Black dogs get a bad rap—literally. Studies show they’re adopted less often just because of their color. Wild, right?
But here’s the plot twist: Black hound dogs are absolute gems. Sleek, loyal, and packed with personality, they’re built for more than just looking cool.
Have you ever tried sneaking a snack around one? Good luck. These hounds have noses so sharp, they could sniff out a potato chip in a hurricane.
From lazy Sunday cuddles to full-on backyard zoomies, black hounds know how to match your vibe. Whether you’re couch-bound or trail-happy, they’re down.
So if you’re looking for a family-friendly dog that’s equal parts stylish and sweet, you’re in for a treat. Let’s meet seven blackhound dogs that’ll steal your heart (and maybe your socks).
7 Black Hound Dog Breeds
1. Afghan Hound
Ah yes, the drama queen of hounds—with fur that puts shampoo commercials to shame. Afghan Hounds look like they came straight from a runway and act like it too. But don’t be fooled by the flowy shaggy coat, they’ve got a long history of guarding, chasing, and looking fabulous while doing it.
AKC mentions that originally bred in the Middle East to hunt big game, this dog’s got a keen sense of sight and a strong ego. They’re fast, smart, and suspicious of strangers—great traits for a watchful guardian.
Train them? Well, good luck. Their independent streak means they listen—when it suits them. Think of it as living with a supermodel who knows karate.
Afghans need regular grooming unless you want their hair to look like a tumbleweed convention. And yes, they come in black—and black-and-tan if you’re lucky.
They’re surprisingly low-maintenance when it comes to food—they eat basic, balanced meals with an occasional pumpkin seed snack. While they love their people, don’t expect them to fawn over other dogs. Royalty doesn’t mingle with the peasants, darling.
Bonus: they have expressive eyes that say, “I love you,” and “You bore me,” all in the same glance.
2. Azawakh
Ever seen a dog that looks like it was carved from marble and runs like Wi-Fi on steroids? That’s the Azawakh. With roots in the Middle East and Africa, they were originally bred to hunt big game—and flex while doing it.
They’re energetic dogs with a serious job vibe—always alert, lean, and a little judgy. Perfect for guarding your home or your snack stash.
Training? Meh. They’ve got brains, but they’re not into people-pleasing. Their independent streak says, “I’ll sit… if I feel like it.”
Coat-wise, they’re the opposite of high-maintenance. Short, fine, and sleek—a low-maintenance dream. Their diet? Keep it lean and clean. Think muscle fuel, not muffin crumbs. Maybe toss in those pumpkin seeds for bonus points.
They bond tight with family members, but don’t expect cuddles from the jump—they’re more bodyguards than teddy bears.
Fun fact: They’re one of the few hounds that will give side-eye and guard your door like it’s a royal vault.
3. Plott Hound
Meet the American Kennel Club-recognized hound with roots in medieval England and hunt wolves on their resume. Plotts aren’t here to play—they’re here to patrol, protect, and possibly chase a squirrel up a mountain.
PetMD claims that with their bold attitude and keen sense of smell, their scent hounds through and through. Bonus: they don’t just bark—they drop a unique sound that screams, “Back off.”
These dogs are all muscle and mission. They need mental stimulation, exercise, and a job—or they’ll invent one involving your couch cushions. Training them? Totally doable—as long as you show who’s boss early on. They’re smart, but not fans of indecisiveness.
Their short coat is easy to care for. Just brush occasionally and admire their rugged good looks in those bold black and tan colors. Feeding? High-protein diets work best—these pups are always in athlete mode.
Fun trivia: They’ve got droopy ears, a no-nonsense stare, and a work ethic that’ll make you feel lazy.
4. Greyhound
Surprise—couch potatoes make solid guards too. Greyhounds: elite sprinters on the track, absolute loafers at home. But don’t mistake chill for soft—when it’s gone time, it’s lure-coursing champion speed.
Originally bred for hunting in medieval England, they’ve got keen eyesight that catches movement before your doorbell even rings. Strangers? Not fans.
They’re mild-mannered with family members, but when they sense weird energy, their inner watchdog switches on. Training’s a breeze—they’re smart, sensitive, and want to get things right. Just skip the drama—they don’t do harsh vibes.
Their short coat is ridiculously easy to manage. Weekly brush, occasional bath, done. Black is a classic, but they rock plenty of colors. Keep meals balanced—they stay lean, and that means no sneaking table scraps. Unless you want side-eye.
Bonus: Their expressive eyes can melt hearts… and warn intruders with one icy stare.
5. Saluki
If a supermodel and a ninja had a dog, it’d be the Saluki. Elegant, aloof, and faster than your Wi-Fi, this hound has a long history of hunting in the Middle East. They were bred to hunt—and look better than you while doing it.
Salukis are quiet, lean, and highly alert. Not barky, but they don’t miss a thing. Think of them as the barkless dog who judges in silence. Purina reports that they need mental stimulation and space to sprint—or your backyard becomes their personal racetrack.
Training? They’re smart, but also, “Why should I?” You’ll need patience and snacks. Their long coats come in smooth or feathered varieties. Black’s a stunner, but they serve looks in multiple shades.
As for diet—clean, high-protein meals keep them sharp. Bonus points for healthy fats to stay healthy and stylish.
Fun fact: Egyptian royalty once adored them. Today, they guard homes—and their personal bubble.
6. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is basically a gentle giant with a gladiator past. Originally bred to hunt wolves and protect estates, they’re more intimidating than aggressive. Think “I could crush you, but I choose peace.”
Despite their size, they’re affectionate and loyal to family members—but strangers? They’ll monitor from afar like a shaggy bodyguard.
They’ve got a sweet disposition, but give them daily exercise unless you want all that power aimed at your flower beds. Training’s pretty smooth—they aim to please, just not at warp speed. Be calm, clear, and ready with treats.
Their shaggy coat needs regular brushing and the occasional spa day. Black ones are rare, but majestic. Diet? Big dog, big portions. Think balanced meals with joint-friendly nutrients to stay healthy.
Weird flex: Despite being massive, they think they’re lap dogs. You’ve been warned.
7. Otterhound
This one’s got floppy ears, a unique sound, and the energy of a toddler on espresso. Originally bred to hunt otters (yes, really), the Otterhound is rare, wild-looking, and all about that adventure life.
WebMD reveals that they’re loud, goofy, and water-obsessed. If your backyard has a pond, prepare for splash zone chaos.
Great with other dogs and small animals—if raised together. But they do have a prey drive, so maybe don’t test it with your pet hamster. Training takes time—they’re smart but easily distracted. Squirrels? Total nemesis.
That shaggy coat is waterproof and gloriously messy. It needs brushing, washing, and possibly its vacuum. Feeding-wise? Quality food, portion control, and yes—skip the table scraps. They’ll eat anything.
Fun fact: They’re part clown, part detective, and always 100% ready to ruin a clean floor.
Final Verdict
So, what have we learned? Blackhound dogs aren’t just stunning—they’re loyal, clever, and secretly hilarious. Whether you want a quiet guardian or a sprinting snuggle bug, there’s a sleek pup out there for you.
From the lightning-fast Greyhound to the drama-ready Afghan, each hound has its distinct ability to charm, protect, and occasionally steal your socks. Most hounds aren’t just about looks—they’ve got brains, hearts, and a love for long walks.
Still, shopping around? Don’t overlook the Black and Tan Coonhounds, Tan Coonhounds, or the mysterious Pharaoh Hounds—all equally stylish hunting dogs with serious street cred.
And let’s not forget the noble Russian Wolfhound, the rugged Rhodesian Ridgeback, or the scruffy Scottish Deerhound. Even the cheerful Beagle and the devoted American Foxhound deserve a nod.
Hounds share more than floppy ears and friendly dispositions—they bring joy and loyalty, and help you stay happy (even if your male dog thinks he owns the couch).
Ready to meet your match? Drop a comment, share your favorite, or tag a friend who needs a hound in their life. The right companion might just be one paw away.
