The Most Sought-After Coat Colors Right Now by Breed
Coat color trends shift quickly — especially in the poodle and doodle world where genetics allow for enormous variety. Here is what buyers are actively searching for in 2026 across the most popular breeds.
Poodles
Poodles remain the most genetically diverse breed, and demand has shifted toward pattern and depth over simple solid coats.
Top colors right now:
- Deep red — consistently the most searched poodle color; darker, more saturated reds command a significant premium
- Apricot — a perennial classic; lighter than red but still warm-toned
- Phantom — black with tan point markings; increasingly popular as buyers discover them
- Parti — white-based with color patches; growing rapidly in demand
- Blue — a dilute black that appears silver-blue; rarer and highly sought after
Goldendoodles
Goldendoodle buyers tend to lean toward warm, light coats — but the market is diversifying fast.
Top colors right now:
- Red and apricot — still #1 in most markets; buyers want the "teddy bear" look
- Cream — clean, light, and highly photogenic; very popular with first-time dog owners
- Parti — white-based with color; growing trend as breeders introduce poodle parti genetics
- Tuxedo — black and white with specific marking placement; visually striking and increasingly requested
- Phantom/Tri — newer to the goldendoodle market but gaining fast traction
Bernedoodles
Bernedoodle buyers are typically buying for the Bernese Mountain Dog look — and color is a huge part of that.
Top colors right now:
- Tri-color — the classic Bernese look with black, white, and rust; the most requested Bernedoodle pattern by far
- Phantom — a simpler two-tone version that appeals to buyers wanting the Berner look without heavy white
- Merle — visually striking; commands a premium but requires responsible breeding (never merle-to-merle)
- Sable — a softer, fading pattern that often resembles a classic Bernese as a puppy
French Bulldogs
French Bulldogs have one of the most trend-driven color markets of any breed. Exotic colors carry significant price premiums.
Top colors right now:
- Lilac — a diluted chocolate that appears lavender; one of the rarest and most expensive Frenchie colors
- Blue — dilute black; cool-toned and consistently in high demand
- Merle — dramatic patterning that commands premium pricing; must be bred responsibly
- Tan points (Phantom) — rust markings on black, blue, or lilac base; highly requested
- Isabella — an extreme dilution of chocolate; very rare and extremely sought after
What Is Driving These Trends?
Social Media Visibility
Instagram and TikTok have a massive influence on which colors buyers request. A single viral post of a lilac Frenchie or a deep-red poodle can spike inquiries for months.
Rarity Premium
Buyers are willing to pay significantly more for colors that feel exclusive. Breeders who can produce verified rare colors — with genetic proof — command premium prices.
Genetic Transparency
Buyers are increasingly educated. They want to know that a stud or dam has been DNA tested and that the breeder can actually predict and guarantee color outcomes.
For Breeders: What This Means
If your breeding program consistently produces in-demand colors, showcase that clearly in your stud listings. Include genetic panel results, expected color outcomes, and photos of previous litters. Buyers searching for specific colors will find you — and pay for the certainty you provide.