15 Brown And Black Dog Breeds

Brown and black is a dominant color in dogs, often featured in some of the most powerful breeds. A mixed brown and black hair is usually caused by the K locus gene, which usually results in a dominant black coat along with brown spots in distinct parts of the body.
The brown and black pattern, usually referred to as black and tan, is not a trait associated with a single breed. Breeders often consider this coat pattern as the standard in breeds like Rottweilers and Doberman.
Today, we discuss 15 dog breeds from around the world that commonly feature this attractive coat color.
1. Rottweiler

Often referred to as black and tan, Rottweilers are renowned for their dominant black and brown coat. The pattern of this coat is primarily due to the presence of genes on the K locus and the agouti (A) locus.
In Rottweilers, their genes allow for black pigments concentrated in regions like their backs, heads, and legs. Meanwhile, the tan points are due to reduced eumelanin production in those specific areas.
Originally bred as working and guard dogs, the striking coat of Rottweilers also has historical significance. Their coat colors made them easily recognizable from a distance, warming off wild animals and potential predators.
2. German Shepherd

German Shepherds are brown and black dogs that were created in the late 19th century. Considered one of the most popular dog breeds, these shepherd canines are widely used as police dogs, support animals, and even houseguards.
The unique black and brown coat in these dogs acts as an insulator, trapping heat in winter and keeping it cool during winter. Besides their intelligence and eye-pleasing appearance, the German Shepherd has powerful physique and erect ears.
The only drawback to this majestic breed is their frequent shedding habit. Groom them regularly to remove any trapped hair; however, never cut their coat or shave them.
3. Dachshund

Originally from Germany, the Dachshund breed has a unique body that is shaped like a sausage, earning them the name sausage dogs. The pup was initially bred to locate and hunt badgers along with several other burrow-dwelling animals.
While there are three varieties of the Dachshund breed, the brown and black coat is usually found in the smooth-coated ones. In addition to the desired coat, these dogs are also available in other coat colors, including black, blue and tan, chocolate and tan, among others.
Although generally well-behaved, this breed is normally wary of strangers and other pets. Also, they tend to show unpredictable behaviors at times, often refusing to go for walks or barking excessively. However, if you're willing to ignore these few shortcomings, the Dachshund is one of the best pets to own.
4. Doberman

Dobermans with black and brown coats are the most frequent color variation in the breed. This highly recognizable color combination is, in fact, the standard color for the breed. Caused by a dominant gene, this attractive pattern is more frequently expressed compared to other coat colors like blue, fawn, or red.
Their black and brown coat not only gives Doberman dogs their iconic look, the combo is also associated with the breed’s strong working and protective lineage. While other colors are possible, they are typically less common and even disqualified from certain dog shows due to breed standards.
5. Manchester Terrier

The Manchester Terrier, a relatively rare breed, was developed by crossbreeding a Whippet dog with a hybrid terrier. The breed is perfect for individuals who love to shower their pets with affection and treats.
However, these dogs can occasionally turn bossy and may even refuse to follow commands given by their masters. However, you can avoid by issue by providing them with proper training and discipline while still young.
The Manchester Terrier is primarily available in black coats, with brown markings spread all over their body. They are low-shedders and only need occasional grooming to keep them neat and tidy.
6. Gordon Setter

The Gordon Setter, a breed from England and Scotland, was first discovered in the early 17th century and mostly used to hunt small games. The breed was initially called the black and tan setter; however, the name was officially changed to Gordon Setter as an honor to the dog-loving fourth Duke of Gordon.
Regarded as the largest setter breed, these dogs have high stamina and intelligence; they can go on for hours without taking a break. While they are not suitable for families with young children, these canines do well in holes with older kids.
Besides, the Gordon Setter also has specific exercise needs to burn off their excess energy. They can get restless when left alone, so it's best to leave them with a human or other familiar pets when humans are not around.
7. Black and Tan Coonhound

As evident from its name, the Black and Tan Coonhound is considered separate from traditional coonhounds. Originally developed in the United States for hunting raccoons and other small game, the dog's appeal lies in its black and brown (coat) that sets it apart from other coonhound varieties.
While generally active, the Black and Tan Coonhound can get lazy at times, occasionally spending hours in the same position. However, a small motivation is enough to get it moving, like a passing squirrel or bird.
In addition to being a brown and black dog, coonhound varieties can also be adopted as Redbone Coonhound, Bluetick Coonhound, and Treeing Walker Coonhound.
8. Beauceron

The Beauceron is a lesser-known breed from France, with a history of several centuries. These dogs normally possess a dense coat of brown and black, and rarely a combination of blue and tan.
One of the unique features of this dog breed is its dewclaws, that are normally on the back legs. Often resembling the human thumb, these claws have bones and muscles that help to provide stability on uneven surfaces and while running at high speed.
In fact, most canine clubs identify these dewclaws as a standard trait; Beaucerons with no dewclaws are often disqualified from the category.
9. Airedale Terrier

In Airedales, the standard coat pattern is defined as a tan base with a black saddle covering the back; this distinct saddle usually extends from the neck to the tail. Besides their signature terrier appearance, the breed is also popular for its low-shedding habit. While they need grooming only once every few months, brush their coats regularly, around once a week, to maintain the shine of their coat and remove dead hair.
Other than the usual black and brown coat, some Airedale Terriers may have a slight variation in their coat, usually a tan or a grizzle pattern instead of the black saddle. While these varieties are rare and not universally accepted, they are still considered variations of the standard black and tan color.
10. Kelpie

Hailing from the land of the kangaroos, the Kelpie was developed as a working dog but has become a famous housedog in its homeland Australia and some parts of Europe. In the US, however, Kelpie is not yet classified as a breed but is included in the broad category of herding dogs.
Although black is usually regarded as the primary color of this breed, black and brown coats are also fairly common. These dogs have evolved to survive in the hot regions of Australia; however, they can also adapt to temperate and colder climates of Europe.
The Kelpie is a relatively cheap breed, costing around $500 to $1600. However, due to selective breeding, some pups fetch a significantly higher price. For instance, in 2022, a single dog named Eve was sold for a massive price of $49,000.
11. English Shepherd

Boasting a water-resistant coat, the English Shepherd dog is built to handle extensive outdoor work in a variety of weather conditions. With versatility in both appearance and working ability, the breed comes in multiple colors and patterns, each unique and pleasing to look at.
The black and brown coat, or black and tan coat, of an English Shepherd consists of a black base coat with tan markings on the face, legs, chest, and underside. The pattern is similar to coats in breeds like Rottweilers or Dobermans; however, the shepherd dog's coat is slightly softer than its counterparts.
Another common coat color for the breed is black and white; the body is predominantly black but with white spots on different parts of the body.
12. Lancashire Heeler

Another tempting example of a black and brown dog, the Lancashire Heeler is usually compared to the Welsh Corgi due to its short stature and long body. Extremely friendly and energetic, these dogs make perfect companions for families.
While these dogs are extremely affectionate and protective towards their family members, their behavior is not the same with strangers. They don't particularly bark or become aggressive at strangers while taking a walk; but, in their territories, they rarely have a friendly approach toward unknown humans or dogs that invade their territory.
Despite their cute looks and affectionate nature, these Heelers are rarely in demand due to the many health risks associated with the breed. However, when proper health care is provided, they can prove to be one of the longest-living dog breeds.
13. Tibetan Mastiff

Considered one of the largest and oldest dog breeds, the Tibetan Mastiff has a thick coat of hair to survive in extremely cold regions. But, despite their thick fur, they don't shed as much as some other breeds. The breed has a unique annual "blowing" where it sheds a massive amount of year, usually in summer or spring.
Tibetan Mastiffs are mostly gentle but they can get aggressive to strangers or other animals due to their protective instinct. In the earlier centuries, these dogs often defended sheep and other livestock from predators.
Although these dogs form strong bonds with children and other members of their families, their mere size can be a safety hazard, especially when a child is left alone with the dog. Also, they are not well-suited to living in isolation. While leaving them alone for a few hours is harmless, they get separation anxiety and can even turn destructive when left alone for a long time.
14. Hovawart

A lesser-known breed, the Hovawart dog is not typically suited for novice owners. Despite their quiet nature and sound health, these dogs are often skipped due to their need for a sufficiently large space and regular grooming.
Originally from Germany, the Hovawart was a well-known working and guard dog in its homeland. However, as breeds like the German Shepherd emerged, its fame started to decline with time.
As of 2024, Hovawarts are extremely rare and not commonly found outside Germany. They are surely one of the under-appreciated dog breeds, with little recognition despite centuries of service to humans.
15. Jagdterrier

Officially called Deutscher Jagdterrier, the Jagdterrier is another German breed to make this entry. A reliable working dog, these dogs can grow bored when left idle for a long time.
Additionally, their intelligence also makes them a beneficial breed for human purposes like guarding homes or cattle. However, due to their prey drive, the Jagterrier might not be best for multi-pet households, especially in homes with smaller pets like rabbits or cats.
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