Brindle Dachshund Guide: Rare Stripes, Big Personality

It was at Newtown dog park that I first saw a brindle dachshund in the wild. His name was Ziggy. From a distance, I thought he was wearing a tiger-striped jumper. But no — that was his coat. A warm brown with irregular dark stripes down his back and legs, like shadows cast through wooden blinds.

He had the classic dachshund shape, the same stubborn energy as Maple, but with a coat that felt… different. Special.

Brindle is one of those patterns that gets people talking — and Googling. So if you’ve ever typed “are brindle dachshunds rare” or wondered whether those stripes are real, this guide is for you.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/16Fv1wueTOHJoumDrOX1INymJq_tElNg-fIigkkFKMwQ/edit?usp=sharing

These scores are based on average experiences across the breed. Every Brindle Dachshund is a little different, but this will give you a head start.

A brindle dachshund has a coat marked with dark stripes across a lighter base color — usually red, tan, or fawn. The pattern resembles tiger stripes but varies widely in intensity. Some brindles have subtle hints on their legs and chest; others have bold, full-body markings that demand attention.

Importantly, brindle is a pattern, not a color. It overlays an existing base coat, meaning it can appear across smooth, long-haired, and even piebald dachshunds. It’s entirely natural and completely one of a kind — no two brindles are ever alike.

Read more about the brindle miniature dachshund and how this pattern expresses across smaller varieties.

Yes — brindle dachshunds are one of the rarer coat patterns in the breed.

Here’s why:

• The brindle gene is dominant, but not commonly selected for in standard breeding programs
• It’s often mistaken for other coat types in photos (like shaded red)
• Some brindle puppies don’t fully reveal their striping until weeks or months after birth
• Ethical breeders tend to focus on health and temperament first, so brindle is rarely produced on demand

Despite their rarity, brindle dachshunds are fully recognized and loved across companion households — and once you’ve met one, you won’t forget them.

Learn more about brindle dachshund puppies, including how the pattern develops as they grow.

The brindle pattern is produced by the K^br allele at the K locus. It’s a dominant gene, which means a puppy only needs one copy to express striping — but the degree of visibility depends on the coat’s base color, length, and other modifying genes.

• Brindle usually appears on red or fawn coats, where the contrast is most visible
• In long-haired dachshunds, the pattern tends to soften and blend
• It’s genetically distinct from dapple, sable, or shaded red — though it’s sometimes mislabelled
• When paired with piebald, it creates unique multi-patterned coats

Explore the brindle piebald dachshund to see how these genes interact.

If you’re curious about coat patterns more broadly, Embark Vet’s guide to dog coat genetics is a great visual reference.

This variety is for those who love a little drama — in the best way. A brindle long haired dachshund pairs the soft flow of long fur with striking (or sometimes subtle) tiger striping.

Discover care tips and more in our brindle long-haired dachshund guide.

A brindle piebald dachshund is a rarity among rarities. These dogs have a white base coat from the piebald gene and brindle patches that create a layered, abstract appearance — like paint strokes on canvas.

You might see:

• One brindled ear and one white
• Large striped patches on the back or near the eyes
• Symmetrical or asymmetrical patterns — each one unique

This combination is purely aesthetic, but requires careful breeding to avoid excessive white coverage, which in some breeds has been linked to hearing concerns.

See real examples in our article on the brindle piebald dachshund.

If you’re looking for a brindle dachshund puppy, you’ll need patience — and a sharp eye.

Here’s what to expect:

• Brindle markings might not be visible at birth — they often darken and develop with age
• Some breeders may list brindle puppies as red or fawn — always ask for photos of the parents
• Reputable breeders will focus on health and temperament first, not just coat pattern
• Ethical pricing matters — rarity shouldn’t inflate cost unfairly

For more advice, explore our brindle dachshund puppy guide.

The brindle pattern doesn’t require special care — but keeping the coat healthy helps that striping stay vibrant.

Additional Tips:

• Use color-safe dog shampoo to maintain contrast in the coat
• Limit excessive sun exposure, which can fade the darker stripes
• Clean white areas on piebalds with a damp cloth to avoid staining

Grooming is also bonding time. It’s how I discovered Maple’s first tangle behind her ear — and a great excuse to slow down after a long walk.

Brindle dachshunds are, at heart, classic doxies — independent, clever, and absolutely in charge of the living room.

You can expect:

• Fierce loyalty (especially to one person)
• Bold, expressive energy
• Protective tendencies (toys, beds, even socks)
• An extra dose of confidence — or what some would call sass

There’s no proven link between color and temperament, but many owners say brindles seem to “know” they’re a little different. They don’t just walk — they strut.

If you’re drawn to dogs with personality and a unique look, a brindle dachshund might be your match.

They’re a great fit for:

• Families who value individuality
• People who love dachshund energy but want a less common coat
• Households ready to meet a few breeders or waitlists to find the right pup

But keep in mind:

• They’re not available everywhere, especially in long-haired or piebald combinations
• Ethical breeders won’t promise coat outcomes — temperament and health come first
• Rescue groups occasionally have brindles available — don’t overlook adoption