When it comes to dog breeds that feature a tricolor coat of black, white, and brown, there are a few likely possibilities. Some of the most common tricolor dog breeds include the Beagle, Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, Corgi, and Dachshund. The exact pattern and placement of the three colors can vary quite a bit within these breeds, creating a range of beautiful and striking combinations.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular tricolor dog breeds to help identify the different looks this type of coat can have. We’ll examine the typical color patterns and markings of each breed, along with some of their other defining characteristics. With this information, you’ll be better equipped to determine which tricolor breed may best match the dog you have in mind.
Beagle
One of the classic tri-colored breeds is the Beagle. These small scent hounds typically have a white base coat with large black sections and light brown spots. The brown is usually concentrated on the face, ears, back, and tail. The black areas tend to be on the back, neck, and shoulders. But there can be a good deal of variation among individual dogs. The white portions may cover the belly, chest, legs, neck, blaze, and collar. Overall, the combination creates a striking tricolor pattern.
In addition to their colorful coat, Beagles are known for their sturdy, compact bodies standing 13-15 inches tall. They have a muscular frame supported by straight legs. Their tail is medium-length and carries high. Beagles also have broad heads with long, droopy ears. Their dark brown eyes and tri-colored coat give them an expressive, endearing look. As a breed, Beagles are energetic, curious, and possess a keen sense of smell. Their tricolor coat allows them to stand out in the field during hunting excursions.
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is another breed well-known for having a tricolor coat of black, white, and brown. In fact, this coloring is part of the Aussie’s breed standard along with its medium-length double coat. The base color is usually black or blue merle, with distinct tan and white markings on the face, legs, chest, underside, collar, and blaze. The tan varies from light cream to a deeper rust hue. The white is often present on the face, neck, chest, legs, underbelly, and blaze.
Beyond their eye-catching coat, Australian Shepherds have a medium-sized build standing 18-23 inches tall and weighing 40-65 pounds. They have erect, pointed ears and a long, flowing tail. Aussies are agile, energetic working dogs originally bred to herd livestock. They are very smart, loyal, and bond closely with their family. The breed’s signature tricolor pattern exemplifies the diversity possible with this type of coloring.
Border Collie
The Border Collie is a herding breed renowned for its intelligence and athleticism. This energetic dog also commonly displays the classic black, white, and brown tricolor pattern. The base is usually black with spots of white and tan scattered about. The tan markings typically appear over the eyes, sides of the muzzle, chest, legs, underside, and cheeks. White markings are often found on the face, neck, chest, feet, legs, and tail tip. The black coat can either be solid or display some mottling.
Beyond the tri-coloring, Border Collies have a medium build at 18-22 inches tall and 30-45 pounds. They have moderately wide heads featuring almond-shaped eyes, slightly rounded tips on erect ears, and a medium-length tail. Their double coat is thick and weather-resistant. Border Collies need regular intense exercise and mental stimulation. Their tricolor coats make them eye-catching while performing their original role – herding livestock in the rugged countryside along the England/Scotland border.
Corgi
Few breeds pull off the classic tricolor look quite like the lovable Corgi. These long, low-slung dogs come primarily in two varieties: the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Both feature bold black and white markings punctuated with warm tan/red accents. The black includes parts of the body and legs, while the white covers the neck, chest, legs, underbelly, and blaze. Splashes of red appear over the eyes, sides of the muzzle, cheeks, and legs. Some may also have red mixed throughout the tail.
Aside from their coloring, Corgis are instantly recognizable thanks to their fox-like head featuring erect ears and foxy expression. They have compact, muscular bodies standing 10-13 inches tall built for agility. Originally bred to herd cattle, they are energetic working dogs. Beyond their striking coat, Corgis are family-friendly companions cherished for their playful and agreeable nature. Whether Pembroke or Cardigan, the Corgi’s black, white, and brown markings are an essential part of this breed’s distinctive look and legacy.
Dachshund
Dachshunds are low-slung scent hounds known for their elongated bodies and short stubby legs. They come in three coat varieties – smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired. Among the types, wirehaired Dachshunds typically display the most prominent tricolor pattern. This includes a base color of black or chocolate with tan highlights mixed throughout. White markings often appear on the face, chest, feet, neck, and tip of the tail. The wiry coat shows off shadings of black, brown, and white for a striking visual effect.
Beyond their coat, Dachshunds have narrow tapered heads and a long muscular trunk. Their undersized legs are in proportion to their elongated spine. Although small in stature, Dachshunds are spirited, brave dogs originally bred to hunt badgers and other burrow-dwelling animals. The tri-coloring seen in the wirehaired variety provides camouflage when working underground through dirt and vegetation. Their bold coat pattern contributes to the Dachshund’s distinctive profile.
Conclusion
When considering dog breeds with black, white, and brown coloring, the Beagle, Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, Corgi, and Dachshund are top contenders. While the precise pattern varies, all display the classic tricolor look in different ways. The Beagle’s black saddle and white legs accentuated with brown spots create a handsome picture. Aussies and Border Collies flaunt organized patches of black, white, and tan that showcase their herding heritage. Corgis’ black and white bodies punctuated with red really make their colors pop. And the Dachshund’s wiry tri-colored coat provides camouflage and a lively look.
No matter the placement, the combination of black, white, and brown produces eye-catching dogs with beauty and character. From working dogs to family companions, these breeds exemplify the appeal of the tricolor pattern. So if you seek a dog with this signature black, white, and brown look, one of these versatile breeds may be the perfect match. With their attractive coats and lively personalities, you’re sure to find a perfect tri-colored dog to brighten your life.
References
| Breed | Typical Tricolor Pattern |
| Beagle | White base with black back and shoulders, brown spots |
| Australian Shepherd | Black or merle base with tan and white markings on face, legs, chest |
| Border Collie | Black base with tan and white markings on face, legs, chest, underside |
| Corgi | Black and white base with tan points on face, legs, sides, eyes |
| Dachshund | Black or chocolate base with tan highlights throughout, white points |
| Breed | Average Height | Average Weight |
| Beagle | 13-15 inches | 20-30 pounds |
| Australian Shepherd | 18-23 inches | 40-65 pounds |
| Border Collie | 18-22 inches | 30-45 pounds |
| Corgi | 10-13 inches | 25-30 pounds |
| Dachshund | 5-9 inches | 16-32 pounds |