Believe it or not, dogs can have a variety of nose colors, and some pups are lucky enough to sport adorable red or pink noses that instantly make them stand out. While most dogs have black or brown noses, these special red-nosed and pink-nosed dog breeds have a Rudolph-like charm that feels perfectly festive, especially during the holiday season. With their bright nose, sparkling eyes, and in some cases, rich, warm-colored coats, these pups are natural holiday dogs who bring joy and cheer to any home. Whether they’re greeting family at the door, playing in the snow, or simply cuddling by the fire, these dogs with pinkish red noses are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. To celebrate the countdown to Christmas, we’ve rounded up 6 dog breeds with noses like Rudolph, each one as adorable, playful and festive as the season itself.

“Red and pink noses are normal for certain breeds of dog and will be present from puppyhood,” says Liza Cahn, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance. She notes that some pups also have a benign (meaning, not harmful) condition called “snow nose,” where a their nose color may lighten during the winter. While a red or pink nose can just be part of a dog’s unique appearance, it’s important to keep an eye out for changes in the color or appearance of your dog’s nose, as that can be a sign of health conditions that your vet needs to check out.

While technically, any pocket-sized pup or large dog can have or develop a red or pink nose, these dog breeds with unique features stand out in the best ways. If you love the idea of having a dog breed with an unusual nose color, consider one of these pretty breeds below. Some are popular dog breeds, while others are more rare breeds—but either way, they make amazing pets for families, singles, or anyone looking to add a touch of joy to their home. With their festive, Rudolph-like looks, these pink-nosed dogs are practically made for the holiday season, and we’re sure Santa would approve of bringing one of these lovable pups into your family.

Related: 200+ Winter Dog Names That Sleigh All Season

6 Dog Breeds With Pink & Red Noses

These unique dog breeds are truly one-of-a-kind. With their Rudolph-like appearance and festive coloring, each adorable dog breed is full of personality and makes a joyful addition to any home.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a charming dog breed that can sometimes have a reddish-pink nose, giving them a festive, Rudolph-like appearance. This unique coloring, combined with their bright amber eyes and striking red coat, makes them one of the most eye-catching dog breeds with red or pink noses.

Beyond their holiday-ready looks, Tollers are intelligent, energetic and affectionate, making them excellent companions for active families. They thrive on play, mental stimulation, and outdoor activities, and their loyal, friendly nature means they quickly bond with their humans. “These playful dogs love to spend time with their family and can be a constant source of entertainment,” Cahn says. If you’re looking for a devoted dog breed with a red or pink nose that’s both adorable and loving, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a standout choice.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Smart, energetic

Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are smart, playful pups that sometimes sport a pink nose, making them look a little like a furry holiday helper. Their noses stand out against their gorgeous coats and sparkling eyes, giving them a festive, Rudolph-like vibe. These pups aren’t just cute—they’re great companions, fun-loving and full of energy, making them perfect for families or anyone who loves an active, affectionate companion.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Loyal, intelligent, acitve

Related: These 5 Affectionate Dog Breeds Are Practically Made for Hugging

Pointer

This high-energy dog can also have a pink or red nose. Pointers regularly put that nose to good use, regardless of color. “Pointers are a group of gundogs that stop and ‘point’ with their body, nose and tail when they locate game birds,” Cahn says.

There are several types of Pointers, including the Vizsla. “This breed is typically friendly, affectionate, and people-oriented, although it requires a significant amount of daily exercise,” Cahn says.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Loyal, hard-working, eager to please

Dalmatian

Another one of the best dogs to have as a pet that also has a unique nose? Dalmatians! They can have red-tinted noses or pink-spotted noses, especially as puppies. While many will go on to develop dark black as they get older, some will keep that adorable pink shade or have a nose with a reddish-brown tone.

Dalmatians also have a signature spotted coat, making them hard to miss in a dog park crowd. This breed is high-energy and loves to be active, according to Julie Hunt, DVM, a veterinarian contributor at Embrace Pet Insurance. They’re also friendly to strangers, although they never waver in devotion to their owners. While your Dalmatian is happy to go on runs and hikes with you, this breed is also smart—and easy to train as a result.

Breed Stats

• Personality: dignified, outgoing, smart

Brittany

Like many other pretty and unique dog breeds on this list, the Brittany can have a pink or reddish nose at birth that stays that color or turns darker over time. This medium-sized pup has a bird hunting past and loves to be active, according to Hunt.

THese dog breeds with pink noses are friendly with just about anyone that crosses their path, and they’re incredibly smart, too. Whether your Brittany has a pink or red nose or not, you can expect your pup to be playful and eager to please, per Hunt. “They are obedient dogs and easy to train, too,” Hunt says.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Bright, fun-loving, upbeat

White German Shepherd

While the classic black and tan coat is the most well-known German Shepherd fur color, this breed’s coat comes in a wide range of shades, including gray and white. Lighter-colored German Shepherds are more prone to having a pink nose or developing “snow nose” when it’s cold out, which can give it a reddish tint.

These dog breeds with pink noses are well known for their intelligence, which is why they are often used as police dogs. Regardless of coat or nose color, German Shepherds also have high energy levels, so expect to make regular trips to the dog park if you have one of these pooches. But they’re also easy to train and enjoy a lot of mental stimulation. If you are able to give your German Shepherd a lot of dog puzzles and exercise, you should be good to go.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Courageous, confident, smart

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This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Dec 21, 2025, where it first appeared in the Dogs section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.