25 Gray Dog Breeds (With Pictures)
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When you see a gray dog, it can take you by surprise. Since they are one of the rarer colors in some breeds, it’s a sight to behold. Coat color is fascinating when it comes to how it develops in various dogs. With colors such as liver, blue (gray), or isabella, there is a pigment called eumelanin that is responsible.
Since structure and temperament can change so drastically between breeds that share the same basic color, it’s interesting to observe just how radical those changes can be. We rounded up 25 different dogs who have one thing in common: gray coats. Enjoy!
The 25 Gray Dog Breeds:
1. Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a big brute of mass proportions. They have wrinkles, drooping jowls, and a ton of slobber. While they may look like a wise, easy-going loaf, they are somewhat aloof and indifferent. They tend to adore their families but selective with strangers. They aren’t inherently aggressive, but they can be shy or suspicious—keeping a watchful eye.
2. Weimaraner
If you have a ton of energy to burn, having a Weimaraner may be the ideal dog for you. They love to play or work most of the time. They have athletic, sturdy frames. They can be stubborn and resistant to doing things at your request, so a firm hand is necessary. They can be amiable dogs and do well with children since they match their exuberant energy so well.
3. American Pitbull Terrier
American Pit Bull Terriers are notoriously goofy, fun-loving, and incredibly snuggly. They thrive on affection from their families and want nothing more than to be a part of things. However, they are also infamous for not always getting along with other pets, dogs included. So, having them around as many different creatures early on is essential to shape their social behavior.
4. American Bully
The American Bully is a stout breed with a muscly, tough exterior. Inside, however, they’re loving and happy-go-lucky, deemed one of the friendliest of all the bully breeds. While these silly big guys are peaceful and quite lazy, they won’t hesitate to act if someone is trying to hurt someone they love.
5. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are quite the craze these days. They come in many impressive colors—gray being just one of several. They make excellent companion animals, as they are very friendly with pets, strangers, and children. They love everyone, and while they may bark to alert if someone is near—they won’t do much but wag their stubby tails at an intruder.
6. Great Dane
Great Danes may be intimidating because they’re so gigantic, but these guys are gentle giants and exceptionally social. You want to be a seasoned owner before opting to buy one. As puppies, they grow very quickly and don’t know just how big they are. Their clumsiness can be hard to manage, so patience with training is essential.
7. Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is a goofball, adorably gray and white. They were bred to be herding dogs and still carry much of that instinct in them today. They have been known to try and herd owners or children by nudging them gently. They are exceptionally relaxed and comfortable going, never getting too worked up about much.
8. Greyhound
When you think of a greyhound, you may associate them with racing. This breed is highly revered for its agility and speed. However, aside from their racetrack reputation, these dogs are incredibly docile, shy, and even backward. They may enjoy spurts of intense play, but they are entirely willing to relax for a nap afterward.
9. Blue Lacy
The Blue Lacy dog is bred for work, work, and more work. For this reason, these dogs need constant stimulation in the form of training, tasks, play, or games. When bored, they become destructive, and they may even show aggression. However, if you are athletic or have a lot of activities to stimulate this breed, they will make a wonderful companion.
10. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is known for its refined grace and large proportions. They have extremely docile temperaments. Despite their size, they are gentle and patient with children. They are also pleasant with other animals and tend to be intelligent and trainable.
11. Keeshond
Keeshonds are not only super cute– they’re also a ball of fun. They aren’t aggressive in the slightest. They love to play and fool around and are quick to pick up on tricks. They thrive on approval and only want to be a part of your day. They also have a characteristic where they “smile” by showing their teeth.
12. Cairn Terrier
Cairn Terriers are lively dogs with true peppy terrier personalities. They think they are in charge—and that’s the end of it. That doesn’t mean they aren’t sweethearts when they want to be. They are very loyal and affectionate to their owners. However, they may enjoy chasing around household cats or smaller wildlife outdoors.
13. Alaskan Malamute
Originally sled dogs, Alaskan Malamutes were revered for their strength and endurance. These dogs are incredibly playful and spirited. They have intensely sharp minds and solid wills. They are fiercely loyal, as they are pack animals. Once family, your bond can’t be broken. They don’t so much share this sentiment with strangers and may not do so well with other animals.
14. Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound is a dignified sighthound who is poised in repose. They are quiet, docile, and sensitive. They may not be overwhelmingly lovable toward strangers or other animals, but they are very friendly. This makes them unsuitable to serve as a guard dog but great for frequent company.
15. Pumi
The Pumi is a lively little sprout, ready to play at a moment’s notice. They tend to be very vocal, so if barking isn’t your forte, you may want to reconsider this breed. They tend to be reserved with strangers until they know you. Then, you will be a worthy playmate, and they will elect you as the thrower of their favorite ball.
16. Pyrenean Shepherd
The Pyrenean Shepherd is a bossy little dog who will rule the roost. They show great enthusiasm for positive reinforcement and training, but they don’t respond well to negative criticism or harsh punishments. If you have other animals, these dogs will quickly show them that they are the king or queen of the castle.
17. Carpathian Shepherd Dog
Image Credit: RazvanAWI, ShutterstockThe large and loving Carpathian Shepherd Dog is an excellent guard dog—protecting farm life and households alike. They are very even-tempered and patient, making them ideal caretakers and playmates for kids. While they may like playing, chances are, they will take on a more parental role. They won’t take kindly to being cooped up, so making sure they have room to roam is crucial.
18. Thai Ridgeback
Gaining traction in the Western world, the Thai Ridgeback is a lovely breed. They are sturdy and athletically capable dogs with impressive structure. Because they have been so self-sufficient over time, learning to care for themselves to survive, they have a stubborn nature. They aren’t recommended for novice owners as this grey dog breed requires extensive knowledge.
19. Bergamasco Shepherd
The Bergamasco Shepherd is a unique-looking grey dog who appears to have dreadlocked hair. Their coats are matted, coming in all shades of gray. They are extremely adaptable to outdoor temperatures since their coats protect them. They are highly affectionate, loving, and versatile as companions.
20. Poodle
At the top of the list of smartest dog breeds, the Poodle stands over the rest. They come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. Each of them has quirks that set them apart, but they are typically all very friendly, eager to please, and agreeable dogs. They love to learn and will thrive with obedience or trick training.
21. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a substantial breed that is amongst a list of gentler giants, and is a very big grey dog breed. While some Corsos may show aggressive tendencies due to circumstances or lifestyles, they tend to be rather laid back and calm generally. They won’t take a second to protect their family, but they are otherwise sensible and even indifferent toward outsiders.
22. Whippet
Sometimes confused for an Italian greyhound, the Whippet is a smaller sighthound breed. They are typically timid and incredibly docile. As a result of their disposition, they can become nervous or anxious if they live in an overly aggressive home or receive negative correction. They are exceptionally speedy grey dogs, as most sighthounds are. However, at home, they will love cuddling and frequent naps.
23. Akita
Akita’s sprung out of northern Japan in colder climates. This powerful, noble gray dog breed will need a master exhibiting firm and constant guidance. The Akita is a pack animal and will thrive very much on the hierarchy of the household. These dogs are incredibly intelligent, willful, and eager to learn—making excellent guard dogs.
24. Siberian Husky
Siberian huskies are another original sled dog on our list. They are intensely pack-oriented. They tend to be interestingly mouthy as well. They make all sorts of howls, growls, and noises when they are playing or communicating. While very hyper and potentially destructive, they are fun-loving companions with a happy demeanor.
25. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature schnauzers are devoted grey dogs. They sometimes go one way or another when it comes to barking. Some tend to do it consistently, while others are quite laid back. They are brilliant, picking up on tricks and commands quite quickly. They are obedient, so while they may require training, it should be a breeze.
Conclusion
Even though some of the coat colors of the dogs we mentioned are considered gray, many are referred to as blue. Blue is a color that adds an almost lavender or silver hue to the gray coat. All these dogs are a beautiful shade of gray, from light to dark. As you can see, this color is displayed on many breeds differently, creating a rich spectrum of diversity to admire.
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Feature Image Credit: Pickpik
