One of the most perplexing dog breeds is the brindle dog breed, which comes in many stripes and patterns. Are they cute or just plain ugly? What makes them so unique?
You might have seen pictures of the mystical brindle dog, but several types of dogs can be brindle. These include Rottweilers, Boxers, and Bull Terriers, among others. Brindle dogs aren’t just pretty to look at, but they also serve as great pets!
Let’s talk about some interesting facts about these mysterious tiger-striped dogs and the top 10 brindle dog breeds out there so that you may want to get one for yourself.
What Does Brindle Coloring Mean?
Tiger striped dogs are animals with a skin pattern that looks like a combination of stripes and dots. Many people call them brindle dogs or brindle cats, but it’s important to remember that these words don’t always mean exactly what you think they do.
When a tiger-striped dog is born, his markings look like large spots on his body, but those spots tend to turn into stripes as he grows older. Other than looking terrific and adding variety to an animal’s appearance, there aren’t any other benefits of being a tiger-striped dog.
The genes that produce tiger striping have no known health effects or behavioral implications for animals. (*)
What is a Brindle Dog?
A brindle dog is simply a dog with a stripe or pattern of lines on its coat. A brindle dog can be any breed, but it is known for its stripe patterns, sometimes referred to as tiger-striped dogs.
All brindle dog breeds have stripes running along their back, but not all animals with tiger stripes on their back would be considered brindle dogs.
There are many brindle dog breeds out there, but we won’t be able to list them all here, so let’s look at some of those brindle dog breeds in our top list.
#1. Jack Russel Terrier
Tiger striped dogs, also commonly known as brindle dog breeds, come from a long line of hunting terriers. This small, sturdy and energetic animal is amiable and is known to be excellent with children. He has medium-sized ears and a tail that will curve over his back or straightly down.
Jack Russel Terrier is a beautiful brindle-coated pup with white colorings all over the body. Having a brindle coat can be rarer than in other breeds when it comes to this breed. JRT is the ultimate combination of color and energy.
Jack Russel Terrier is one of the most intelligent dogs amongst the brindle dog breeds! You can train them quickly, almost as efficiently as a Golden Retriever.
The Russel Terrier will soon become an irreplaceable part of your family. This small and agile dog breed is one of the most popular brindle dog breeds. If you have a JRT, you will always have a great companion for hiking or any other outdoor activity.
They have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years; however, they can live 18 years.
#2. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is one of those brindle dog breeds popular and rare. This dog originated in 19th century England. Staffies are generally athletic, playful, loyal, and friendly dogs. They’re good with kids but should be supervised around small children due to their strength.
Unfortunately, only a few bull terriers carry the brindle color gene and can be one of the brindle dog breeds.
Potential health issues for these brindle dog breeds include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin conditions like demodectic mange. If you plan on owning a Staffie, be sure to work with a trainer before bringing your new pup home. In general, they are not recommended for first-time dog owners.
They’re energetic dogs that need plenty of exercise and socialization from an early age to avoid behavioral issues down the road. But, if you have a steady hand, it can quickly become the most loyal pup you have ever had.
#3. Mastiff
Mastiffs have been around for at least 3,000 years, or maybe even longer—their original homeland is unknown and probably somewhere in Asia. Around 400 B.C., dogs very similar to today’s Mastiffs were used in Asian warfare; their job was to knock down enemy soldiers so that others could quickly run up and stab them.
These ancient mastiffs did so well that they became prized war companions and started spreading around Asia by warlords who moved from city to city with their armies.
Mastiffs are gigantic dogs. Some have striped brindle, while others can carry apricot and fawn color patterns. If you have got enough space, they can become your best friend. Because of their loving and gentle nature, they often make great companions.
Although the Mastiff is one of the most significant brindle dog breeds, it is unsuitable for first-time dog owners. This dog breed may exceed 220 pounds in weight. They cannot be carried around quickly, and they are relatively lazy.
Mastiffs do not have frequent exercise needs, and it is most likely that you will find them lying down most of the day.
#4. Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is another one of the brindle god breeds. The bread has a very similar personality to the English Mastiff. They are stubborn, headstrong, and a bit lazy.
The Bullmastiff is a manipulative dog; it likes to downplay its intelligence and drive its owner crazy. Their main disadvantage is that they refuse to listen. On the plus side, they are very affectionate, and they socialize with kids and other animals.
These gentle giants are very loyal and protective; therefore, they would make great family companions.
The Bullmastiff has a height of 27 inches and can weigh anywhere from 100 to 130 pounds. The life expectancy is 7-9 years.
#5. Great Dane
Perhaps best known for its role as a loyal companion and guard dog (but it’s not meant to be aggressive), Great Danes have been bred since ancient times by European nobility who believed they held magical powers.
The Great Dane is one of the rarer carriers of the brindle gene. Although it is classified as one of the most giant brindle dog breeds, the Great Dane can be an adorable and gentle pup.
Unfortunately, along with the greatness comes a higher price, so if you think of owning a Great Dane, you need to be ready to spend some money.
Nowadays, they’re still on many wish lists: they can weigh up to 140 pounds and stand 32 inches at their shoulders, making them one of the most giant dogs around. But however you classify these gentle giants—and however you care for them—it’s no secret that these big dogs make great companions for their families!
#6. Boxer
Brindle Boxers are one of the most energetic and playful dog breeds, making them a perfect family dog. But you can’t have young children around because they are one of the brindle dog breeds that love playing fetch, running, and swimming.
They get along great with other dogs and cats and are very protective of their owners. However, these dogs aren’t recommended for apartment living since they need daily exercise to stay happy.
The Boxer is the absolute American favorite upbeat brindle dog breed. Though they are not gigantic like the Great Dane or the Mastiff, they are pretty muscular and powerful. In addition, boxers are very protective dogs and not so stubborn.
Boxers are one of the brindle dog breeds that are both intelligent and easy to train. Red Brindle Coat is very common in this dog breed.
The Boxer may be the perfect fit for you if you’re looking for a big dog that will take over your house (and heart)!
#7. Welsh Corgi
Corgis were bred to herd, and Welsh Corgis—the type most familiar to Americans—were first used in coal mines. In addition, brindle was considered a desirable coat color among livestock as it would camouflage them while they rested. The Corgi breed comes from two types: The Cardigan Welsh and the Pembroke Welsh.
In England, farmers created cattle dogs with brindle coats by breeding local herding dogs with mastiffs from Africa and Ireland. Farmers trained their dogs to work on short bursts of energy and then give them long rest periods to preserve their dog’s stamina.
An additional breeding program further refined their abilities when hunters realized that these dogs were also excellent at tracking foxes and rabbits through heavy underbrush.
The Welsh Corgi is one of the most miniature brindle dog breeds. It is because they carry the brindle gene, and the ones with merle coloring are the most popular. Unfortunately, having a brindle corgi is rare luck, so their price tag may be way up.
Corgis are family-friendly brindle dog breeds that are intelligent and can be easily distinguished by their tails. Most of their seats are docked at birth. They are the focal point in every room because of their sweet look and adorable little backsides.
#8. Greyhound
The Greyhound is best known for its speed, athleticism, and lean body type. Averaging between 60-and 70 pounds and a height of 20 inches at the shoulders, they look very similar to Whippets. They are one of the most popular racing brindle dog breeds.
Greyhounds have a long, narrow snout that makes them look like they have an underbite or undershot jaw, but in reality, their teeth are perfectly aligned with their mouth.
Their name comes from the grayish color that blends into browns and blacks, giving them a tiger-striped appearance. Because they are racing dogs, it is hard to believe that they can be huge couch potatoes. Don’t be surprised if you see a Greyhound enjoying long afternoons on your sofa!
Although most often associated with racing, many are great family pets! They socialize with strangers very quickly if they are appropriately introduced to socializing at an early age.
#9. Whippets
Another one on our brindle dog breeds list is the Whippets. It is very similar to the Greyhounds, so it’s often referred to as ‘mini greyhounds.
Whippets are small dogs with a lot of energy and positivity. If you like to own a Whippet, be prepared to spend a lot of time exercising. Whippets tend to get anxious if they are not properly socialized as pups.
They are generally smaller and lighter dogs, with 12 to 15 years of lifespan. These pups have a gorgeous, tiger-striped pattern. They are very affectionate with family, children, and other dogs.
Whippets are sleek, sweet-faced pups who are lightning quick. They love to stretch and relax somewhere between 18 and 22 inches after long hours of intense pursuit.
These cute pups rarely bark, and if you decide to have one, they will quickly become a loving and pretty low-maintenance dog.
#10. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is one of the reversed brindle dog breeds. It has a lighter wiry coat, and it may have some tiger striping come through.
The Irish Wolfhound is not recommended for new dog owners. They are giant, sometimes lazy, and stubborn. Similar to the Mastiff, they can be unpleasant to strangers, but they will be a great addition to your family once they open up.
The minimum height for this brindle dog breed is 32 inches. The male Irish Wolfhound weighs approximately 120 pounds, while the female weighs around 105 pounds.
The life expectancy of an Irish Wolfhound is very short, from 6 to 8 years.
#11. Dachshund
Unfortunately, many people don’t know much about dachshunds or even that they are related to other dogs. Many refer to them as wieners or hot dogs, but these two names are far from actual breed names.
Hunters bred these small canines to hunt badgers (where they get their name). Now, you may be thinking: Really, wiener dogs?! What kind of crazy person would name a dog something like that?
It’s not entirely unreasonable, considering these little guys have a very long body and short legs which resemble sausages.
The Dachshund is one of the brindle dog breeds that occasionally carry the gene. The brindle is not as typical as the Mastiff or the Bulldog breed. Both short and long-haired Dachshunds can carry the brindle gene. Although it is a popular combination, they do not have a very high price tag compared to other brindle pups.
#12. Akita
This brindle breed is very similar to the Siberian husky. Akita is the national dog of Japan, and it is one of the brownish types of brindle dog breeds. This muscular and double-coated dog is famous for its courage and loyalty.
The Akita dog was bred mainly for hunting, guarding, sled work, and military/police work. This stubborn and headstrong breed needs a firm hand to maximize good behavior.
Akitas have dense coats that can come in several colors, but they are mainly considered brown brindles. Standing 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder, their head is vast and massive, and they are easily recognizable by their erect ears and dark, shining eyes.
Because of its stubbornness, the Akita dog breed is not very affectionate with family, kids, or other dogs. Instead, they are quiet but very intolerant. Still, if you socialize with them from an early age, they will easily share their affectionate side with the family.
The life expectancy of the Akita breed is 10 to 14 years.
#13. French Bulldog
France is known for many things. Impressionist art, leather goods, cheese, wine—the list goes on and on. Unfortunately, what’s not on that list is brindle dog breeds! While French Bulldogs have become popular in recent years as companion dogs, they are still relatively rare.
It means fewer breeding opportunities are available and a higher likelihood of less-than-ideal breeding practices.
The French Bulldog is one of the most admired and strong small brindle dog breeds. They are a mini-batman version of the full-sized Bulldog. So naturally, their ears are their most vital feature.
This pup can very quickly become a great family pet. The French Bulldog is very gentle and loving and quickly becomes affectionate with its owner.
#14. Basenji
The Basenji, also known as a tiger-striped dog or African Barkless Dog, is native to Central Africa. This short-legged, short-muzzled dog is brindle (dark stripes on top of tan) in color. A little history for you: Basenji is named after a region of Africa and has existed there for over 2,000 years.
These dogs use their good scent and sight for hunting animals and control other species. Basenji is one of the cleverest brindle dog breeds, and they are great companions for families. They tolerate hot weather and can handle being left on their own.
They are playful, affectionate, and friendly towards strangers. Their coat is very easy to groom, which is a huge plus.
As long as you commit to plenty of walks and playtime, the Basenji will adapt to apartment living and get along with every first-time dog owner.
#15. Cane Corso
This brindle is tough, athletic, and imposing. If a dog has its heart set on something, it will do its best to get there, even if that means knocking you over! It’s a lot of dogs, but it will reward you with loyalty and fierce devotion.
The Cane Corso is an Italian Mastiff that carries the brindle gene. Being one part of the Mastiff brindle dog breed, this dog is characterized by patience and subtle temperament.
They are devoted guardians and aloof with strangers. To teach them who the boss is, you have to train the Corso from a very early age. The Cane Corso is loyal, affectionate with family, and good with children and other dogs.
Their life expectancy is anywhere from 9 to 12 years.
#16. Presa De Canario
As part of the great Mastiff family, Presa de Canario is a brindle dog breed that carries the same genetic traits as Molosser dogs. Presa De Canario is a Spanish breed and originates from Gran Canaria Island.
Also known as Canary Mastiff, these large pups were initially bred to work with livestock. If they are not trained from an early age, they can be challenging. These large-sized pups have a very calm appearance and attentive expression.
Unfortunately, they are not very affectionate with family members, kids, or animals.
They weigh from 80 to 110 pounds and can reach up to 26 inches in height. Their life expectancy is from 9 to 11 years.
#17. Anatolian Shepherd
The Anatolian Shepherd is a rugged flock guardian. This headstrong dog was initially bred to protect the livestock. They are usually fawn or apricot and infrequently with a brindle coat.
Because of their protective nature, they are very dedicated to their owners. The Anatolian Shepherd is very reserved with strangers, headstrong and dominant, making it the perfect guardian dog.
They can reach a height of 29 inches and weigh anywhere from 100 to 150 pounds. Anatolian Shepherds are one of the most loyal brindle dog breeds. Hence they will make a perfect guard on your front door.
They are muscled but agile and brilliant as well. Although they are not the most affectionate pups, they will win you over with their calmness and adaptability.
#18. Dutch Shepherd
The Dutch Shepherd is one of the most favorite brindle dog breeds. These dogs are brilliant, and they are often used to doing police and military work. Of course, you all remember Rex, right?
They may be a bit harder to train, so make sure you can invest some time and money into their training.
Not so big but sturdy, they can grow up to 19 inches and weigh between 27 and 33 pounds. They were originally bred for herding with their distinctive brindle coat pattern (longer brown and black hair interspersed with short white or cream hair) and a dense undercoat.
Dutch Shepherds are protective and intelligent, which makes them effective guard dogs. Also, they are incredibly affectionate and good with children.
The life expectancy of a Dutch Shepherd is 11 to 14 years.
#19. Plott Hound
A rare dog breed, Plott Hounds, is often confused with dogs like Rottweilers and Dalmatians. However, their more distinctive features include white markings over a brindle coat and a blue nose.
This beautiful hunting dog breed is a descendant of the German Hanover hounds. The Plott Hound is excellent in water and very energetic.
Plott Hound is very resilient and requires a tedious exercise schedule. If you decide you want one, make sure to walk them and give them an outlet for regular exercise.
They are highly active dogs that love playing all day long and respond well to obedience training. Their working nature means they will chase after squirrels and other small prey if allowed to roam free. But, according to experts, hunting is one of their most striking characteristics.
#20. American Staffordshire Terrier
An American Staffordshire Terrier is a medium-sized, muscular dog. It has a distinctive tiger-striped brindle coat, and it is often mistaken for an American Pit Bull Terrier or a Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
The Staffordshire Terrier was brought from England in the 1800s as a fighting dog. They mainly used them for baiting bulls during fights.
The American version of the Staffordshire is taller and leaner than its English mate.
The breed’s defining features are its strength, athleticism, and agility; it is considered one of America’s most powerful dogs. In addition, a Staffordshire can be trained to compete in canine sports such as conformation showing, weight pulling, obedience, and tracking.
Terriers have been bred to have more patience than other terriers and not fight back when provoked by other animals. As a result, they will generally only fight if their owner tells them so.
They can reach a height of a maximum of 19 inches and can weigh 70 pounds at most. The life expectancy of an American Staffordshire Terrier is anywhere from 12-16 years.
#21. Mountain Cur
The Mountain Cur is another member of the beautiful brindle dog breeds. This dog breed is a member of the hound group and is very quickly trained. The Mountain Cur is a great hunting dog with a beautiful coat.
If they are correctly socialized early, they can be great with kids and other animals. However, they will protect you and your family to death if they feel threatened. This extremely loyal dog breed requires a lot of exercises, so give it plenty of energy training, so it doesn’t become destructive.
Although he is characterized as a fast and brutal hunter, the Mountain Cur is affectionate with family and children. This courageous and brilliant fighter can reach up to 26 inches and weighs anywhere from 30 to 60 pounds.
The life expectancy of the Mountain Cur is from 10 to 13 years.
#22. Treeing Tennessee Brindle
Treeing Tennessee Brindle is one of the most popular hunting brindle dog breeds. In their name, you can see it; the Tennessee Brindle is often used for chasing and trapping.
The breed originated in the United States, mainly around the Appalachian and Ozark Mountains. They are a bred from Cur dogs, very similar but smaller in size and shorter ears.
This dog breed is very energetic since it was exclusively bred for hunting. If you plan to bring one of these pups home, be prepared to give them adequate daily exercise.
They are very affectionate with family, children, and other dogs. The Tennessee Brindle is an incredibly sturdy, healthy, and intelligent dog. It is a courageous and loyal companion to every owner.
They can reach a height of 24 inches and weigh approximately 40 pounds. The life expectancy of a Treeing Tennessee Brindle is from 10 to 12 years.
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*photo by sbolotova – depositphotos