Liver & White Colored Dogs

Liver-colored dog lovers have plenty of breeds to choose from. True liver-colored dogs have liver-colored noses and paw pads, along with light brown or amber eyes. A dog might appear to be liver-colored, but black noses or paw pads reveal that's not the "real" coloring.

  1. Liver Genetics

    • In order for a dog to have liver coloration, he must possess the recessive bb phenotype. He might be born to black parents, if both carry the liver gene. "Chocolate" Labrador retrievers are actually liver, although they do not have white markings. Many liver-and-white colored dogs have ticking, those small, liver spots in the white areas. Liver-and-white coloration is often found in bird-hunting dogs, many of whom make good family pets.

    Bird Dogs

    • Among the liver-and-white spaniels are the Brittany, standing between 17 and 21 inches tall and weighing between 30 and 40 pounds; the English cocker spaniel, standing between 15 and 21 inches tall and weighing between 20 and 30 pounds; the English pointer, standing between 21 and 24 inches tall and weighing between 45 and 75 pounds; the English springer spaniel, standing between 18 to 21 inches tall and weighing between 40 and 50 pounds; the German short-haired pointer, standing between 21 to 25 inches tall and weighing between 45 and 70 pounds, and the German wire-haired pointer, standing between 22 to 26 inches tall and weighing between 55 and 70 pounds. Other bird dogs boast solid liver coats.

    Dalmatian

    • Even people who don't know much about dogs can identify Dalmatians. However, this most famous spotted breed doesn't only appear in black-and-white. The American Kennel Club breed standard permits liver-and-white Dals. No matter the color, remember that Dalmatians need a lot of exercise. Originally bred to follow horses and coaches, they were designed to run all day. Dalmatians mature between 19 and 23 inches tall, weighing between 35 and 70 pounds, with males considerably larger than females.

    Shih Tzu

    • If you're looking for a small, non-sporting liver-and-white dog, consider the Shih Tzu. Weighing less than 16 pounds and standing between 8 and 11 inches high at the shoulder when full-grown, the lovable Shih Tzu makes a fine companion. While Shih Tzus do require regular sessions at the groomer, they don't need a lot of exercise and are suitable for city living.

    Other Dogs

    • It's certainly possible for mixed-breed dogs to have liver-and-white coloring, as long as they carry the liver gene. Many dogs, mixed or purebred, might appear to be liver-and-white but, without the brown nose and pads, are really brown or red. As the Dog Coat Colour Genetics website points out, it's often difficult to tell liver and red apart.