What is the perfect shade of red? For some, it may be a warm, light golden color, or perhaps a deep, rusty dark. But the good news is that our pets can have almost any coat! In this article, we will give examples of what red dogs exist, small, medium, and large breeds with photos and names, and we will also tell you about the features of the color.

Although coat color shouldn’t be the main reason for choosing a pet, “fiery” beauties will definitely win your heart! The main thing is to remember that when choosing a dog, you need to consider many other factors. And don’t forget that your ideal pet can be a mixed breed: take a closer look at the dogs that are still waiting for their family in the shelter.

Features of the red color

What gives dog breeds their particular coat color? It’s all down to a complex genetic “puzzle.” We’ll try to explain it briefly and clearly.

The color of an animal’s fur depends on the pigment contained in the epidermis.. This pigment can only be of two types: eumelanin (responsible for black color) and pheomelanin (responsible for red or yellow). The combination of modifications of the genetic material provides the dog with a specific color of the coat.

So, a red dog can be:

• Bright red – this occurs if the upper layer of the skin lacks eumelanin pigments;
• Dark blond and chocolate – a diluted version of eumelanin, that is, black pigment;
• Fawn is a light tone with a high amount of pheomelanin pigments.

Red dog breeds

Do you dream of having a red-haired dog? Perhaps, in this article you will be able to choose the perfect pet for yourself. We have compiled a list of 50 dog breeds with fur of different shades: from almost orange to chocolate red. Some of the candidates presented may surprise you. Let’s get acquainted – breeds of red dogs with photos and names! There are dogs whose standard implies exclusively a single-color color, and there are spotted pets whose fur combines two or more colors. Some breeds suggest exclusively red coloring of the coat, while others can have several color options.

Little red dogs

Small dogs usually include animals weighing up to 10 kg. Often, these playful and affectionate pets are chosen by owners living in apartments: many small breeds require less physical activity and space than large animals. But remember – red breeds of miniature dogs need to be properly raised and trained, using the technique of positive reinforcement, just like pets of larger dimensions.

Pomeranian Spitz

Weight: 1.5-4 kg

Height: 18-24 cm

Coat: thick, straight, long

Country: Germany

The Pomeranian is a small, red-haired dog that resembles a toy. These pets are known for their easy and energetic nature, as well as their high level of intelligence. They are devoted to their owner and are easy to train. Spitz are suitable for apartment living and will be an excellent choice even for novice dog owners.

Miniature Pinscher (Zwergpinscher)

Weight: 4-6 kg

Height: 25-30 cm

Coat: thick, short, without undercoat

Country: Germany

At first glance, miniature pinschers resemble a miniature version of Dobermans. These dogs charm their owners with their extraordinary character, boundless energy and funny gait, which also makes them look like prancing horses. Smart and loyal pinschers will be ideal companions for active owners.

Brussels Griffon

Weight: 3-5 kg

Height: 18-20 cm

Wool: two types – hard and smooth

Country: Belgium

Brussels Griffons are cute dogs with a bright personality. Loyal, smart and eager to please their owners, these pets become full-fledged members of any family. Like all brachycephalic dogs, Griffons are susceptible to a number of respiratory diseases, which are worth finding out about in advance. But despite this, the breed is very popular.

Affenpinscher

Weight: 3-4 kg

Height: 24-28 cm

Coat: hard, long

Country: Germany

Despite their small size, Affenpinschers feel like true masters of life! Due to their unusual appearance and confident character, the dogs resemble either monkeys (their name is translated as monkey dog) or people. Affenpinschers require moderate care and are considered long-lived.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Weight: 5-8 kg

Height: 25-32 cm

Coat: Long, silky, may be slightly wavy

Country: UK

The little red dogs of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed are popular all over the world, and one look at them is enough to understand why. These charming, friendly pets can get along with anyone: they coexist well under one roof with other pets, as well as with children of different ages.

Petit Brabancon

Weight: 3-6 kg

Height: up to 28 cm

Coat: short, hard

Country: Belgium

Petit Brabancons belong to the group of small Belgian dogs. Playful and inquisitive babies become strongly attached to their owners. They differ from Belgian Griffons by the absence of a “beard” on the muzzle and shorter hair. They love to travel and quickly get used to new surroundings.

Pekingese

Weight: 3-5 kg

Height: 20-24 cm

Coat: long, hard, with dense undercoat

Country: China

Pekingese were originally bred to live in the palaces of Chinese emperors, and they still seem to remember their origins. These smart, loving, and affectionate dogs make devoted pets. They do not require much exercise, but their luxurious fur does require care.

Chihuahua

Weight: 1.8-2.7 kg

Height: 15-20 cm

Coat: longhaired and shorthaired

Country: Mexico

Despite their miniature size, Chihuahuas have a character that would be appropriate for a large dog. They become devoted companions and love to be near their owner, no matter what he is doing. In addition, Chihuahuas are a vigilant breed, ready to warn their person of any danger.

Dachshund

Weight: mini – up to 6 kg, standard – up to 12 kg

Height: 14-35 cm, depending on size

Coat: smooth-haired, wire-haired and long-haired

Country: Germany

Nimble red dogs, easily recognizable due to their long body, have long been the favorites of many families. Due to their size and unpretentiousness in care, dachshunds can adapt to almost any living conditions. These pets will be happy to play with the owner no less than the subsequent lazy rest on the couch.

Norfolk Terrier

Weight: 4.5-6 kg

Height: 23-25 cm

Coat: hard, does not shed

Country: England

Active and fearless, Norfolk Terriers love to release their energy during long walks or playing ball. These positive and sociable dogs are great for active families and get along well with children, although they may be skeptical about small pets as friends.

Red medium sized dogs

Medium dogs are generally considered to be animals weighing between 25 and 60 pounds. These breeds are often intelligent, active, and easy to train. They may require a certain amount of exercise, so make sure you have enough time to walk and exercise your pet before getting one.

Poodle

Weight: 5-25 kg depending on size

Height: 24-60 cm depending on size

Coat: curly or corded

Country: France

The Poodle is a breed of red-haired dog that literally embodies the word “fluffy.” Their bright minds and devoted hearts make them ideal family pets and active companions. The American Kennel Club recognizes three main breed types: the Toy Poodle, the Miniature Poodle, and the Standard (or King’s Poodle).

Shiba Inu

Weight: 8-12 kg

Height: 35-41 cm

Coat: short, dense

Country: Japan

Owners note that Shiba Inus are similar in character to cats. These cute dogs value freedom of choice and are not always ready to cuddle with their owner, although they love their people very much. They are smart, easily learn commands and, with proper socialization, can become best friends for children.

English Bulldog

Weight: 16-25 kg

Height: 33-14 cm

Coat: soft, smooth, close-lying

Country: UK

Playful and loving, English Bulldogs are perhaps one of the most recognizable dogs in the world. Although they were originally bred to be stubborn and courageous working dogs, they have evolved into affectionate, family-oriented animals who love to snuggle up on the couch.

French Bulldog

Weight: 8-15 kg

Height: 28-35 cm

Coat: short, smooth, harsh, without undercoat

Country: France

If your dream pet is a small, slightly lazy comedian, meet French Bulldogs! These dogs are easy to care for, love to socialize, and feel comfortable even in a small apartment. Frenchies become ideal family companions and friends for small children.

Cairn Terrier

Weight: 6-7.5 kg

Height: 28-31 cm

Coat: thick, double, hard

Country: Scotland

Cairn Terriers are playful, intelligent, and loyal companions who love attention from people. Able to relate well to other dogs and other pets, these dogs make excellent family pets. All they need to be happy is moderate exercise.

Barbet

Weight: 17-28 kg

Height: 53-65 cm

Coat: long, thick, curly, waterproof

Country: France

The small red-haired Barbet is easily recognizable by its lush locks and distinctive “beard.” Although originally bred to help hunters, today Barbets fit perfectly into any family. Their cheerful nature and friendly attitude make every day more joyful.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Weight: 9-12 kg

Height: 25-30 cm

Coat: Straight, with a thick, dense undercoat

Country: UK

Cute ears, funny paws and a good-natured smile of the Corgi made millions of people fall in love with this breed. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are smart animals that are quite easy to train. From their herding ancestors, the dogs inherited their energy, so today they still need physical activity.

Sheltie (Shetland Sheepdog)

Weight: 6-7 kg

Height: 35.5-37 cm

Coat: Double, long, coarse topcoat and soft, short undercoat

Country: Scotland

Shelties have earned a reputation for being not only the cutest dogs, but also highly intelligent. They have long been used to herd cattle on the Shetland Islands in Scotland, so the pets are attentive, hardworking and easy to train. Regular exercise is important for them, but they also love to relax with their dog owner.

American Pit Bull Terrier

Weight: 14-27 kg

Height: 43-53 cm

Coat: Short, smooth and even

Country: USA

American Pit Bull Terriers are known for their boundless loyalty to their owners. If you give your pit bull your heart, it will most likely become your second shadow and follow you everywhere. The main thing is to train the dog from puppyhood using positive reinforcement, and then you will get a friend for life.

Basenji

Weight: 9-11 kg

Height: 40-43 cm

Coat: short, soft, without undercoat

Country: Central Africa

Despite their small size, Basenjis are strong and determined pets with a huge reserve of energy. They can be quite willful and mischievous, and therefore this breed is better suited to experienced dog owners. To keep your pet happy, we recommend directing its activity to sports.

Karelo-Finnish Laika

Weight: 9-15 kg

Height: 38-50 cm

Coat: double, thick, medium length

Country: Russia, Finland

The Karelo-Finnish Laika is a breed that originated on the border between Russia and Finland. These pets are highly intelligent and independent, making them excellent companion animals. They are devoted to their owners and are great for active families.

Cirneco dell’Etna (Sicilian Greyhound)

Weight: 10-13 kg

Height: 45-50 cm

Coat: short, hard, sheds little

Country: Italy

Cirneco dell’Etna are slender and elegant hounds from Sicily. If you lead an active lifestyle, they can be great sports partners, as they are endowed with natural athleticism and agility. Dogs do not require specific care, they are ideal for urban living.

Shar Pei

Weight: 20-25 kg

Height: 44-51 cm

Coat: short, hard, without undercoat

Country: China

The Shar Pei is easily recognized by its cute folds on its body, blue-black tongue, and unique face. This smart, independent pet is created to please its family and provide them with safety. If you are ready to devote time to socialization, training, and health of the dog, the Shar Pei will become your best friend!

Border Collie

Weight: 25-30 kg

Height: 50-56 cm

Coat: can be smooth-haired or long-haired

Country: UK

Border Collies are intelligent dogs with a huge amount of energy and an inexhaustible interest in learning. These animals are happy to live with an active owner who will engage in sports and training with them. If you are looking for a playful, well-mannered and talented dog, this is the perfect choice!

Red Coonhound

Weight: 20-32 kg

Height: 53-69 cm

Coat: straight, short

Country: USA

During their existence, red coonhounds have proven themselves to be excellent search dogs, and their affectionate nature turns out to be a pleasant surprise for their owners. The dogs will become wonderful friends for families who enjoy sports and outdoor trips.

Welsh Springer Spaniel

Weight: 15-20 kg

Height: 46-48 cm

Coat: thick, soft, medium length with feathering

Country: UK

This breed of red dogs with long ears will be equally affectionate with all members of their family, especially children. Welsh Springer Spaniels are energetic and ready for any achievements: they will become ideal companions for running and hiking. Good-natured four-legged pets are distinguished by intelligence and love training, because this will allow them to spend more time with their owner.

Azawakh

Weight: 15-25 kg

Height: 60-74 cm

Coat: fine, short hairs

Country: Mali

The Azawakh is a breed of intelligent, playful, loyal, yet independent dogs. These dogs love their family more than anything else and always try to please their owners. If you are a runner, the Azawakh will be an ideal training partner and will happily take a nap with you afterwards.

Australian Cattle Dog

Weight: 13-28 kg

Height: 43-51 cm

Coat: short, hard

Country: Australia

If you are looking for an active companion who prefers to be by your side all day, the Australian Cattle Dog is the perfect choice! With their high intelligence and eagerness to please, they learn new commands quickly. These dogs require minimal grooming but need regular exercise.

Red Basset Fauve de Bretagne

Weight: 16-18 kg

Height: 32-38 cm

Coat: short, straight, hard

Country: France

Does your heart skip a beat when you see red dogs that are part of the shaggy breed? Then you will definitely fall in love with the Basset Fauve de Brittany! These dogs are distinguished by their friendly, playful nature and get along well with children. Another plus: Bassets’ coat repels dirt and is almost tangle-free, although weekly brushing will not hurt it.

English Cocker Spaniel

Weight: 14-16 kg

Height: 38-41 cm

Coat: smooth, silky, with feathering

Country: England

English Cocker Spaniels have been the stars of advertising for decades. And it’s no wonder: animals of this breed have a very expressive appearance. But Cocker Spaniels have many advantages beyond their cute faces. They are loyal, intelligent, energetic dogs that make excellent companions.

Irish Terrier

Weight: 11-13 kg

Height: 45-48 cm

Coat: Hard, straight with soft undercoat

Country: Ireland

Irish Terriers are active, playful, sociable dogs that try to please their owners, although they can sometimes be willful. They are devoted to their family and are always ready to defend their people: for this quality, the rare Irish breed even received the nickname “brave ones”.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever (Toller)

Weight: 17-28 kg

Height: 34-55 cm

Coat: Thick, with dense, water-repellent undercoat

Country: Canada

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are the smallest of the American Kennel Club-recognized retriever breeds. They have a good-natured, playful personality and are considered affectionate family pets. Although they are not yet as well-known as their cousins, the breed is growing in popularity.

Large red dog breeds

Large dogs are usually animals that weigh more than 27 kg. Although much depends on the breed, “giants” are considered smart, calm and loyal pets. Some of them need an experienced owner, others are very active, and some love physical exercise: before getting a pet, study what needs it has.

Golden Retriever

Weight: 25-41 kg

Height: 51-60 cm

Coat: double, thick, moisture-resistant

Country: UK

Golden retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in the world, and for good reason. Sociable, reliable, eager to please, and easy to train, they are especially popular with families with young children. Goldens often retain their cheerful puppy-like personality and signature “smile” into adulthood.

Chow Chow

Weight: 20-32 kg

Height: 46-56 cm

Coat: very thick, can be longhaired or shorthaired

Country: China

Chow Chows are a bright and elegant breed of red dogs that are distinguished by their large size. With their magnificent “mane” and sullen expression, they resemble lions. Chow Chows are usually reserved, intelligent and do not have a great need for sports. They are friendly with their closest relatives and are great for keeping in an apartment.

Pharaoh Hound

Weight: 20-25 kg

Height: 53-63.5 cm

Coat: short, smooth, shiny

Country: Malta

Pharaoh Hounds are graceful, elegant hounds with sleek, shiny coats. But don’t let their model looks fool you: these affectionate, charming dogs are very playful and love to be around their owners at all times. They make wonderful family pets and get along well with children.

German boxer

Weight: 50-60 kg

Height: 28-40 cm

Coat: short, hard, shiny

Country: Germany

Boxers are popular worldwide for their playful, energetic nature and devotion to their owners. They have a great sense of humor and are very affectionate. They are generally good with children and other animals, especially if socialized from an early age.

Collie

Weight: 22-35 kg

Height: 46-60 cm

Coat: thick, long or short

Country: UK

Collies are an elegant breed that were originally bred to herd cattle in Scotland hundreds of years ago. However, their gentle temperament and loyal nature have since made them popular family pets and excellent therapy dogs.

Bloodhound

Weight: 40-54 kg

Height: 58-72 cm

Coat: short, hard

Country: Belgium

Friendly and obedient at home, bloodhounds are known throughout the world for their exceptional sense of smell. A wise look, wrinkles on their faces and long ears give the great bloodhounds the appearance of touching old men and make many generations of dog owners fall in love with them. By the way, the feeling is mutual – bloodhounds have a huge heart.

Boerboel

Weight: 45-70 kg

Height: 55-66 cm

Coat: short, smooth, dense, without undercoat

Country: South Africa

With good training and early socialization, Boerboels can be affectionate and devoted family dogs, while still performing the job they were originally bred to do: watch over those they love. This red, smooth-coated breed’s name translates as “farmer’s dog.”

Cane Corso

Weight: 36-63.5 kg

Height: 60-68 cm

Coat: short, smooth, with little undercoat

Country: Italy

Cane Corso are smart and proud dogs with a sense of self-worth. Their main qualities are activity, vigilance and the ability to protect loved ones. It is very important to properly socialize representatives of this breed from childhood and teach them basic skills so that the dogs learn important behavior patterns for a successful adult life.

Saluki

Weight: 20-30 kg

Height: 56-71 cm

Coat: smooth, silky, without undercoat

Country: Iran

Salukis are ancient and rare red dogs with large ears. Beautiful, independent and loyal animals enjoy running: it is in their nature. The breed is perfect for experienced and active dog owners who spend a lot of time outside the city.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

Weight: 32-36.5 kg

Height: 61-69 cm

Coat: short, stripe on the back grows in the opposite direction

Country: Rhodesia (Zimbabwe)

These dogs are easily recognized by the ridge of hair that runs along the spine in the opposite direction of hair growth. The Ridgeback is an independent, strong, and loyal breed that was bred to protect families and distract lions. Because of their strong character, these dogs are best suited for experienced owners.

Hungarian Vizsla

Weight: 19.8-27 kg

Height: 54-64 cm

Coat: short, dense, hard, without undercoat

Country: Hungary

Vizslas are dogs that need human interaction. Be prepared for your pet to follow you from room to room. These animals love their owners’ attention and touch. Vizslas are energetic and require physical exercise, so they are best suited for experienced dog owners.

Tibetan Mastiff

Weight: 64-78 kg

Height: 61-80 cm

Coat: hard, long, with thick and dense undercoat

Country: Tibet

Adorable Tibetan Mastiff puppies grow into strong and determined animals, similar to lions or bears. These red dogs with long hair are known to have been used for guarding flocks and lands for a long time. Smart and willful mastiffs easily learn new information, but only when they are in the mood for it.

Great Dane

Weight: 60-80 kg

Height: 72-90 cm

Coat: short

Country: Germany

The Great Dane is capable of catching up with a small horse in height, but don’t let that scare you. This gentle giant is a loving and devoted member of any family. It gets along well with children and smaller pets, but with proper supervision: its large size can make the animal not as careful in its movements as you would like.

Malinois (Belgian Shepherd)

Weight: 25-35 kg

Height: 56-66 cm

Coat: Straight, short, with thick undercoat

Country: Belgium

The Malinois is one of four Belgian herding breeds. The dogs will require intensive daily exercise, but do not require special grooming. Although these intelligent animals are more often found in service, they can also become loyal pets for the whole family.

Akita Inu

Weight: 36-50 kg

Height: 64-75 cm

Coat: Hard, straight, with a thick undercoat

Country: Japan

Brave, determined and dignified, Akitas are considered a national treasure of Japan. With proper training, the dogs become loyal family companions: beneath the proud exterior of the animals lies a playful and affectionate nature intended only for their owners.

Greyhound

Weight: 24-35 kg

Height: 68-76 cm

Coat: thick, soft, with little undercoat

Country: UK

Greyhounds are graceful and good-natured pets that are loved for their gentle, calm nature. Despite the title of the fastest dog in the world and their love of running, the animals value a leisurely family life. They are often compared to cats because of their inherent royalty and grace.

Irish Setter

Weight: 14-32 kg

Height: 58-70 cm

Coat: soft, fine, silky

Country: Ireland

Cheerful, intelligent and loyal Irish Setters are deservedly considered excellent family dogs. However, such a pet is unlikely to suit life in a small apartment: Setters need space to move. These dogs will benefit from frequent walks, ball games or even swimming lessons.

Saint Bernard

Weight: 50-91 kg

Height: 65-90 cm

Coat: Long-haired and short-haired, with a thick and dense undercoat

Country: Italy, Switzerland

The friendly, loving and calm nature of the St. Bernard, combined with its gigantic size, allows its owners to feel safe. Alert, affectionate with children, animals of this breed become full-fledged members of the family, willingly participating in everything that happens in the house.

Which dog is right for you?

Ready to choose the right dog breed for you? This is a big decision! Before you begin this process, you need to make sure you are ready for the new responsibility.

Once this stage is completed, there are a few more factors for future owners to consider. Most importantly, examine your current lifestyle and consider what changes you are willing to make for the sake of a dog.

• When choosing, consider the needs of your family, especially if you have children, elderly relatives or other pets. For example, a Norfolk Terrier is unlikely to appreciate the neighborhood of hamsters, while a Golden Retriever will be happy to play with your baby.
• And people who suffer from allergies should pay attention to animal breeds that are considered hypoallergenic: for example, Basenjis or Brussels Griffons.
• What other factors should be taken into account? We share a checklist:
• Size. While some small dogs require more care and attention—they may freeze in cold temperatures, need to go to the bathroom and eat more often—larger animals may need more space and exercise.
• Decide which pet will best suit your lifestyle: perhaps you need a reliable friend for long walks and trips to the countryside, or a cute companion for city apartment life.
• Activity level. Every pet, regardless of breed or size, needs regular exercise. However, a pet’s
• energy level—and therefore the amount and format of exercise—is largely determined by breed. If you feel that you can take 1-2 short walks a day, you may want to choose a less active dog,
• such as a Pekingese or Chow Chow. But if you’re looking for a pet that shares your passion for exercise, consider a more energetic breed, such as a Border Collie or Welsh Springer Spaniel.
• Grooming. Of course, all dogs need basic grooming, but different animals have their own individual characteristics. For example, Pembroke Welsh Corgis and Collies require frequent brushing, and dogs with long, floppy ears are more prone to ear infections. Brachycephalic breeds (English and French Bulldogs, Pekingese, etc.) are at risk for respiratory diseases, and many small dogs require more frequent dental checkups.
• Breed. While all pets are unique, many physiological and psychological aspects are determined by breed. Therefore, it is very important to research all the features of the four-legged one before acquiring one. Determine whether you are ready to accept the potential difficulties associated with the dog’s temperament, care needs, and health. Make sure the breed will suit your family and lifestyle, and then be sure to find a responsible breeder.

Finally, remember that the perfect red pet may not only be found among purebred animals. Mixed breed dogs and shelter animals can also become part of your world and a great addition to your family. By adopting a shelter animal, you will be doing an important act of kindness.