All dogs are natural attention-grabbers, but some breeds stand out more than others. Polka dot dog breeds steal the spotlight thanks to their uniquely patterned coats and adorable looks.
“These spotted dogs aren’t just pretty coats, they’ve got big personalities, too,” says Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert with Rover.
Owning a dog breed with polka dots means you’ll have people oohing and ahhing over your fur baby, all the time so it’s important to consider if you can handle being a celebrity by association. However, if you’re in the market for a head-turning dog, these spotted dog breeds are definitely worth considering.
Dalmatian
These spotted pups tend to be one of the first to come to mind when people think of polka dot breeds. “They’re instantly recognizable for their sleek white coats covered in bold black or liver spots,” Ellis says.
But Dalmatians are so much more than unique looking. “They’re energetic and athletic—they were originally bred to run alongside horse-drawn carriages,” Ellis says. Ashley Reely, a professional dog trainer at Meraki Dogs, agrees that Dalmatians have lots of energy. “They do best in households that can match their stamina,” she says. “They love to move and don’t do well without a job or activity.”
One more thing to consider with Dalmatians, according to Julie Hunt, DVM, Embrace Pet Insurance veterinarian contributor: “They are known for their loyalty.”
Breed Stats
- Personality: dignified, outgoing, smart
- Height: 19-24 inches
- Weight: 45-70 pounds
- Lifespan: 11–13 years
Australian Shepherd
These sweet dogs are known for the distinctive spots or merle markings on their coats. They also may have piercing blue eyes, giving them an overall gorgeous look.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Smart, work-oriented, exuberant
- Height: 18-23 inches
- Weight: 40-65 pounds
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
English Setter
Another dog breed with spots? English Setters! These sleek hunting dogs have spots all over. Ellis describes English Setters as “elegant and graceful with a feathered coat covered in belton spotting, a speckled blend rather than bold spots.”
While English Setters were originally bred to be hunting dogs, this breed is known for its gentle and affectionate nature, Ellis says. In fact, they’re nicknamed the “gentleman of the dog world.” Reely praises English Setters for being social and friendly, too. “They usually get along well with both people and other dogs,” she says. Hunt agrees. “They are affectionate and good-natured pets,” she says.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Friendly, mellow, merry
- Height: 23-27 inches
- Weight: 45-80 pounds
- Lifespan: 12 years
Brittany
Brittanys were originally bred for bird hunting, which is why they’re so agile and athletic. Their coat usually features russet and white, or liver and white coloring, usually with ticking (small spots), Ellis says.
“They’re bright, eager to please, and typically easy to train,” Ellis says. These pets are also warm and affectionate. “Their social aspects are very similar to that of English Setters,” Hunt says. Reely agrees that Brittanys are a spotted dog breed that love their people. “They do best when included in daily life and love to be out doing things with their humans,” she says.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Bright, fun-loving, upbeat
- Height: 17.5-20.5 inches
- Weight: 30-40 pounds
- Lifespan: 12–14 years
Bluetick Coonhound
Bluetick Coonhounds have a unique look that features a mottled blue or black “ticked” coat, along with adorable, floppy ears. Ellis describes this breed as an “incredibly driven scent hound with a strong prey drive and powerful nose.”
This breed tends to be vocal, Reely points out, so a Bluetick Coonhound is probably not a great fit if you live next to others. “They’re affectionate with their families, but can be independent-minded,” Reely says. These pups are high-energy, making them a good fit for active families, according to Hunt.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Devoted, smart, tenacious
- Height: 21-27 inches
- Weight: 45-80 pounds
- Lifespan: 11–12 years
American Hairless Terrier
This little breed has a coat with spots similar to those of Dalmatians, with their own twist. “American Hairless Terriers have a variety of skin colors, and they can develop freckles as they age, similar to sunspots in human skin,” Hunt says.
These small to medium dogs are “energetic and intelligent,” which makes them easy to train, according to Hunt. Reely calls this breed “charming” and “social,” noting that American Hairless Terriers tend to form strong bonds with their families. “They’re typically easy to live with and enjoy being the center of attention,” she adds. However, Hunt says owners of this breed need to keep one thing in mind: “Like other hairless breeds, the American Hairless Terrier may require sunscreen in strong sun.”
Breed Stats
- Personality: Alert, curious, energetic
- Height: 12-16 inches
- Weight: 12-28 pounds
- Lifespan: 14-16 years
Great Dane
These gentle giants don’t always have spots, but some do. That usually comes in the form of merle coloring, which is gray spots of different sizes, Hunt says.
“Danes are giant breed dogs known for their calm behavior and loving, playful demeanor,” Hunt says. Reely also praises their “big, goofy personalities.” Great Danes are usually friendly toward people and kids, and can be good watch dogs, Hunt says. “Danes are typically intelligent and readily trainable,” she adds.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Friendly, patient, dependable
- Height: 28-32 inches
- Weight: 110-175 pounds
- Lifespan: 7-10 years
