Some people like small and white dog breeds – pups that resemble snowballs, while others prefer more exotic colors.
I’m not saying white is boring, but there are other, more interesting colors of a dog’s fur. One of them is brown. The color ‘brown’ is super versatile. It comes in so many lovely shades. That’s why it wasn’t so hard to create a list of small brown dog breeds!
Yes, small breeds because we’re a bit tired of bigger dogs like the Boxer or the Pitbull. We need our daily dose of cuteness, and we need it asap!
No matter if you’re buying a puppy or getting a rescue dog, the facts won’t change. Small brown pups are a delight. What’s so great about this color is that it isn’t linked to health problems like white, for example. There’s not a condition that strikes mostly brown dogs.
Well, that’s a relief!
The following 14 small brown dog breeds you’re about to meet are cuter than nuggets and sweeter than chocolate. These dogs are so adorable it’s unbelievable!
If the cuteness factor is what you’re looking for, then you must definitely check out the pups listed down below.
1. Dachshund
The signature color of Doxie dogs is definitely brown. Dachshunds are one of those small dog breeds with extra big temperaments. You can find these little pooches in long-haired as well as short-haired options. Short-haired Doxies are more common.
Dachshunds don’t grow past the 35-inch mark, and usually don’t weigh more than 32 pounds.
Dachshunds are active dogs, and they love to play outside. However, they don’t mind cuddling with you at the end of the day. Doxies can be a bit needy and clingy. Oh, and they will follow you around a lot.
Some Dachshunds might show signs of aggression. I’d like to point out that they are not born aggressive. That’s simply a lack of training and socializing.
Even though Doxies make great pets, they’re not perfect. After all, Doxies are not hypoallergenic. That’s what they miss to earn the status of the pawfect pet!
2. Chihuahua
Although it’s more usual to see a white Chihuahua or the bi-color option, brown Chihuahuas are still quite possible.
Meet the smallest pooch of all small brown dog breeds we have today! Chihuahuas can appear in all sorts of coat color combinations, ranging from dark brown to cream, white, and including pattern combinations, i.e., the merle Chihuahua.
Obviously, Chihuahua dogs are gorgeous! Depending on the actual type of the Chihuahua, you can either get a long-haired or a short-haired Chihuahua. Both are equally pretty.
What else is pretty about Chihuahuas is their devotion to their owner. Chihuahuas are feisty and loyal. They will bark at bigger dogs to chase them away. They might be tiny, but their courage is huge. Some people mistake this with aggression. While Chihuahuas can be aggressive, their barking isn’t necessarily a sign of it.
When you have a dog that loves his humans so much, it’s natural to hear them barking and yapping, trying to fight for their loved ones.
You might think that Chihuahuas are hypoallergenic dogs, but the truth is far from that. Chihuahuas are not hypoallergenic. They shed quite a lot for such a tiny dog. Those brown coat hairs will definitely be noticeable on your light-colored sofa!
3. Pomeranian
That small, bouncy, fluffy doggo is a Pomeranian, and he’s dying to meet you! Have you ever seen a dog breed that’s so happy, almost ecstatic? Pomeranians are definitely happy-go-lucky dogs. Their cheerful temperament lights up any room they come in.
As one of the friendliest dog breeds on this list of small brown dog breeds, Pomeranians are a delight to have. But, this is only the beginning. Let’s see why Poms are so great!
It’s the Pom’s physical appearance that makes people fall for them, but their temperament keeps people happy. Pomeranians are loyal dogs. Despite their small size, you can find them barking at bigger dogs simply because they believe they’re the ones in charge.
Pomeranians might have issues with their size around other dogs, thanks to their Napoleon Complex, but they don’t have issues with their good looks. They’re 11 inches and 7 pounds of pure perfection.
The Pom comes in many coat colors, including brown, as well as unusual options like the merle Pom and the lavender Pom.
The bad news is that they’re not hypoallergenic, and thus, they will shed. But, the good news is that you won’t mind brushing them because they’re so freakin’ cute!
4. French Bulldog
Brown or chocolate French Bulldogs are the thing.
Although Frenchies can come in other colors such as Isabella, black, and merle, brown is the one we’re interested in because it’s so attractive looking. The brown coat gives these dogs a friendlier appearance.
The reason why many people love Frenchies is their friendliness. These dogs are social butterflies, and they love spending time with humans whether it’s their family or other people. Frenchies are eager to please and quite cheerful, so don’t be surprised to see them acting all clownish.
Yup, Frenchies are little clowns of the canine world!
But, it’s not all play and no work with these doggos. Did you know that Frenchies are also super smart and highly trainable. I’ve never seen a Frenchie that doesn’t want to obey and complete a command. Potty training a Frenchie would be like a walk in the park!
Besides having a lovely temperament, Frenchies are known for their signature ears and smushy face. They’re pretty compact in size, and never grow past the 12-inch mark, nor do they weigh more than 30 pounds. This makes them ideal pets for small homes.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
If Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are cute, just imagine teacup Cavaliers. They’re absolutely to die for!
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of the prettiest looking dogs out there, and a true superstar on the list of small brown dog breeds. There’s something about their lovely face, silky hair, and tiny body that makes Cavaliers so desirable.
However, those aren’t the only things that are very special about Cavaliers. Their temperaments are impressive, too!
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are quite fearless for such small dogs. They’re loyal, and they put their humans on a pedestal where no one can approach them. Cavaliers are full of grace, and they’re super gentle. This makes them good dogs for families.
The color ‘brown’ is omnipresent in the canine world, including Cavaliers. The Cavalier has around 10 coat color combinations, and brown has to appear at least as a spot. These dogs are proud of their many shades of brown, which only helps with the cuteness factor.
What’s so great about these dogs is their lifespan. Cavaliers have a long life expectancy. Many of them have lived well past the expected 14 years. They’re generally healthy, have no major issues such as small legs or an elongated spine, which entitles them to spend lots of happy years with their owner.
6. Labradoodle
Did you think we could have this list without any of the popular Doodles? For some people, Doodles are the best dogs. We’re kinda on the same page because Doodles are simply pawsome, but other small brown dog breeds are equally worthy of our time.
The Labradoodle is definitely one of the most popular Doodles. This combination of a Poodle and a Labrador Retriever brings lots of joy to people mostly because they look so adorable.
Poodles come in many colors, and brown is quite common. Labradors are also popular as brown dogs. Besides many Labradoodle colors, we have to mention brown as one of the prettiest ones.
To have a Labradoodle as one of the members of small brown dog breeds, breeders need to mix mini or toy Poodles and Labradors. It’s the only way to achieve the small size. Otherwise, we would have a big, gentle giant with brown curls.
Labradoodles can also come as teacup Labradoodles. Naturally, this is a result of mixing the smallest Poodles and Labradors. Technically, it’s not very ethical, but you can’t deny the incredible cuteness.
Labradoodles are excellent family dogs with high energy levels and friendship that goes beyond everything. You definitely won’t make a mistake if you bring one into your family, especially not since this is a hypoallergenic doggo.
7. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus come in lots of different colors, and brown is one of the prettiest options. In fact, the brown coat is considered as a rare option, so if you have a brown Shih Tzu, consider yourself blessed.
Many people decide they want a Shih Tzu because Shihs are hypoallergenic dogs. What they don’t know is that Shih Tzus possess qualities that will make them love this breed even more.
As one of the sweetest companion dogs, the Shih Tzu is extremely loyal and will always stand by your side. These dogs will follow you around all the time, so make sure you hand out lots of belly rubs and praises. You can say they’re a bit like velcro dogs.
Still, Shih Tzus are pretty intelligent dogs, so you shouldn’t experience lots of trouble training them. They love to show what they’ve got just to make you happy.
I wouldn’t ask for a better companion dog than the sweet Shih Tzu.
And, I wouldn’t ask for a prettier small brown dog because he’s the true showstopper!
8. Scottish Terrier
Did you know that Scottish Terriers also come in every possible shade of brown? Black isn’t their only color.
Known for their floor-length hair and signature beard and mustaches, Scottish Terriers are an absolute delight. They were once used as hunting dogs, but now they’re purely companions ready to show you all the love they have for you.
Scottish Terriers are one of the most popular brown dog breeds. They’re compact-sized pooches, great for city living. Of course, you’ll need to exercise your Scottish Terrier, but they’re not too energetic like some other breeds.
What makes Scottish Terriers great family members isn’t only their sweet temperament. It’s their hypoallergenic status, too! Luckily, their long coat doesn’t shed, so you don’t have to vacuum the house all the time.
Scottish Terrier dogs are loyal to the bone, always ready to defend you. They have a small circle of people they trust, and they won’t let strangers get in no matter how hard they try. You have to earn the respect and the trust of a Scottish Terrier.
9. Affenpinscher
If you don’t recognize this dog, maybe you’ll know it under the name, Monkey Terrier.
Another small brown dog breed from the terrier group is here. Expect lots of energy, a cheerful temperament, and the bounciness that all terrier dogs have. Affenpinschers were once used as rodent hunters, so don’t be surprised with how active they are. These aren’t your typical cuddle pups.
The Affenpinscher is also one of the smallest dogs here, never growing past the 12-inch mark.
Originally from Germany, like the German Shepherd, the Affenpinscher has become pretty popular in the States. People love them for their friendliness and the fact that they don’t shed hair.
I predict lots of good years for the Affenpinscher. Their stunningly beautiful brown coat is just the beginning. Once you spend half an hour with this dog, you’ll realize how great Affenpinschers are.
10. Basenji
If I had to pick the best watch dog on this list, it would be the Basenji. This dog breed was once the perfect companion of the pharaohs. Today, they’re our perfect companions, ready to shower us with love.
Basenjis possess fine hunting skills and lots of energy, so you can even use them as working dogs. But, they prefer to snooze on the sofa and act like a cat. Yup, Basenjis have a cat-like demeanor. They’re more like cats than some cats are!
If a Basenji was a member of a toy breed group, he’d definitely be mistaken for an outgrown kitty. In fact, there are many Basenji mixes that come in various shapes and sizes, but still keep the Basenji’s cat-like demeanor.
Basenji dogs have a pleasant appearance. They come in lots of coat colors, including shades of brown. But, it’s not their good looks that will make you want a Basenji – it’s the fact that they’re the quietest dog breed.
Basenjis don’t bark. They howl or jodel. That’s how unique they are!
I assume you’ll have some issues with finding the right Basenji breeder in the States, so I brought you this list.
11. Basset Hound
Even though Basset Hounds usually come in tri-color options, the brown coat is still one of the prettiest Basset colors. Basically, any color that will help these dogs blend in with nature is desirable. Basset Hounds are hunting dogs; hence, the many shades of brown.
It’s so much easier to spot a Basset with lots of white color than a pure brown one, don’t you agree?
Bassets can appear as large dogs, but they’re short in terms of their height, so we’ll keep them on the list of the best small brown dog breeds.
What’s great about Bassets is that they’re super hardworking and eager to please their humans. They have an impeccable work ethic, and they seem to be ready to face any task you put before them. But, they’re not too energetic and ecstatic like other hunting dogs, i.e., Beagles.
These dogs have a docile temperament, They’ll get the work done their own way, which is usually super chill and relaxed.
While there’s a small chance that your Basset will be a working dog these days, these pups can still serve as excellent watchdogs, keeping an eye on your family when they’re not snoozing and pretending they’re lap dogs.
12. Australian Terrier
The brown color is present with the Australian Terrier, too! In fact, shades of brown, from solid brown to the combination of black and brown (or chocolate brown) are the only possibilities for this dog breed.
The Australian Terrier is a beautiful dog that’s not too popular in the States. But, I have a feeling their stunningly good looks will get them on the list of the most popular dog breeds.
The Australian Terrier is a great companion dog. You can easily bring them into a home with kids because they get along so great with the little ones.
The Australian Terrier is a sweet and gentle soul. I wouldn’t advise you to ignore them or forget to pay some attention to them because that would break their little heart. Australian Terriers are loving dogs that are made to be loved and give love in return. They’re not herding pooches or hunting companions like most small brown dog breeds.
Their medium to long coat in lovely shades of brown won’t cause you headaches because Australian Terriers are considered to be hypoallergenic.
13. Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles are one of the cutest dogs in the world. The Poodle breed comes in so many stunning coat colors. Of course, besides the popular options like the black Poodle or the white one, brown or chocolate is an option, too.
Personally, I find chocolate toy Poodles to be one of the best looking small brown dog breeds. You’ll love their deep shades of brown that range from almost rusty brown to hot cocoa brown. But, you’ll enjoy the fact that these are hypoallergenic dogs even more.
The Poodle breed is super easy to groom. They don’t shed hair or dander, and don’t have that unpleasant smell. You can get away with brushing only a few times a week. This could be a great time to bond with your pup.
Toy Poodles might be small, but they’re extremely feisty and territorial. I can add that these are dominant dogs that don’t take nonsense. New dog owners shouldn’t consider getting a Poodle puppy because they’re a handful when it comes to training.
Poodles are stubborn, and they like to have things their way all the time. If you can’t find a way to get them to listen to you, then you’re in a pickle.
14. Chow Chow
Lastly, we have one of the fluffiest dog breeds in the world!
Meet the Chow Chow – a dog with a coat so thick it will impress you. What else will impress you is the lovely shade of brown these dogs feature. Chow Chows come in other coat colors, too, but brown is definitely the most popular one, standing shoulder to shoulder with the orange coat.
Chow Chows are high-maintenance dogs. Arm yourself with lots of grooming tools and patience because you’ll spend half your week brushing their coat and making them look even more fluffy.
The Chow Chow dog breed is somewhat rare in the States, so expect to have issues finding the right Chow Chow breeder. Luckily, PupVine has your back, so check out this list if you’re looking for a Chow puppy.
What’s so special about these dogs is that they’re on the very border between being small brown dogs and medium-sized ones. But, most Chows are small under all that fluff, so let’s keep them on this list.
Final Thoughts
Which of the 14 small brown dog breeds is your favorite? The difference in size between these pups is natural. Some are bigger, some are smaller, but they’re all small pups and proud of it.
I bet you like all of our listed brown pooches. Remember to choose wisely when getting a puppy, especially since brown might be a rare color for some.
I advise you to look for a breeder who knows what he’s doing. Pick a person who puts the health status before any coat color. That’s the true beauty you’re looking for!
As I said in the beginning, the color ‘brown’ isn’t usually linked to any major health problem, so you can rest assured there won’t be any genetic conditions caused by this coat color.
The only thing left for you to do is pick a puppy and your favorite shade of brown!
Read Next: 19 Black And Brown Dog Breeds For Everyone’s Taste