Cosmetically speaking, a dog’s brindle coat is eye-catching, exotic, and complex. It’s commonly compared to tiger stripes, but the pattern is more subtle than a simple black stripe on a lighter coat. It’s more irregular, blended, and sophisticated.
A number of canine breeds wear brindle coats (so many that we can’t list them all here!), but they’re often short-haired dogs, and always thoroughly lovable. These brindled dogs are certainly easy on the eyes and captivating to watch, but their beauty is more than skin-deep. These breeds’ personalities are irresistible, joyous, and contagious, and their owners couldn’t be more in love.
1. American Bulldog
These tough guys can be aggressive with other dogs (and other species), but they’re big ol’ softies when it comes to humans. American Bulldogs are typically happy and friendly with new people and often play family protector to defend the home and keep watch over their territory. They love human interaction and will flop down at your feet for a good belly rub at the end of the day.
2. Boxer
The Boxer gets five stars when it comes to affection toward family members. This breed is also super kid-friendly and receptive to strangers. Boxers are highly intelligent, trainable, and intensely playful, but they can be stubborn and should receive training early.
They’re brave and patient creatures with big hearts (they’ll totally steal yours in short order). Despite their rather large size, they’re happy to climb up on the couch next to you and get snuggly.
3. Bull Terrier
These handsome egg-heads can be a bit bull-headed and stubborn, but they love playing sidekick to their human partners. Bull Terriers are extremely active and require regular and rigorous exercise.
When given normal social attention and training at a young age, Bull Terriers are quite fun-loving and affectionate, especially towards children.
4. Cardigan Welsh Corgi
These short-legged, fox-like canines were originally bred in Wales for herding purposes. Like many herding dogs, Cardigan Welsh Corgis need regular engagement and mental stimulation, so they do best with connected, playful owners who recognize their lively, athletic spirits.
These corgis may be rather short, but they carry themselves like big dogs with giant personalities. They’re dependable and loyal, and they always look after their tribe.
5. Cursinu
The Cursinu originated on the island of Corsica, France, as early as the 16th Century, and was primarily bred as a hunting dog. They’re especially devoted to their owners, and do best with a single human companion, rather than a brood of humans.
The Cursinu loves outdoor activity and makes a great buddy for runners and hikers. But they can also switch easily to relax mode once they’re indoors and make for a great Netflix-and-chill date.
6. Dachshund
These sassy little cuties somehow stuff huge personalities in their tiny little bodies. They love to be the center of attention and often put on the air of a bigger dog.
When meeting new dog friends, they’re likely to mouth off and play aggressive, but they almost never follow through with their “threats.” If you don’t mind the big talk, these encounters are plenty entertaining. Dachshunds do best with couples and single owners, however, because they can be territorial with small children.
7. Great Dane
This stately breed is one of the largest domesticated dogs. The Great Dane originated in Germany and was originally bred to hunt boar.
While they have a rather intimidating, deep bark (on top of their large build), these substantial dogs are extremely gentle and friendly. They’ve held on to their courage and tenacity but can temper that trait in family settings, where they’re loving, sweet, and a marvel to watch.
8. Treeing Tennessee Brindle
The Tennessee Treeing Brindle hails from the slice of America that stretches between the Ozark and Appalachian Mountains. They’re so named for their ability to chase prey up a tree and keep it there until a human hunter arrives.
These dogs have an uncanny sense of smell and a distinct voice that sounds like singing when they cry out. The Tennessee Treeing Brindle is trusty and dependable, and gets along well with humans, children, and other dogs.
9. Whippet
These lean, muscular speed machines are often confused with Greyhounds. While Whippets spring to life when allowed to explore outdoors, they also enjoy a quiet, calm afternoon on the couch with their owners.
Whippets are intelligent and gentle and get along easily with nearly everyone, but they do better with single owners or couples, rather than large families, as noisy, chaotic moments can make them anxious.