Black and Tan Dachshund: Classic Look, Fierce Love

Maple has a friend named Archie. He’s bold, curious, and walks like he owns the footpath. I first met him while I was up on the Gold Coast visiting friends one spring — we were sitting outside BSKT Café in Mermaid Beach, sipping coffee in the morning sun, and Archie trotted past like he’d booked the table and owned the cafe. He’s a black and tan dachshund, and every time I see one, I’m reminded why this coat has been beloved for generations.

There’s something unmistakable about the contrast — that deep, glossy black coat paired with those caramel-tan points above the eyes, on the chest, and around the paws. It’s not flashy, but it always stands out. Classic. Balanced. A little formal, but full of fun.

This guide is your definitive introduction to the black and tan dachshund, the most iconic of the breed’s many colors. Whether you’re deciding between coat types, considering a puppy, or just deep-diving into the world of dachshund genetics — you’re in the right place.

A black and tan dachshund has a rich, black base coat with sharply defined tan markings. These tan “points” typically appear:

• Above the eyebrows
• On the cheeks and muzzle
• On the chest and legs
• Beneath the tail

This coat pattern is genetically dominant and one of the most common in dachshunds globally — making it a go-to for many new owners. But don’t mistake “common” for “basic.” This coat is stunning in its simplicity.

The black and tan miniature dachshund might be small in size, but they’re oversized in confidence. These dogs are typically:

• Under 11 lbs (5 kg)
• Around 5–6 inches tall at the shoulder
• Agile, expressive, and often very fast for their size

They’re especially popular in urban areas due to their portability, but don’t expect them to act small. These minis often think they’re 10x their actual size.

Common personality traits:

• Spirited and cheeky
• Bond tightly with their humans
• Can be a little bossy if not trained early

Read more: Black and Tan Miniature Dachshund

The black and tan long haired dachshund is beloved for its flowing, feathered coat — and its gentler nature. While every dog is unique, long-haired dachshunds are often described as:

• Slightly more mellow than their smooth-coated cousins
• Affectionate and sensitive
• Lovers of routines, snuggles, and quiet mornings

Their elegant coats shine beautifully in natural light, with tan points that seem to melt into the longer strands.

Grooming needs:

• Weekly brushing
• Occasional feather trimming (paws, ears, tail)
• Regular ear checks to prevent matting or buildup

 Learn more: Black and Tan Long Haired Dachshund

If you’re lucky enough to bring home a black and tan dachshund puppy, prepare yourself. These pups are high energy, highly intelligent, and full of personality from day one.

What to expect:

• Puppy tan points will appear soft but grow more distinct with age
• They’ll start testing boundaries early (and adorably)
• Early socialization and crate training are key
• Expect curiosity, cuddles, and more attitude than their size suggests

If you’re considering adding one to your home, this is one of the most loving and lively dachshund colors available.

Explore more: Black and Tan Dachshund Puppy

Black and tan dachshunds are:

• Bold and brave (sometimes a little too much so!)
• Loyal — they’ll often pick “their person” and follow them around
• Independent thinkers — not always obedient, but always clever
• Alert and talkative — they love to bark at doorbells, birds, and leaf shadows

They’re affectionate without being needy, and usually do well in both family households and with solo owners — as long as they get attention, mental stimulation, and snuggle time.

The black and tan dachshund traces its lineage back to the original working dachshunds of Germany, where they were used to track and flush out badgers and other burrow-dwellers. The tan points made it easier to distinguish them from game in the field.

Over time, the coat remained popular not just for its practicality, but for its balanced, elegant appearance. It’s still the most common dachshund color in the world.

Fun fact: Most cartoon and illustrated dachshunds are drawn as black and tan — it’s become the archetypal look.

• Sleek, close to the body
• Low-maintenance
• Wipe-down-friendly

• Soft, flowing, and elegant
• Moderate maintenance
• Needs weekly brushing

• Coarse and bristly
• Charming in a scruffy sort of way
• Usually with bushy eyebrows and beard

• Use a soft-bristle brush for smooth coats
• For long-haired coats, use a pin brush or slicker
• Bathe monthly or as needed
• Regularly clean ears and check paws for debris

Training a black and tan dachshund is rewarding — and sometimes humbling.

They’re extremely intelligent, which means they get bored quickly. They respond well to:

• Short, positive-reinforcement sessions
• Food rewards (tiny ones — they gain weight easily!)
• Consistent boundaries
• Early socialization with people, kids, and dogs

The earlier you start, the more confident and balanced your Doxie will be.