Tricolored dog breeds, with their distinct and beautifully marked coats, bring a unique splash of color to the canine world. These dogs carry three colors in their coats, typically combining black, white, and tan hues.
The appearance of tricoloration is a genetic marvel and varies widely among different breeds, giving each tricolored dog a singular pattern that’s as individual as a fingerprint.
Whether you’re an active individual seeking a high-energy companion or a family looking for a gentle pet, there’s likely a tricolored breed that matches your lifestyle.
From small breeds suited for apartment living to larger canines that thrive on open spaces, the diversity among these breeds is immense.
Known for more than just their appearance, many tricolored dog breeds are cherished for their intelligence, loyalty, and temperament, which makes them fantastic pets for a variety of owners.
Key Takeaways
- Tricolored dog breeds exhibit a three-color coat pattern.
- There is a tricolored dog breed suited for almost every lifestyle.
- These tricolored dog breeds are revered for their unique appearance along with their distinct personality traits.
Popular Tricolored Dog Breeds
Tricolored dog breeds are not only visually striking with their distinct coat patterns but also come with a variety of temperaments and sizes to fit different lifestyles. We’ll explore several breeds that showcase beautiful tricolored coats, taking into account their origins, size, personality, and suitability for various owners.
🐶 Bernese Mountain Dog 🫶
Now we come to our first Tricolored Dog Breeds. Hailing from the Swiss Alps, the gentle giant known as the Bernese Mountain Dog carries a tricolored mantle. With a history as farm dogs, these canines are remarkable for their devotion and willingness to please.
Known for their gentle and affectionate nature, they excel in companionship and are perfect for families looking for a patient and loyal pet.
Origin: Switzerland is the birthplace of this breed.
Size: 23-28 inches, 70-115 lbs
Characteristics: Affectionate, Loyal, Intelligent, friendly and calm demeanor
Suitability: Great for active individuals with space
🫶 Beagle 🐶
The Beagle, tracing back to England, stands as a small to medium pack hunter renowned for its acute sense of smell and tracking abilities. Typically peppy and friendly, Beagles serve as wonderful family pets.
They are curious and merry, with a friendly disposition that makes them great for active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Origin: The Beagle hails from England
Size: 13-16 inches, 20-30 lbs
Characteristics: Friendly, Curious, Merry
Suitability: Ideal for families and active individuals
🐶 Basenji 🫶
The Basenji, Africa‘s “barkless dog,” is a small to medium-sized hound. Adults usually weigh about 22 to 24 pounds and stand roughly 16 to 17 inches tall.
They are poised and independent, suitable for owners who appreciate a quiet and cat-like demeanor in their canine companion.
Origin: The Basenji, Africa’s “barkless dog
Size: 16-17 inches, 22-24 lbs
Characteristics: poised, independent
Suitability: Owners appreciating quiet and independent
🫶 Australian Shepherd🐶
Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd originated in the United States. They grow to be a medium to large breed, around 40 to 65 pounds and 18 to 23 inches in height.
These dogs have high energy and intelligence, making them ideal partners for active lifestyles and dog sports enthusiasts.
Origin: Australian Shepherd, a true American
Size: 18-23 inches, 40-65 lbs
Characteristics: highy energy, intelligence
Suitability: Great for active individuals
🐶 Collie 🫶
The Collie, famed for its role in ‘Lassie‘, originates from the highlands of Scotland and England. Collies are known for their herding skills and loyal nature, making them stellar family pets.
With their graceful stance and intelligent eyes, they are suitable for families and those interested in training and herding activities.
Origin: Scotland and England
Size: 22-26 inches, 50-75 lbs
Characteristics: Devoted, Graceful, Proud
Suitability: Suited for families and work environments
🫶 Pembroke Welsh Corgi🐶
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi, coming from Wales, is stout and small, usually under 30 pounds and about 10 to 12 inches tall.
Corgis are known for their friendly and vigilant nature, suited to both apartment living and countryside homes, where they can be both a companion and an alert watchdog.
Origin: This breed comes from Pembrokeshire, Wales.
Size: They are typically 10-12 inches tall and weigh up to 30 pounds.
Characteristics: Alert and affectionate, they are excellent for families and as work dogs for herding.
🐶 Australian Cattle Dog 🫶
The Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Blue Heeler, is a sturdy medium-sized breed. These dogs typically weigh 35 to 50 pounds and stand at 17 to 20 inches tall.
Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd was actually developed on ranches in the United States. These agile herders are valued for their keen intelligence and high energy.
They are work-oriented and thrive in environments that offer physical and mental stimulation, making them best suited for active owners or those with a job for them to do.
Origin: Despite the name, this breed was developed in the United States.
Size: They range from 18-23 inches in height and weigh around 40-65 pounds.
Characteristics: Smart, Work-Oriented, Exuberant
Suitability: Perfect for active families, farms
🫶 Shetland Sheepdog🐶
The Shetland Sheepdogs, or Shelties, from the Shetland Islands of Scotland are also a Tricolored Dog Breeds. They weigh roughly 15 to 25 pounds and grow up to 13 to 16 inches tall.
With their intelligence and eagerness to please, they’re great for families or individuals interested in training and agility activities.
Origin: As the name implies, this breed comes from the Shetland Islands of Scotland.
Size: 13-16 inches, 15-25 lbs
Characteristics: Playful, Intelligent, Vocal
Suitability: Good for active households with room for exercise
🐶 Pit Bull 🫶
The term Pit Bull can refer to several breeds but is often used to describe the American Pit Bull Terrier. These dogs can vary in size but generally weigh 30 to 85 pounds and stand 17 to 22 inches tall.
Known for their strength and confidence, they require an owner who can provide firm, consistent training and socialization.
Origin: They originated in the United States.
Size: 17-21 inches, 30-60 lbs
Characteristics: Loyal, Strong, Energetic
Suitability: Best suited for experienced dog owners who can provide firm, consistent training and ample physical exercise. Ideal for active households with secure outdoor space.
🫶 Chihuahua🐶
The Chihuahua hails from Mexico and is one of the smallest dog breeds. They usually weigh under 6 pounds and are about 6 to 9 inches tall.
Despite their size, they have a bold personality and are well-suited for someone looking for a small yet fierce companion.
Origin: This breed originated in Mexico, specifically named after the state of Chihuahua.
Size: 5-8 inches, 2-6 lbs
Characteristics: Lively, Alert, Devoted
Suitability: Suitable for apartment living and less active households. Ideal for individuals or families looking for a small, portable companion. Requires minimal exercise but benefits from regular socialization and mental stimulation.
🐶 Entlebucher Mountain Dog 🫶
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog originates from Switzerland and is the smallest of the Swiss mountain dogs. They weigh 40 to 65 pounds and range from 16 to 21 inches in height.
An active and loyal companion, they’re best with families or individuals who lead a dynamic lifestyle. Known for being excellent working dogs, they thrive in environments where they have a job to do.
Origin: This breed comes from the Entlebuch region in Switzerland.
Size: 16-21 inches, 45-65 lbs
Characteristics: Energetic, Intelligent, Loyal
Suitability: Best suited for active households with ample space for exercise. Ideal for families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities and can provide regular physical and mental stimulation.
🫶 Cavalier King Charles Spaniel🐶
With regal lineage from the United Kingdom, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is cherished for its charming and sweet demeanor, ideal for companionship and as a lapdog.
Affectionate and adaptable, they fit well with all types of families or singles who desire a loving lapdog.
Origin: United Kingdom is where these charming dogs come from.
Size: At full growth, they’re about 12-13 inches tall and weigh between 13-18 pounds.
Characteristics: With a gentle and affectionate nature, they are perfect companions for those seeking a smaller, less active breed.
Suitability: Excellent for companionship and families
🐶 Cocker Spaniel 🫶
Cocker Spaniels, originating from United Kingdom, stand around 13.5 to 15.5 inches tall and weigh 20 to 30 pounds.
With their gentle and happy nature, they are ideal for families and those seeking a companion for varied activities, including simple cuddles at home.
They are well-suited for both city and suburban living, as long as they get daily walks and playtime. Known for their beautiful, wavy coats, they require regular grooming to keep them looking their best.
Origin: This breed originated in the United Kingdom, specifically developed for hunting woodcock.
Size: 13.5-15.5 inches, 20-30 lbs
Characteristics: Affectionate, Playful, Gentle
Suitability: Ideal for families and individuals who can provide ample attention and regular exercise. Great for those looking for a loving companion with a friendly disposition.
🫶 English Setter🐶
Our last Tricolored Dog Breeds are the English Setter. They has roots in England and is a medium to large breed, weighing in at 45 to 80 pounds and growing up to 23 to 27 inches tall.
Known for their friendly and mild-mannered character, they are a match for active families who can give them room to run.
English Setters require regular grooming due to their long, silky coats and benefit from a home with a yard where they can run and play. They thrive in environments where they receive ample attention and mental stimulation.
Origin: The English Setter originated in England and was primarily bred for hunting game birds such as quail and pheasant.
Size: They grow up to 23-27 inches and weigh between 45-80 pounds.
Characteristics: Friendly, Energetic, Gentle
Suitability: Ideal for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities and can provide plenty of exercise. Excellent for those who appreciate a loyal and affectionate companion.
🐶 Bull Terrier 🫶
The Bull Terrier is from England. This stout and muscular breed generally weighs 50 to 70 pounds and stands about 21 to 22 inches tall.
They possess a unique personality, being both playful and mischievous, and need an owner who can handle their robust nature with a good sense of humor.
Bull Terriers are known for their strong-willed nature and require consistent training and socialization from an early age. They thrive in environments where they are given ample attention and interaction with their owners.
This breed is loyal and affectionate but may not be suitable for first-time dog owners due to their independent and sometimes stubborn temperament. Regular exercise and a secure yard are important to keep them happy and healthy.
If you are looking for a dog for first-time owners, we recommend our article on this topic.
Origin: The Bull Terrier was developed in England in the 19th century as a fighting dog, but it has since become a popular companion breed.
Size: 21-22 inches, 50-70 lbs
Characteristics: Energetic, Stubborn, Playful
Suitability: Best suited for active families or individuals who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Summary of the Popular Tricolored Dog Breeds
Here find you out Summery of Tricolored Dog Breeds:
| Dog Breed | Origin | Weight (Pounds) | Height (Inches) | Ideal Owner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bernese Mountain Dog | Switzerland | 70-115 | 23-27.5 | Families seeking a patient and loyal pet |
| Beagle | England | 20-30 | 13-15 | Active individuals or families |
| Basenji | Africa | 22-24 | 16-17 | Owners appreciating quiet and independent |
| Australian Shepherd | United States | 40-65 | 18-23 | Active lifestyles, dog sports enthusiasts |
| Collie | Scotland/N.E. England | 50-70 | 22-26 | Families, good with children |
| Pembroke Welsh Corgi | Wales | <30 | 10-12 | Apartment living, countryside homes |
| Australian Cattle Dog | Australia | 35-50 | 17-20 | Active owners, work-oriented roles |
| Shetland Sheepdog | Scotland | 15-25 | 13-16 | Training and agility enthusiasts |
| Pit Bull | United States | 30-85 | 17-22 | Firm, consistent trainers and socialization |
| Chihuahua | Mexico | <6 | 6-9 | Owners seeking a small, bold companion |
| Entlebucher Mtn Dog | Switzerland | 40-65 | 16-21 | Dynamic lifestyle families |
| Cavalier King Charles | United Kingdom | 13-18 | 12-13 | Families, singles wanting a loving lapdog |
| Cocker Spaniel | Spain | 20-30 | 13.5-15.5 | Companion for varied activities |
| English Setter | England | 45-80 | 23-27 | Active families with room to run |
| Bull Terrier | England | 50-70 | 21-22 | Owners with humor for playful pets |
Additional Tricolored Dog Breeds:
Here you can find a small list of other tricolored dog breeds.
- Basset Hound: A French breed with a keen sense of smell and a laid-back personality, well-suited for families.
- Great Dane: German roots, holds a gentle giant status, fit for families with enough space for their large size.
- Dachshund: Originally German, this little hunter is spunky and curious, great for those who appreciate a lively character.
- American Foxhound: An American breed, they’re sociable and good-natured, a match for active families.
- Jack Russell Terrier: Developed in England, they are full of energy, best for active individuals.
- Rough Collie: Known for their lush tricolored coat, they are gentle and intelligent, making them great family dogs.
Genetics Behind Tricoloration
Tricoloration in dogs is a fascinating example of how specific genetic combinations manifest in a pet’s coat color.
It’s determined by the interaction between dominant and recessive genes, which can create an array of common color patterns across various breeds.
Dominant and Recessive Genes
Dog coat colors and patterns are dictated by multiple genes, with each gene having a dominant or recessive version.
Dominant genes will express a trait even if only one copy is present, while recessive genes require two copies, one from each parent, to manifest a trait.
For a dog to exhibit tricoloration, it often needs to inherit the recessive genes for the tan point pattern, which is symbolized by at/at in genetics language.
Dogs that are solid white, dominant black, or carry the recessive red can still have the genetic makeup for tan points without showing the tan colors visibly if they are homozygous at the at/at locus.
Common Color Patterns
A tricolor coat typically encompasses black, white, and tan hues arranged in various patterns, often influenced by the A-Locus, which determines the location and presence of tan points.
The presence of the allele ky/ky at the K locus may also permit the expression of the tricolor pattern, provided that the dog carries the ay allele that allows for fawn or sable colors as part of its genetic makeup.
Tricoloration can also intersect with other color modifiers like merle, as in the case of breeding a tri-color with a bi-blue Shetland Sheepdog, potentially producing pups with both merle and tri-color genes.
Our Opinion on Tricolored Dog Breeds
Tricolored dog breeds display a unique and varied coat pattern and typically house a combination of three colors.
In this article, we will provide you with a summary of tricolored dog breeds. We’ll showcase not only their stunning appearance but also give you a deeper understanding of their personalities and suitable environments.
These dog breeds often possess a rich tapestry of colors, usually black, white, and tan/brown, which can come in a variety of shades and patterns.
While their appearance is certainly eye-catching, potential owners should consider more than just aesthetics.
Tricolored breeds can be wonderful, loyal pets. They offer a range of advantages such as easy identification and unique looks. However, they also come with challenges such as potential grooming requirements depending on the breed.
Each breed’s characteristics and how they might fit into your life vary widely.
Some are perfect for families and thrive in a busy household, while others may suit active individuals or those with ample outdoor space.
It’s vital to choose a dog whose energy level and temperament fit your lifestyle to ensure a harmonious relationship.
We believe that thorough research and a realistic assessment of your current living situation are critical before deciding to bring a tricolored furry friend into your home.
With such a responsibility, you are not just gaining a pet, but a lifelong companion.
FAQ for Tricolored Dog Breeds
What breed of dog is tri-colored?
The Beagle is a prominent example of “Tricolored Dog Breeds,” featuring a coat with black, white, and brown patches. These small to medium-sized hounds are known for their friendly demeanor and excellent scent-tracking abilities.
What breeds are triple coated?
The term “triple coated” typically refers to breeds with three distinct layers of fur, not coat colors. However, “Tricolored Dog Breeds” like the Bernese Mountain Dog have a thick double coat and a tricolor pattern of black, white, and rust.
What breed is a tri color spaniel?
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a notable example of “Tricolored Dog Breeds,” featuring a coat with black, white, and tan markings. This breed is known for its affectionate nature and elegant appearance.
If you liked our article about the Tricolored Dog Breeds or if you know other breeds. Then be sure to let us know in the comments.
