Guide · Dachshund
Dachshund colours and what they mean
Red, black and tan, chocolate, dapple – Dachshund colour names can be confusing. Here’s what the standard describes and what lies behind the terms. This is general breed information; for the colours of our puppies, just ask.
The colours in the FCI standard
- Solid: red; some black hairs are allowed, and a small white spot on the chest is tolerated;
- Two-coloured: deep black or brown (often called “chocolate”), each with tan markings above the eyes, on the muzzle, chest, legs and under the tail;
- Dapple (merle): a dark base colour with irregular grey or beige patches – no two dapples look alike;
- Brindle: red with dark striping.
All other colours and patterns are excluded by the FCI standard.
Names you’ll come across
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Red | Solid red, lighter or darker |
| Black and tan | Two-coloured: black with tan markings |
| Chocolate, brown and tan | Two-coloured: brown with markings |
| Dapple, merle | Mottled pattern on a dark base |
| Brindle | Red with dark stripes |
Dapples bred responsibly
Mating two dapple Dachshunds clearly raises the risk of eye and hearing problems in the puppies. Responsible breeders avoid these pairings. Ask about it – it’s a fair question.
Colour in a puppy
Red puppies often still have dark hair tips that can disappear with the adult coat. The tan markings on black-and-tan or brown-and-tan puppies usually become clearer over the first months. Dapple is visible from birth, but can be hard to make out in photos depending on the light.
So ask for photos and videos in daylight and for the colours of the parents.
Colour and coat type
The colours occur in both smooth and long coats. On a long-haired dog, red often looks softer and lighter because the light falls differently in the longer hair. More on coats in Dachshund coat types.
Colour and health
Apart from dapple, colour tells you nothing about temperament or health. What counts: the parents, the rearing, the paperwork and the breeder’s openness. Be wary of “rare” colours sold at a premium. What to check: Choosing a good breeder.
Frequently asked questions
What colours are your Dachshund puppies?
It depends on the litter. Message us and we’ll show you photos of the puppies and the parents.
Keep reading
Any questions?
Message Gianni or Aldo directly on WhatsApp. Tell us how you live and what you are looking for.
Our only location is Barletta, Italy.