21 Popular Brown Dog Breeds (Updated)

Brown is a very popular color for dogs, and lots of dogs have brown in their coat in some way, shape, or form.

However, not many breeds are brown all over. Many of them have variations of coat colors and patterns that could include white, gold, or black.

So, the dogs mentioned here are mostly brown and range from small to large in size.

But before we get into the list, do you want to know some interesting facts?

Did you know that the brown color in dogs' and horses' coats is actually called liver?

As explained in this article published by VCA Animal Hospital, there are two main pigments that determine a dog's color—black (eumelanin) and red (phaeomelanin.)

For liver-colored dogs, their dominant pigment is black but modified by their individual genes, which of course, came from their mama and papa dog.

Each of the pigments, eumelanin and phaeomelanin, has a “default” color that can be modified by various genes. Eumelanin is, by default, black pigment, but variation in color occurs because genes modify eumelanin to create other colors such as liver (brown), blue (grey), or isabella (pale brown). Genes essentially “dilute” the pigment into these other colors by preventing the production of full strength eumelanin.

Anyway, enough of the science talk.

If you have an affinity for brown, chocolate, or liver-colored dogs, read on to see if any of these appeal to your dog-loving heart.

Most Popular Brown Dog Breeds

1. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are tiny dogs with large personalities, typically weighing no more than 6 pounds.

Although they don’t look threatening, they play the part of a noisy guard dog, letting their owners know about any potential threats that might be approaching.

They’re very charming and cute, with big eyes on their tiny faces.

Chihuahuas can be long-haired or short-haired, and brown is a common color.

They make good pets for apartment dwellers, but due to their small size, they shouldn’t be in homes with young children.

2. Pomeranian

Another dog similar in size to the Chihuahua is the Pomeranian.

This little dog is all fluff, and they typically weigh no more than 7 pounds.

Pomeranians always seem to look like they’re smiling and are inquisitive, friendly little dogs.

They have a thick double coat that sheds seasonally. Since they have such thick fur, they need regular brushing and grooming.

Pomeranians are very energetic and like constant interaction with their humans.

They’re good pets for people who don’t mind all the fur and who are either retired or work from home.

Again, a home with small children who might accidentally play too rough isn’t ideal for such small dogs.

3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Cocker Spaniel is a beautiful dog with long, wavy hair that’s mostly brown in color.

They might have a white chest, however, or even black markings.

With their floppy ears that hang on either side of their face like long silky hair, they’re graceful-looking dogs.

Although they’re in the toy group, they’re on the larger end and can weigh up to 18 pounds.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels make good lap dogs but also like a bit of playtime, which makes them an ideal, well-rounded dog for most families.

4. Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Averaging about 70 pounds, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a renowned hunting dog, especially when it comes to hunting waterfowl.

It’s their waterproof, wavy double coat that sets them apart from the Labrador Retriever’s straight, short coat.

Other than that, they look quite similar, except for the Chesapeake Bay Retriever’s amber eyes.

Although they’re very active, they also make loyal and affectionate companions.

They do need obedience training, however, since they can be strong-willed.

5. Irish Water Spaniel

Just like you’d expect from the name, Irish Water Spaniels love the water.

But they also love any activity that lets them enjoy an active lifestyle.

Without some form of daily exercise, they’re likely to become destructive and defiant.

The Irish Water Spaniel is one of the largest spaniels, averaging 60 pounds.

Their brown coat is full of long curls, and with their long snout, they can easily be mistaken for a poodle.

They don’t shed, which is good for people with allergies or who simply don’t like cleaning up dog hair.

They’re also good with children, making them great pets for an active family.

6. Chocolate Labrador Retriever

Whether chocolate, yellow, or black in color, Labrador retrievers (or labs) are one of the most popular dogs in America.

They’re social, loving, and eager to please.

They need regular exercise like any medium-sized dog, but they are prone to obesity without it, making exercise an important part of their daily routine.

Besides going for regular walks or playing fetch, labs love swimming.

Labs average about 65 pounds if they’re healthy, but they can weigh more or less depending on their height.

They’re great family dogs and are gentle companions for kids.

7. German Shorthaired Pointer

If you’re a hunter who has a soft spot for brown dogs, it’s possible that the German Shorthaired Pointer is the dog for you.

They’re either solid brown or white with brown spots.

Their coat is short, and they have long, floppy ears that hang alongside their face.

They also have a straight tail that they use to “point” when they identify a hunting target.

German Shorthaired Pointers are medium-sized dogs averaging about 60 pounds.

They have lots of energy, so you’ll have to be prepared to provide plenty of opportunities for exercise.

But after an active day, they’re just as happy to snuggle up next to you and relax.

8. Cane Corso

The Cane Corso is a large, majestic-looking dog that can either be black or brown in color.

They can reach about 28 inches tall at the shoulder and easily exceed 100 pounds.

Besides their short, glossy coat, the dog is easily identifiable by their inward-pointing ears that look small compared to their large body.

Although they look intimidating, they’re actually good pets for families with children and other animals — providing they’re socialized early.

By taking them to obedience classes and socializing them as a puppy, you’ll have a loyal, intelligent friend who’s eager to please.

9. Great Dane

The Great Dane is a huge dog that easily exceeds the height of their owners when standing on their hind legs.

They average 175-200 pounds and reach about 3 feet high at their shoulder.

Great Danes are considered gentle giants, so if you can get past their size, you’ll notice a dog that’s great with kids, eager to please, and highly loyal to their family.

Great Danes come in a variety of colors, including brown.

They need lots of room due to their size and would do best in a home with a large, fenced-in yard.

10. Chow Chow

With their signature black tongue, fluffy coat, and lion-like mane, you won't miss a Chow chow when you see one.

Chow Chows have been known as an amazing all-purpose breed. They’re amazing as family dogs, but they can also be aloof, especially to strangers.

You can say they're the cool and quiet type.

Brown is also a common color among Chow chows, and they’re usually solid in color with no markings.

11. Dachshund

Also known as wiener dogs, hot dogs, or sausage dogs, chocolate or brown is also a standard color among Dachshunds.

There are three coat varieties for this breed: smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired Dachshund

The purebred Dachshund is distinguished by its elongated, long, low body and short, stubby legs. Their floppy ears and oval-shaped eyes complete that adorable pup look!

There's a miniature version of Dachshunds that would make great lap dogs for families. It only weighs around 11 pounds or less, while the standard ones weigh 16 to 32 pounds.

12. Lagotto Romagnolo

You'd probably mistake this breed for a poodle at first glance (like I did), but the standard poodle is actually larger than a Lagotto Romagnolo.

One distinct similarity between them, though, is they both don't shed a lot. Arguably, some might consider them hypoallergenic!

This dog is of Italian descent and is often referred to as the “truffle dog.

AKC recognizes this breed as a Sporting dog breed.

13. Vizsla

If you're an active type of person who wants a brown-colored companion, then the Vizsla might be the one for you.

AKC calls this breed “lively, gentle-mannered, demonstrably affectionate, and sensitive”.

Not only will they gladly join you in your outdoor activities, but they will always stay by your or your family's side, no matter what.

They aren't known as “Velcro Vizsla” for nothing!

Vizslas are hunting dog breeds, and their hyperactivity sometimes translates to destructiveness, a.k.a. chewing when bored.

14. Poodle

Who doesn't love Poodles? Whether they're miniature, standard, or toy, poodles have always been among the most popular dog breeds in the world.

Brown is among the common colors in Poodles, yet it tends to lighten as they grow older.

Poodles are classified as one of the most intelligent breeds out there. That means with enough time and attention, they can easily learn tricks, and training is a breeze.

Poodles require a lot of attention from their owners. They need a lot of time for walking, playtime, and pets.

15. American Staffordshire Terrier

American Staffordshire Terrier is among the breeds of dogs with a bad rap almost anywhere in the world because of irresponsible pet ownership and massive misinformation.

But when cared for properly, they're actually very affectionate and enjoy being around people.

They may look intimidating, but they are also loyal, tenacious, brave, protective, and intelligent.

Sure, they can be a bit stubborn and want things their way, but with a gentle yet firm hand, they can be the best companion you, and even your kids, can have.

16. Boxer

Ah, the “Peter Pan” dog—Boxers!

One interesting fact about this breed is they have one of the most extended puppyhoods. They don't mature enough unless they turn three.

That means if you adopt a Boxer, not only will you get a brown dog, but you'll also get one that's high in energy and family-friendly.

Not to mention that they're loyal, loving, intelligent, have a great work ethic, and have good looks. Plus, they're easy to groom, too!

Boxers are definitely a total doggy package!

17. Shiba Inu

Brown (or red) is one of the standard and more common colors of this dog.

Shiba Inus originated in Japan. They were originally hunting dogs but, over time, became non-sporting companion dogs.

Shiba Inu's physical features are close to a fox as well, especially their ear shape.

Their ears are like small triangles that are straight on the inside but rounded on the outside.

Some would say Shiba Inus have the personality of a cat because of their stubborn and seemingly indifferent nature. But maybe they just have a different love language!

18. Basset Hound

There's no mistaking those long, droopy ears of the Basset Hound.

This low-slung and low-key dog might be stubborn at times but is always endearing.

Some Basset Hounds are dignified, but the vast majority are clownish. Almost all are consistently good-natured, friendly, and calm with strangers, children, and other pets.

Basset Hounds are another brown dog you can consider as a great companion!

RELATED: Basset Hound Price: How Much is a Basset Hound?

19. Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards may not be brown all throughout, but this color mixed with white is arguably their signature look.

They're also called gentle giants because they're among the sweetest and warmest companion dogs you can get.

If you’re up for the challenge of matching their stubborn intelligence and high-maintenance needs, then they may be a good option for you.

But keep in mind that Saint Bernards have a low tolerance for warm weather. It’s best to adopt this breed when you reside in colder areas.

20. Collie

Gentle and loyal, the Collie is among the most recognizable and beloved dog breeds. He is protective by nature but is never known for being aggressive.

Not only are they of great beauty, dignity, and balance, but the Collie dog is also intelligent, friendly, and loving.

They are sensitive dogs and affectionate with their family. Due to their calmness, they make for great therapy dogs.

 

21. German Shepherd

A popular police dog breed, German Shepherds can also be your family's protector and true companion.

These classic brown-and-black dogs enjoy being active and going outdoors for walks, hikes, or swimming.

If you're considering adopting a German Shepherd, be sure that you have plenty of time to give him the exercise that he needs.

And as you may (or may not) know, they have thick, double coats, which means they shed a lot.

Their iconic look is certainly stunning, but you'll have to be willing to put in the time to upkeep their coat.

Typically, German Shepherds live for 10 to 14 years when properly cared for.

INTERESTING: German Shepherd Survives 3 Days In a Sinkhole

Popular Brown Dog Breeds: Before You Go…

Those are only 21 of the countless dog breeds with beautiful brown coats that are popular among pet owners.

There are still lots of brunette beauties out there in the dog world.

If you’re looking for a lazy lap dog, a big fluffy goofball, or a combination of the two, there’s likely one liver-colored dog out there waiting for you.

Are you already set in mind to get a brown dog? Perhaps, you can consider white, black, or spotted ones?

Check out our recommended articles below!

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