It’s the only breed in the entire AKC Hound Group that allows the color, “Isabella,” and that would be the Dachshund, a breed that has an almost dizzying array of accepted colors (fifteen) and markings (six).

Four base colors (red, black, chocolate and sable), solid coats with or without tan points, possible dilute coloring, and three possible patterns or combinations of patterns coupled with the fact that the breed also comes in two sizes (AKC) makes the Dachshund a veritable smorgasbord of options. (As an aside, the breed standard with the UK’s Kennel Club indicates that the pied, tricolor, and the dilute colors, Isabella and Blue, are highly undesirable). For fun, be sure to read about the legend of the Isabella color.

The large pool of colors makes color genetics in Dachshunds very complicated, but it’s important for Dachshund breeders to have a working knowledge of it to avoid unacceptable colors, patterns, or health problems. The Dilution gene, for example, is a recessive, and two copies of it are needed to produce a dilute color. The gene impacts the dog’s base color, i.e., Chocolate and Tan/Cream switches to Isabella (fawn), and Black and Tan/Cream changes to Blue and Tan/Cream. More to the point, dilutes (Isabella and Blue), are thought by some to have health issues such as Dilution Alopecia which is manifested by very thin coat, and highly sensitive skin.  Breeders also need to be aware of whether they’re about to breed a dapple. Two dapples bred together could end up with a combination known as double dapple, a combination that is potentially devastating for puppies that could be blind, deaf, or worse. It’s not easy being a heritage breeder, and buyer beware when dealing with someone who is selling double dapple puppies. In this breed (well, in all breeds, really), doing ones homework is hugely important.

A dandy site on Dachshund colors can be found here, but know that it’s written in the UK and may have different views from the AKC with regards to color.  To include, we invite all Dachshund owning readers to share pictures of their dogs, and please indicate their color!