10 Dog Breeds That Are Just As Striking As Dalmatians

Dalmatians are known for their striking, sleek white coat covered in bold black or liver-colored spots. However, many other breeds feature unique colorations that range from merle swirls to harlequin patches and dappled speckles. Explore ten dog breeds with equally stunning markings that rival the beauty of the Dalmatian.

Catahoula Leopard Dog

This breed showcases a stunning variety of marbled, spotted, and brindled coat patterns. Catahoulas have blue, green, or amber eyes that sometimes appear in a striking “cracked glass” effect. Their leopard-like markings result from a merle gene. Known for their athleticism and intelligence, Catahoulas were historically used for herding and hunting.

Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd’s merle-patterned coat is truly eye-catching. It comes in blue merle, red merle, black, and red variations, often with copper or white markings. One of their most distinctive features is their heterochromatic eyes, where one eye may be blue and the other brown.

Border Collie

While most people picture Border Collies in black and white, they come in rare and intricate merle, sable, and tri-color variations. Their coats can display unique markings, including facial blazes and split masks. Collies are grouped among the most intelligent dogs, as they excel in obedience and agility.

Great Dane (Harlequin)

Great Danes have a white coat adorned with irregular black patches. Unlike Dalmatians, whose spots are evenly distributed, Harlequin Danes have unpredictable and asymmetrical markings. Their sheer size adds to their visual impact, making them one of the most impressive breeds. Originally bred for hunting boar, they now serve as gentle companions.

Cardigan Welsh Corgi (Brindle and Merle)

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi features uniquely speckled and brindle coats. These smaller herding dogs can carry the merle gene, resulting in a dappled mix of gray, black, and blue hues. Cardigans’ long, bushy tails enhance their charm and differentiate them from their Pembroke counterparts.

Dachshund (Dapple and Piebald)

Dapple Dachshunds have a merle-like coat with swirls of lighter and darker shades, while piebalds display a more symmetrical pattern of white and colored patches. Such distinctive markings enhance their already unique, elongated body shape. This breed is inherently tenacious and charming and was first developed for hunting badgers.

Bluetick Coonhound

A bluetick pattern gives this breed an unmistakable speckled appearance. Their short coat covered in tiny blue-black “ticks” over a white or tan base creates a starry-night effect. Bluetick Coonhounds also have soulful eyes, and they were initially bred for tracking and hunting because of their determination and keen sense of smell.

English Setter

The English Setter has a speckled or “Belton” coat, which features a white base with black, orange, lemon, liver, or blue flecks. Their silky, feathered fur gives them a regal and flowing look. English Setters are also known for their graceful movements, which makes them a mesmerizing sight in motion.

American Cocker Spaniel (Parti-Color Variations)

Parti-color Cockers have a mix of white with patches of black, brown, red, or tan. Long, flowing ears add to their appeal, and a soft, wavy coat adds to their beauty. Though first bred as bird dogs, Cocker Spaniels are now beloved companions known for their playful and affectionate personalities.

Brittany Spaniel

Many Brittanys have distinctive ticking patterns, where small spots of color appear on their legs and faces. Soft and slightly wavy medium-length fur enhances their athletic and elegant look. Brittanys are incredibly agile, intelligent, and highly trainable. The combination of striking coat patterns, lean build, and expressive eyes makes them a endearing breed.