10 Dog Breeds that Evolve in Size, Color, and Fur as They Grow Up

Did you know some breeds have a bit of a “shape-shifting” trick up their paws? Yes, certain dog breeds undergo fascinating changes in size, color, and fur texture after adulting. From hairy coats to dramatic size changes, these breeds keep the owners guessing. Let’s look at ten dogs with surprising transformations.

Poodle

Curly from the get-go, poodles come with a twist. As Poodles grow, their coats usually change shade and texture, sometimes shifting from soft puppy fluff to tight curls. Even the color can fade or darken! You’ll never know exactly what shade or style a poodle will settle on. Interesting, isn’t it?

Labrador Retriever

Next up are the lovable balls of energy! While the breed may not see a shift in hair too much, the size is a whole different story. These pups are very small but quickly sprout into hefty, muscular adults. Don’t be fooled by that puppy face—Labrador Retrievers will outgrow your lap sooner than you think!

Siberian Husky

Look at these adventurers! Husky puppies often begin with deep shades that may gradually lighten when they grow. Their size also skyrockets, and their famously dense fur changes, especially around the face. Those early eye masks? Sometimes, they vanish completely, leaving a new look.

German Shepherd

Small, fuzzy, and oh-so-cute at first, German Shepherds rapidly gain both muscle and size. And the color? It can change, too! Some start as sable or tan, only to darken or develop richer markings over time. Talk about growing into one’s true colors.

Golden Retriever

Golden fluffballs today, stunning golden beauties tomorrow. Goldens initially have light, soft fur, which deepens in color and grows thicker over time. What begins as a pale gold can turn into a rich, lustrous coat, much like a golden sunset, giving them the ultimate golden glow-up.

Dalmatian

Dalmatians are born spotless. Yes, these pups come into the world with pure white coats, and their signature spots only appear after the dogs grow up. Over time, these dogs develop the iconic black or liver spots we all recognize. Spot by spot, the Dalmatians reveal their true selves.

Shih Tzu

Who knew a Shih Tzu could be a chameleon? Starting as tiny bundles of hair, Shih Tzus often lighten in color as they age. Black or dark spots can fade into cream or silver, and their hair transitions into a longer, silkier coat. It’s like a puppy-to-princess transformation.

Old English Sheepdog

These dogs are almost unrecognizable as puppers, with a transformation that’s quite remarkable. Born with a shorter, softer coat, Old English Sheepdogs soon grow into a thick, shaggy fur that becomes a staple of the breed. The colors also shift, with some puppies developing white patches that blend into grey over time.

Bernese Mountain Dog

With big fur and huge paws, Bernese Mountain Dogs give a huge hint about their future size. The tri-colored coats can deepen as they grow, with blacks becoming richer and tans more vibrant. Plus, their fur becomes denser and longer, suited to the dog’s strong frame.

Bearded Collie

Bearded Collie pups are surprisingly sleek at birth. Their coats don’t develop that classic long, shaggy look until later. These Collies are born with a short coat that gradually grows into the iconic length. Mostly, their colors soften or change as well, making them look entirely different as adults!