7 Popular Brown Dog Breeds (And Their Traits)

When we describe our furry friends, it always starts with the color. You have a fluffy white dog, your best friend is a large black dog, a cute little brown Dachshund, etc. However, it isn’t a dog’s color that makes it the perfect canine companion for your family. Nevertheless, here we will tell you about the traits of popular brown dog breeds.

Instead, the pooch’s unique characteristics make it special for you. Your Cocker Spaniel or Poodle is loveable, affectionate, and gentle with your kids, or your Rottweiler is an alert watchdog or guard dog. Your Australian Shepherd and your Collie fit into your active lifestyle and love going along when you go jogging, cycling, skateboarding or hiking. Is the Shih Tzu or Chihuahua the perfect little lapdog to keep your elderly parents’ company in their small apartment?

In none of these perfect matches does the pooch’s coat color matter. Yet, we hear the name of a breed, and immediately our mind’s eye forms a picture of a particular color dog. Is that picture ever of a dog with an all-brown coat? Unlikely, because there are not many breeds with no white or other colors combined with the brown in their coats. Let’s look at a few coco-doggy dudes and babes.

1. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are known for their large, expressive eyes, drop ears and large, broad heads. Another trademark is their fairly short, thick and water-resistant double coat. Male Labs stand about 24 inches high and weigh between 55 pounds for females and 85 pounds for larger males. Although they are not exclusively a brown dog breed, they do come in chocolate brown.

Many Lab owners say their Labrador Retriever’s coat color indicates the dog’s character. Some insist that their yellow Labradors are the calmest and sweetest dogs. Others say Chocolate Labs are rambunctious and a little wild, while Black Labradors are considered patient hunters. However, no scientific or other testing supports the assertion that a Labrador’s color determines its personality.

Labradors naturally bond with their whole family; however, they might show some level of preference for the person they spend the most time with or who feeds them. They get along with most other breeds, but the most suitable company for a Lab includes other lively, friendly dogs like Golden Retrievers, English Springer Spaniels, Boxers, Boston Terriers and Beagles.

2. Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel is one of the popular brown dog breeds that make great companion dogs for people who can give them the exercise they need. Even apartment dwellers will love this affectionate and adaptable pup. Cocker Spaniels come in an astonishing array of 24 colors, of which the American Kennel Club registers only 10 as official colors. Among those 10 are five solid brown shades. If you want a brown Cocker Spaniel, your options would include golden brown, chocolate brown, liver— not as dark as chocolate, reddish brown and tan.

Adult Cocker Spaniels stand 14 to 17 inches tall and weigh between 26 and 34 pounds. The Cockers’ expected lifespan is 12 to 14 years, and the females give birth to six to eight puppies per litter. Cockers are known for their loving demeanor. The Cocker Spaniel possesses traits common to all Spaniels. They are affectionate, cheerful, and devoted to their people while being funny and curious. He will make you laugh and can be a good choice for families with children.

3. Boxer

Boxers stand between 21 and 25 inches high at the withers, and their average weight is 66 pounds. Female Boxers have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Recognized Boxer coat colors include Fawn, Brindle, and White.

The fawn coat is almost like a milk chocolate color. The brindle is not a color but darker stripes of varied thickness over the fawn coat, making it appear a much darker brown. All Boxers have black masks, and white markings can be seen on their necks, chest, paws, and even face, although they are mostly a brown dog breed.

The strong, athletic Boxer is mostly a brown dog breed that might look intimidating from afar, but up close, they are silly, outgoing, and the life of the dog park. And let’s not forget about their infectious full-body wiggle. Loyal and protective, the Boxer gets along well with children and makes a great family dog. One look into their sweet, human-like eyes, and you might just fall for this fun-loving breed.

Their ability to make many two- and four-legged friends is one of the Boxer’s greatest strengths, making them sought-after family companions. Silly pups at heart, they’re like kids in dogs’ bodies, which may explain why Boxers and kids get along so well. They’ll never cease to put a smile on your face with their clown-like antics.

You can often catch them in a human-sitting position with their rear legs out in front of them and rolling back into a lazy dog position. They’re also prone to zoomies and stopping on a dime to dole out sloppy, wet kisses. The Boxer is for your family if your dream dog is athletic and affectionate. Boxers are big dogs with a big streak of mischief in their makeup. You’ll need a sense of humor to live with one.

4. Chow Chow

Chow Chow males weigh between 55 and 70 pounds and stand about 24 inches at the shoulder. In contrast, females are smaller, weighing 40 to 60 pounds and standing 21 inches at the shoulder. This breed, with its distinctive blue tongue, comes in eight registered colors, four of which are shades of brown. The registered names of their coats are typically misleading.

For instance, the color registered as Cinnamon looks nothing like cinnamon. Instead, it is a light beige color coat. Red Chow Chows have rich reddish brown coats, and those with a dilution gene have red coats diluted to fawn-colored coats. You may ask what about the large dark chocolate brown fur ball Chows? The registered name for that color is liver.

With positive obedience training, Chow Chows can be obedient and loyal pets. They are elegant and aloof canine companions, not particularly playful. They enjoy the family’s affection, but dislike fuss. Their inborn distrust of strangers makes them excellent guard dogs.

Chow Chows don’t appreciate sudden moves or surprises, moreover, nor do they enjoy being hugged. The deep fold of flesh and fur around the Chow’s eyes somewhat limit their vision. Therefore, anyone or anything approaching from the side could startle them. Announcing your presence, or approaching these pooches from an angle where they can see you, can avoid unnecessary anxiety.

5. Cane Corso

The Cane Corso falls in the large breed category, and you might have heard what a marvelous companion this canine can be. Moreover, how they are loyal and majestic with a powerful presence, but please also know that Cani Corsi aren’t for the fainthearted. That cute, chubby puppy Corso will become a 110+pound dog, standing at least 24 inches high.

Among the 12 registered coat colors, several shades of brown are acceptable. Fawn is a cream to brownish tan, and the red coat is a reddish brown, which could be as dark as rich mahogany. Then there is chestnut and liver/chocolate brown. Lastly, there is formento, an Italian reference to the color of fermented wheat.

The Cane Corso can intimidate strangers with a single look. Yet despite their imposing appearance, these big dogs can be very affectionate with their family. However, he doesn’t “wear his heart on his sleeve.” Some are noticeably reserved, others are more outgoing, but few adult Corsi are usually exuberantly demonstrative of their affection. Proper socialization and training are a must for this smart-yet-stubborn, highly driven breed, making the Cane Corso a good match for an experienced, assertive dog parent. 

Cane Corso is a big canine, but not a boisterous kind of dog. It is relatively calm and relaxed. They make remarkable eye contact with their favorite people. The Cane Corso likes to be near you, usually in the same room, preferably on a comfortable pad or cushion in a corner or under a table, just “keeping you company.” He loves conversation, petting, and cuddling when you offer it, but they are moderate and not overbearing in coming to you to demand much attention. Be aware, though, Cani Corsi with heavy jowls drool and slobber.

6. Pomeranian

Pomeranians are part of the toy group of dog breeds, with an average weight of only 5 pounds and typically no taller than 12 inches. Solid Chocolate Pomeranians are not extremely common. They can range from light milky chocolate to dark mocha tones, and their nose and paw pads are often the same silky brown color.

One of the social aspects of Pomeranian temperament that makes them so popular is that they are very affectionate and loyal. They want to be with their human families all the time, and this can be both good and bad. While Pomeranians don’t require much from their owners regarding food and exercise, they prefer to be the center of your world.

The Pomeranian temperament mixes independent and loyal, but they love nothing more than sitting on your lap and being showered with love and affection. The good news is that they will give it right back, and nothing can brighten your day more than having those adorable eyes turned on you with adoration. Moreover, a healthy Pomeranian can keep you company for as long as 16 years.

7. Great Dane

The Great Dane’s enormous appearance has intimidated intruders from ancient Roman times until now. They are majestic, powerful guardians of their owners and their property. The Great Dane falls in the giant breed category, with an average weight of 160 pounds for males and 115 pounds for females and an average height of 32 inches at the withers for males and 30 inches for females.

The Great Dane short coat comes in a considerable variety of colors, including beautiful brown! This dog is often calm, patient, and quiet. They are great with kids, but can accidentally knock them down due to their massive size. Their long, floppy ears are just begging for a rub, and those droopy jowls definitely need a nuzzle.

Great Danes possess a regal air of elegance. The confident Dane is not just a gentle giant; it’s protective of its family and suspicious of strangers. The Great Dane requires an experienced and firm owner who can command his respect without being physically or verbally abusive.

Great Danes are so endearing that some would tend to become clingy. They love to receive attention from their favorite humans. If they are not getting any, expect these canines to jump on the sofa or do anything quirky until you get the attention they crave. If Apollo wants to sit on your lap, you’ll soon learn there’s no stopping him.

Danes form extraordinary bonds with their human families. Some develop a “velcro-dependency,” which means it needs to be close to you every minute of the day—not just close, but touching. Once that happens, your Gentle Giant will likely develop separation anxiety. Therefore, Great Danes do best in homes where one family member remains behind when others go to work, school, etc.

 

Other Large Brown Dog Breeds

The American and Australian Shepherds, and Collies are also popular dogs with some brown in their coats. These breeds were bred to be herders, and they love herding small children or other pets.

Mastiff: There are about six Mastiff types of dogs worldwide. They are dignified yet good-natured canines. He is loving and affectionate toward his family, and his calm demeanor makes him a good companion for older children. The range of possible colors includes brown shades from fawn to chocolate brown.

Other Medium-Sized Brown Dog Breeds with long hair

Siberian Husky: Siberian Huskies tend to be friendly with people, including children. Most Siberian huskies are good with other dogs, especially ones they are raised with. They have a strong prey drive and may chase cats and other small pets. Copper Siberian Huskies are on the darker, rich end of red. Occasionally, they’re also referred to as “chocolate” or “brown” if the red is very rusty.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: The Cavalier is a sweet, gentle, and affectionate breed, very eager to please its human. They are friendly with strangers and other animals, and they can do very well with children. One of the accepted coats is Ruby, a rich chestnut color.

Other Medium-Sized Brown Dog Breeds with Short, Smooth Coats

American Staffordshire Terrier: Known to their fans as AmStaffs, they are intelligent dogs, and confident, good-natured companions. AmStaffs come in a variety of colors, with liver, sable, brindle, and brown being the most common.

Basset: The Basset hound is a friendly, easygoing dog. Originally hunting in packs, they tend to be good with other dogs and other pets in general. Bassets are people-oriented and get along well with children. The smooth coats of Bassets include brown variants that can range from hazel shades to dark browns.

Beagle: Beagles are hunting dogs with friendly and outgoing natures, making them great family pets. However, they can be boisterous, so, like all dogs, it’s wise to supervise them around young children. Beagles are typically multicolored dogs. It’s extremely rare to find a solid single-color Beagle. At the very least, a Beagle will have two colors, most of which include brown, tan, or fawn.

Bull Terrier: Bull terriers are gentle, affectionate, and playful with family members. They also are loyal pets that will guard the family. As with any large or tough breed, proper precautions around strangers, children, and other animals are essential. Bull Terriers are mostly a brown dog breed with white markings on short hair coats.

American Bulldog: As long as your American Bulldog is well-trained, they’ll get on well with children and other pets, becoming loving and loyal members of the family. Although American Bulldogs can’t be all-brown, The AKC approves brown markings, and also tan, brindle, black, and red.

To Conclude

Hopefully, we have given you food for thought if you are thinking of getting a brown pup to join your family. For more information, you could follow the links of the brown dog breed on this page to exclusive pages per breed.

This is where you can find answers to questions about the best dog foods for your canine companion, to ensure optimal health.