inches (male) and 23 to 25 inches (female)
  • Weight: 90 to 110 pounds (male) and 80 to 100 pounds (female)
  • Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years

See how much does a Bloodhound dog cost.


3. Chesapeake Bay Retriever (Chessie)

a Chesapeake Bay Retriever (Chessie) sitting outside in a grassland

Do you like American classic dogs? The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is one of them. 

The American Kennel Club (AKC) granted them official recognition in 1878, establishing them as one of the earliest breeds to receive such recognition.

If you like adventures, Chessie would be your ideal partner, as they love hiking, hunting, and swimming. In addition, they are a very bright, sensitive, friendly, and loving dog breed. 

They have an average shedding level, but you must groom their coats frequently (not every day). Apart from that, they have a medium coat length and a wiry coat type.

Quick facts: 

  • Average sizes: 
  • Height: 23 to 26 inches (male) and 21 to 24 inches (female)
  • Weight: 65 to 80 pounds (male) and 55 to 70 pounds (female)
  • Life expectancy: 10 to 13 years

4. Australian Terrier

an australian terrier standing in a grass ground

Have you seen the Australian Terrier? They are extremely cute and fluffy companions. 

But it’s a courageous, affectionate, spirited, and tough dog. We know this fact will make you crazy, but they prefer hunting snakes and rats. Generally, they are very caring with family and other dogs. 

Their coats have a very low shedding level, and you can follow monthly grooming sessions. Also, their coat types are wiry and short coat lengths. 

Quick facts: 

  • Average sizes: 
  • Height: 10 to 11 inches 
  • Weight: 15 to 20 pounds 
  • Life expectancy: 11 to 15 years

5. Afghan Hound

Two pictures of Afghan Hound Dog Breed roaming in the grass ground

Afghan Hounds are independent dogs. They originate from Afghanistan. They are one of the costliest dog breeds due to the high maintenance costs. 

But, they are mindful, watchful, good with young children and family, and can be trained easily for your requirements. If you want a dog to guard your kids and family, Afghan Hounds are preferred. 

Next, the Afghan Hound’s shedding level is quite high. Therefore, they require coat grooming frequently or every day. 

This type of dog breed has a silky and long blonde fur coat. 

Quick facts: 

  • Average sizes: 
  • Height: 25 to 27 inches 
  • Weight: 50 to 60 pounds 
  • Life expectancy: 12 to 18 years

See how much does a Afghan Hound dog breed cost.


6. Chow Chow

A chow chow dog lying in a grassy field

Do you prefer a dog with an attitude? Well, the Chow Chow is your choice there! 

The Chow Chow has deep-set almond eyes with a snobbish expression. Also, they are known as the “cleanest of dogs” among the dog lovers. 

They love spending time with families and children. But playing with other dogs is their least favorite. 

These dogs have an average shedding and coat brushing frequency. However, their coat types vary from smooth to rough to double. They have a medium coat length. 

Quick facts: 

  • Average sizes: 
  • Height: 17 to 20 inches
  • Weight: 45 to 70 pounds 
  • Life expectancy: 8 to 12 years

See how much does a Chow Chow dog breed cost.


7. Chihuahua

a chihuahua running on the grass ground

Do you want a dog with a charming personality? Then, consider buying an adorable Chihuahua. 

They are sassy and are popular breeds for their small stature and blonde-colored coats. Chihuahuas make wonderful companions, exemplifying traits such as loyalty, protective instincts, and a lively personality. 

The only potential problem area is that they may face health concerns such as eye problems, luxating patellas, and hydrocephalus. 

Do they shed a lot? No, their coats shed a little, but you must brush it frequently for proper maintenance. 

Chihuahua’s coat length can vary between short to medium. Hence, they have a smooth coat type. 

Get to know more coat colors of Chihuahua dog breed.

Quick facts: 

  • Average sizes: 
  • Height: 5 to 8 inches inches 
  • Weight: Less than 6 pounds 
  • Life expectancy: 14 to 16 years

See how much does a Chihuahua dog breed cost. And get a best training collar for your chihuahua.


8. Bull Mastiff

a bull mastiff standing on a grass ground

At first glance, the Bull Mastiff will not immediately grab your attention, but their look could be intimidating. 

In the past, they were used as guard dogs. However, times have changed, and their role has evolved further. 

Recently, dog owners have preferred to keep them as loving pets. They are loyal, brave, and affectionate. You can find them in different colors such as fawn, fawn brindle, red, red brindle, red fawn, and red fawn brindle. 

Bull Mastiffs have an average shedding level. So, you can groom the coat once every month. 

Their coats are very smooth and short. 

Quick facts: 

  • Average sizes: 
  • Height: 25 to 27 inches (male) and 24 to 26 inches (female)
  • Weight: 110 to 130 pounds (male) and 100 to 120 pounds (female)
  • Life expectancy: 7 to 9 years

9. Bichon Frise

a bichon frise lying on a grass ground

Have you seen this light yellow or white-haired beauty? The Bichon Frise is a fluffy and beautiful dog breed and is extremely cute. 

Not just that, they are curious, peppy, and have playful personalities. The exciting fact is that these dogs have very low shedding rates. Therefore, you can follow monthly coat groomings. 

What are their coat types? They have a silky but curly outer coat with a soft undercoat, giving them a ‘powder-puff’ look. 

Quick facts: 

  • Average sizes: 
  • Height: 9.5 to 11.5 inches 
  • Weight: 12 to 18 pounds 
  • Life expectancy: 14 to 15 years

10. Maltese

a maltese sitting on a rock

Are you looking for a charming dog? Then, Maltese dogs are the best choice. 

Maltese are very friendly. Generally, they are cooperative with their owners. But, they have a key advantage. Maltese doesn’t shed at all. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t groom their coats frequently. 

You can give them a quick haircut every month and consider brushing frequently to avoid matting. They have a silky coat. 

They are very affectionate and good with your family. 

Quick facts: 

  • Average sizes: 
  • Height: 7 to 9 inches 
  • Weight: Below 7 pounds 
  • Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years

See how much does a Maltese dog breed cost.


11. Cocker Spaniel

a cocker spaniel lying on a flower field

Seeking a sporting dog? Well, a Cocker Spaniel is your best option. They love to play with other people and are great players themselves. 

But, if you have them as a player, you must make them follow and maintain proper exercise routines. 

They are also smart, gentle, and happy dog breeds. Cocker Spaniels have an average shedding level, and you must make sure to brush the coat frequently. 

Their coat texture is of double and silky type. But they have long coat lengths. 

Quick facts: 

  • Average sizes: 
  • Height: 14.5 to 15.5 inches (male) and 13.5 to 14.5 inches (female)
  • Weight: 25 to 30 pounds (male) and 20 to 25 pounds (female)
  • Life expectancy: 10 to 14 years

See how much does a Cocker Spaniel dog breed cost.


12. Barbet

Two images of a brown Barbet dog breed seated on a chair

Do you want a Poodle-like pup? The Barbet is one of them. They are dark-furred dogs. You can use them for hunting as well. 

Indeed, they are very smart, friendly, and sweet-natured. Barbets have low shedding rates to save you from frequent grooming. 

But, they have curly fur like Poodles and wavy coat types. Their coat length can vary from medium to long. 

Quick facts: 

  • Average sizes: 
  • Height: 19 to 24.5 inches
  • Weight: 35 to 65 pounds 
  • Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years

13. Pomeranian

A cute white Pomeranian sitting on a grass field

Did you know Pomeranians have a variety of colors? Yet, you would have seen them in their common color, such as beige or blonde fur. 

What are their personality types? They are curious, lively, bold, fierce, never give up fighting, and they are definitely not the shy type. What is their shedding rate? Their hair sheds everywhere!

They have a double coat type and long coat length, and they need more maintenance work.

Quick facts: 

  • Average sizes: 
  • Height: 6 to 7 inches 
  • Weight: 3 to 7 pounds 
  • Life expectancy: 12 to 16 years

14. Pharaoh Hound

three Pharaoh Hounds standing on a grass ground outside

Do you like friendly and intelligent dogs? Then, the Pharaoh Hound is your go-to option. 

They have a history! The Pharaoh Hound was used in ancient Egypt to guard the pharaoh’s palace and ground. So, they are very protective but affectionate, smart, notable, and love spending family time. 

But Pharaoh Hounds are more of the hunting type! Yet, they are considered perfect companions resembling royalty and nobility. 

Pharaoh Hound’s coat shed due to their smooth coat type. So, you need to maintain weekly brushing. 

Quick facts: 

  • Average sizes: 
  • Height: 23 to 25 inches (male) and 21 to 24 inches (female)
  • Weight: 45 to 55 pounds 
  • Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years

15. English Cocker Spaniel

An English Cocker Spaniel holding a stick in its mouth

The English Cocker Spaniel comes in a variety of color types. They have a handful of colors, such as stunning beige variations. 

What’s special about the English Cocker Spaniel? They are loving dogs, protective, affectionate, and adventurous. Moreover, they have a very low shedding level, so coat brushing frequency is less. 

But their coat type is double, and the length varies between medium and long.

Quick facts: 

  • Average sizes: 
  • Height: 16 to 17 inches (male) and 15 to 16 inches (female)
  • Weight: 28 to 34 pounds (male) and 26 to 32 pounds (female)
  • Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years

This dog breed would be a wonderful companion to you and your family. 


16. Great Pyrenees

a Great Pyrenees lying on a grass field

One of the deceptive aspects of the Great Pyrenees is their size and coloring, as they look like Golden Retrievers. 

Not only the looks but the personality traits are also similar to those of a Golden Retriever. The Great Pyrenees are very personable dogs: patient, calm, loving, and intelligent. These make them very good family pets.

Shedding-wise, you need to follow well-organized brushing and grooming. Their coat is very fluffy, giving room for knots. 

Quick facts: 

  • Average sizes: 
  • Height: 27 to 32 inches (male) and 25 to 29 inches (female)
  • Weight: 100 pounds & above (male) and 85 pounds & above (female)
  • Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years

They have a medium coat length and double coat type. 


What Are Mixed Breed Blonde Dogs?

several types of mixed breed blonde dogs

These dogs are mixed with different breeds and are referred to as hybrid or designer dogs.

What is special about them? They have a beautiful blonde coat, but they are difficult to find! Of Course, mixed-breed blonde dogs are less popular. 

How do you predict the birth of a mixed-breed blonde dog? Well, you can only expect it after the birth of the specific dog. 

Here are some examples of mixed breed blonde dogs: Airedoodle, Akitador, Cadoodle, Cavapoo, Cockapoo, Cheagle, Cockalier, Corgipoo, Daug, Foodle, Frengle, Goldendoodle, Havapoo, Labradoodle, Maltipom, Maltipoo, Morkie, Papimo, Pomapoo, Pomchi, Pyrador, Scoodle, Sheltidoodle, and Whoodle. 

That said, there are some drawbacks associated with this dog breed. They can exhibit undesirable behavior on rare occasions and may not always be bred ethically.

Personality of Blonde Dog Breeds

Blonde dog breeds exude elegance and allure. 

They are exceptional partners in performing a wide range of activities- from field activities to providing unwavering loyalty and support to their owners. 

Blonde dogs have a spirited, loving, and playful personality.

Are their qualities limited to their charm and beauty? No, they are brave and courageous. 

How to Care for Blonde Dogs?

several types of blonde dog breeds

You need to do a good deal of grooming and take care of their blonde coats.

So, here are the top tips to take care of the fluffy coat:

  • Protect from the sun: If your dog prefers a sunbath, you can allow it to soak in the sun’s rays. But make sure to provide dog-friendly sunscreen during outdoor activities. Alternatively, you can keep them in shady areas. The sun’s rays will give your blonde dog more glow and shine to pale coats. 
  • Regular brushing of blonde coat: Make sure to brush the blonde beauty regularly. It helps to detach tangled dog’s hair. When you untangle, the natural oils in its hair are distributed uniformly. With better grooming habits and routine brushing, your dog’s coat will be well-maintained and look beautiful.
  • Bathe regularly: You can use a specialized blonde dog shampoo for regular bathing. Such shampoo enhances the natural color and looks. Also, bathing blonde dogs frees the pup from infections and germs and keeps its coat clean and beautiful. 

Other guides and tools you might need when training your dog:

Final Thoughts

Blonde dogs are exceptional companions, known for their unique texture, color, fur, and affectionate nature. 

Some blonde dog breeds specialize in cuddles and excel as companions and guardians. The shedding levels and grooming styles vary based on the breed.

Now, considering the 16 blonde dog breeds discussed, which one is your favorite?

FAQs

Many breeds of dogs, such as Chow Chow, Samoyed, Golden Retriever, and American Pitbull Terrier & more, possess blonde fur.

Yes, a dog with Golden hair is considered a Blonde dog.

No, dogs cannot see the color Blonde; however, Blonde dogs can only see colors in the blue and yellow spectrum.

Blonde hair color refers to light but not whitish blond. It doesn’t have the traces of red, gold and brown.

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Author
Laura Vinzy
Laura Vinzy is one of our contributors. She is also a certified professional dog trainer & currently lives in San Francisco with her husband and her two rescue dogs.

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