Getting a puppy can be hard work. Oh all that planning. Not to mention, you still have to make a good choice as well. That’s not easy when there are so many breeds out there! Not to mention that they are all so damn adorable. But the best of all that you can get is a brown puppy.
From the ever-popular Labrador retriever to the small but mighty dachshund; there are lots of dog breeds that come in brown shades. Some of these breeds have long, fluffy fur. Others have short, coarse fur. They can range widely on a number of factors, such as in size and shape, temperament, and activity level. What is universally common and unites them all is that they all possess genes that produce brown coats.
So, with that in mind, here are 15 of the most popular brown dog breeds.
Best Brown Puppy Breed: Labrador Retriever
Brown puppy breed overview
GROUP: Sporting
HEIGHT: 22.5 to 24.5 inches (male); 21.5 to 23.5 inches (female)
WEIGHT: 65 to 80 pounds (male); 55 to 70 pounds (female)
COAT AND COLOR: Short, dense double coat; comes in black, chocolate, or yellow
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 years
Those who have a Labrador retriever know how amazing this brown puppy is. Their goofy personalities, playful temperaments, and kind souls make them a popular choice for companion pets among families all around the world. Labs are big, bulky dogs who love to run, play, and especially swimming. They are best suited to active family homes. They come in three solid coat colors including chocolate.
Shiba Inu
Breed overview
GROUP: Non-Sporting
HEIGHT: 14.5 to 16.5 inches (male); 13.5 to 15.5 inches (female)
WEIGHT: Around 23 pounds (male); around 17 pounds (female)
COAT AND COLOR: Stiff and straight outer coat; soft and thick undercoat; three color types: red, black and sesame, black and tan
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 13 to 16 years
The Shiba Inu is an ancient Japanese breed that was used in hunting. Eventually, the breed came to the United States where it steadily gained traction thanks to its intelligence and quiet nature. Shibas rarely bark, so they can be the best brown puppy for quiet loving people. However, it doesn’t mean the Shiba Inus are right for everyone. They can be rather aloof and strong-willed. Also, while you probably will not see a dark brown shade in the Shiba Inu; they most commonly are seen in a shade of reddish tan.
German Shepherd
Breed overview
GROUP: Herding
HEIGHT: 24 to 26 inches (male); 22 to 24 inches (female)
WEIGHT: 65 to 90 pounds (male); 50 to 70 pounds (female)
COAT AND COLOR: Coarse, medium-length double coat; colors include black and tan, black and cream, black and red, black and silver, solid black, gray, and sable
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 7 to 10 years
German shepherds are often utilized as working dogs, especially in law enforcement and search-and-rescue. They are also well suited to be service dogs. They are intelligent, athletic, and unfailingly loyal. However, early and ongoing socialization and training are important for this powerful breed due to its strong guarding traits. A German shepherd’s coat should be brushed weekly to remove loose fur. It can feature light to dark shades of brown.
Collie
Breed overview
GROUP: Herding
HEIGHT: 24 to 26 inches (male); 22 to 24 inches (female)
WEIGHT: 60 to 75 pounds (male); 50 to 65 pounds (female)
COAT AND COLOR: Rough variety: straight, harsh, abundant overcoat and soft undercoat; smooth variety: short, hard, dense, flat overcoat and soft undercoat; colors include sable and white, tricolor, blue merle, or white
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 14 years
There are probably only a handful of people that do not know what a collie is or looks like. The collie breed is perhaps most recognizable thanks to the success of Lassie as a pop culture star. The coat of this fluffy puppy comes in a number of colors, from sable and white, tricolor, blue merle, or pure white. When met with proper training, Collies are known to learn quickly and with ease.
On the matter of grooming Collies, variety matters a lot. The coat of Smooth Collies won’t mat but they definitely need regular grooming thanks to their double coat. Rough Collies, on the other hand, are susceptible to matting, especially behind their ears and undercoat. Weekly brushings eliminate shedding problems in both smooth and rough Collies, but females (if spayed) have a big shed once a year, while males shed around their birthday.
American Staffordshire Terrier
Breed overview
GROUP: Terrier
HEIGHT: 18 to 19 inches (male); 17 to 18 inches (female)
WEIGHT: 55 to 70 pounds (male); 40 to 55 pounds (female)
COAT AND COLOR: Short coat; comes in a variety of colors including black, brown, blue, fawn, red, and liver; brindle pattern and or white markings also possible
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 16 years
The American Staffordshire terrier, sometimes known as “Staffie” or “Am Staff,” is a generally affectionate brown puppy; despite how tough it may look on the exterior. They belong to breeds known generally as pit bulls. Quick caveat though, careful introductions are sometimes needed with other pets. However, they are often unfailingly loyal dogs with lots of energy. So if your family is an active one, you’re in good hands. Their short, stiff coats can come in a variety of brown shades.
Chow Chow
Brown puppy breed overview
GROUP: Non-Sporting
HEIGHT: 17 to 20 inches
WEIGHT: 45 to 70 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Rough or smooth coat; colors include black, blue, cinnamon, cream, or red
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 8 to 12 years
All the way from ancient China, the Chow Chow stands at a very high 20 inches. They are mostly known for their recognizable ‘lion’ mane; and they also have rough or smooth coats, like the Collie. This fluffy puppy’s coat colors appear in red, black, cinnamon, and cream-colored. Some long-term owners have mentioned that Chow Chows do not require a lot of exercises and are extremely well-mannered. However, while they might not require a lot of exercises, they do need regular grooming. Chows have a double coat and some owners brush their coat at least twice per week. Since their coat rubs close to their eyes, their eyes and ears require care with each grooming. If not groomed at least once a month, their coats can become matted and the undercoat can become full of knots. You should use a cool air dryer after bath time.
Most Energetic Brown Puppy: Australian Shepherd
Breed Overview
GROUP: Herding
HEIGHT: 20 to 23 inches (male); 18 to 21 inches (female)
WEIGHT: 50 to 65 pounds (male); 40 to 55 pounds (female)
COAT AND COLOR: Medium to long coat; comes in blue merle, red merle, black, or red; all colors may have white markings and/or tan (copper) points
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 15 years
How would you perfectly describe the Australian Shepherd? Pure athleticism. That’s the best way to describe Australian shepherds, affectionately also known as Aussies. These dogs are medium-size, but they require more exercise than most dog breeds. Aussies love working, whether it be herding sheep or zipping through agility courses. So they are ideal for active families or farmers who need a helping hand. Aussies can sport several different coat colors, including a beautiful reddish-brown one. They are also one of the cutest brown puppy breeds.
Best Brown Puppy Breed: Dachshund
Breed overview
GROUP: Hound
HEIGHT: 8 to 9 inches (standard); 5 to 6 inches (miniature)
WEIGHT: 16 to 32 pounds (standard); up to 11 pounds (miniature)
COAT AND COLOR: Coat varieties include smooth (short haired), longhaired, and wire-haired; colors include (but not limited to) black, tan, fawn, beige, blue, chocolate, and red; various markings such as dapple, piebald, brindle, and sable
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 16 years
Looking for a small companion brown puppy? Then look no further and consider a dachshund. They are also known as wiener dogs or doxies. Dachshunds are sweet, loving brown puppy breeds that come in a tiny package. They’re longer than they are tall, but they make up for their lack of height with their bright personalities. Dachshunds are typically seen in shades of brown, though several other color combinations are possible as well.
Brown Puppy: Pomeranian
Breed overview
GROUP: Toy
HEIGHT: 6 to 7 inches
WEIGHT: 3 to 7 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Long, double coat; comes in many colors including red, orange, cream, sable, black, brown, and blue
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 16 years
These belong to the more popular Toy Group breeds. Toy breeds are short on size, but they definitely have big personalities. Breeds in the Toy group are affectionate, sociable and adaptable to a wide range of lifestyles. It would be erroneous to judge them by their size though. Neither should you let their winsome expressions fool you. Toy breeds are smart, full of energy and many have strong protective instincts.
Toy dogs are popular with city dwellers because they make ideal apartment dogs and are terrific lap warmers. Pomeranians have a fluffy coat and fox-like smile. They usually weigh in at about no more than seven pounds; but this fluffy puppy sure knows how to command a room. The small, but mighty dog has a double coat and frill covering the chest. The extra-fluffy coat comes in at least two dozen colors, but is most commonly recognized in orange and red. The double coat requires regular brushing to maintain shine and fluffiness. It’s recommended for owners to use a pin brush down to the skin, once a week, to prevent matting. In addition to regular brushing, it’s important to pay attention to a Pomeranian’s teeth and perform regular dental cleanings.
Pomeranians are adorable fur balls that can be amazing companions for the right person. These dogs aren’t for everyone, as they can be quite bossy; but they can make great pals with solid training and socialization. Pomeranians are quite recognizable because of their long, puffy coat that comes in a variety of colors, including brown. Their grooming regimen is quite high maintenance, and to be honest, that’s understandable.
Poodle: Fluffy Brown Puppy
Breed overview
GROUP: Non-Sporting
HEIGHT: Standard: over 15 inches; miniature: 10 to 15 inches; toy: 10 inches and under
WEIGHT: Standard: 45 to 70 pounds; miniature: 15 to 18 pounds; toy: 5 to 9 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Curly, dense single coat; one of many solid colors including but not limited to white, black, gray, brown, and apricot
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 18 years
Who doesn’t love poodles? The poodle comes in three different sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. Poodles are generally delightfully playful and are also affectionate dogs. Note that because of their fierce intelligence and athletic prowess; they are best suited to a home that can offer them ample physical and mental enrichment. Their curly coat does require a fair amount of grooming. And while white is a common color, poodles also can come in brown among other shades. So you can definitely fulfil your brown puppy fantasies with one of the best breeds out there.
Note: It is recommended that a daily brushing routine should be adopted to avoid knotting. Once a Poodle’s fur becomes matted near the roots, you’ll have to shave the dog completely to allow for re-growth. You can choose to trim and cut the coat yourself, like some owners; or opt for going to the groomer’s about every four to six weeks. This brown puppy breed is great for individuals that have problems with dog allergies; so they don’t have to deal with shedding. The variety of designs and hairdos make the Poodle one of a kind; but the breed is also recognized for its intelligence and ability to learn quickly. You’ll be getting a big plus with this breed.
Boxer
Brown puppy breed overview
GROUP: Working
HEIGHT: 23 to 25 inches (male); 21.5 to 23.5 inches (female)
WEIGHT: 65 to 80 pounds (male); females about 15 pounds less than males
COAT AND COLOR: Short coat; fawn and brindle are standard colors; standard markings include a black mask, black mask with white markings, and white markings
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 years
Energetic and lovable, the boxer brown puppy is a wonderful companion. You should just make sure you have enough room and energy to exercise them; because they can be such athletic and large pups. A boxer’s coat is shiny and smooth, and it requires little grooming. A weekly brushing should be sufficient to remove loose fur. Boxers are commonly seen in shades of brown from tan to mahogany.
Chihuahua: Smallest Brown Puppy Breed
Breed overview
GROUP: Toy
HEIGHT: 5 to 8 inches
WEIGHT: Up to 6 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Smooth (short) or long coat; comes in either solid or a combination of two colors; most common colors include black, tan, fawn, cream, white, blue, silver, chocolate, and red
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 14 to 16 years
Chihuahuas may be tiny brown puppy breeds, but they make up for it in attitude. They are confident and affectionate. Most importantly, they can be perfect companions for people who aren’t able to exercise a large, athletic dog breed. Even so, don’t be mistaken, chihuahuas still need regular walks or play sessions; in order for them to stay happy and healthy. Both the long and short coat varieties don’t require excessive grooming. They are often seen in tan but if you prefer deeper chocolate, that is very possible as well.
Largest Brown Puppy Breed: Great Dane
Breed overview
GROUP: Working
HEIGHT: 30 to 32 inches (male); 28 to 30 inches (female)
WEIGHT: 140 to 175 pounds (male); 110 to 140 pounds (female)
COAT AND COLOR: Short coat; comes in brindle, fawn, blue, black, harlequin (white with black patches), or mantle (black and white)
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 7 to 10 years
If you’re in the market for a really large brown puppy, look no further. Towering Great Danes take the Guinness World Record for the world’s tallest dog. Despite their imposing size, Danes are generally friendly pups. They love to play, but it appears they equally love to laze around on the sofa with their owners. Their coat is fairly low-maintenance and is often seen in a lighter shade of brown.
Basset Hound Brown Puppy
Breed overview
GROUP: Hound
HEIGHT: Up to 15 inches
WEIGHT: 40 to 65 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Short coat; color combinations of black/mahogany, white, brown/tan, red, and yellow
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 13 years
The Basset hound is known for being an affectionate and mild-mannered brown puppy, but there is the chance that you have to work to achieve a solid recall. This is because they can tend to have a stubborn streak. Moreover, with their long ears and skin folds, they are prone to infections, so regular cleaning is necessary. Although it is possible to see bassets in solid brown, the American Kennel Club breed standard does not accept it. You are more likely to see a white-and-tan mix as the most common coat.
Brown Puppy Pet Names
So now that we’ve gone through the possible options of brown puppy breeds; the next step would be to give it a good name. A dog needs its identity, after all. Here are some great brown puppy names to consider.
- Buckwheat
- Carob
- Cashew
- Cedar
- Champagne
- Cider
- Cheddar
- Chestnut
- Coffee
- Donut
- Espresso
- Fawn
- Fudge
- Graham (Cracker)
- Henna
- Oatmeal
- Sundance
- Tawny
- Teak
- Toast
- Topaz
These are great, especially if you’re looking to name your dog after a brown theme. There are some other names you can consider as well, such as:
- Penny
- Cocoa
- Ginger
- Pepper
- Cookie
- Honey
- Bruno (a brown bear)
- Moose
- Dusty
- Bean or Beanie (Beans)
- Kona
- Hazel
- Winnie
- Peanut
- Chewy (Chewie, Chewey)
- Sandy
- Mocha
- Pebbles
- Peaches
- Brandy
- Aspen
- Foxy
- Summer
- Sunny
- Guinness
- Amber
- Nugget
- Sierra
- Cinnamon
- Reese
- Pumpkin
- Snickers
- Bear
- Brownie
- Tootsie
- Autumn
- Hershey
- Muffin
- Mochi
- Maple
- Oakley
- Biscuit
- Goldie
- Kahlua
- Cupcake
- Ember
- Whiskey
- Freckles
- Copper
- Canela (cinnamon in Spanish)
- Taffy
- Waffles
- Bourbon
- Timber
- Mango
- Sienna
- Java
- Nutmeg
- Truffles
- Caramel
- Pinto
- Chocolate
- Forest
- Bacon
- Bagel
- Fox
- Dunkin (as in the donuts franchise)
- Chai
- Wookie
- Noodles
- Toffee
- Pancake
