The timeless combination of black and tan is more than just striking—it’s iconic in the canine world. Found across numerous breeds, this color pairing often highlights a dog’s unique features and adds a regal flair to their appearance. While black and tan markings can appear in both small and large dogs, medium-sized breeds strike a perfect balance between versatility and visual appeal, making them ideal companions for many dog lovers.
From agile hunters to steadfast guardians, medium-sized black and tan breeds bring a wide range of personalities and skills to the table. Some sport sleek, short coats, while others flaunt a more rugged or feathery look. Whether they’re bred to hunt, protect, or simply be loyal family pets, these dogs often turn heads with their bold coloring and confident presence.
In this article, we’ll explore a variety of medium-sized black and tan dogs, diving into what makes each one special. Whether you’re a first-time pet owner or an experienced dog enthusiast, these beautiful canines are sure to captivate your attention.
Black And Tan Medium Dog Breeds
1. Black and Tan Coonhound

The Black and Tan Coonhound, a descendant of the English Foxhound and Bloodhound, originated in the southern United States during the 1700s. The AKC describes Black and Tan Coonhounds as friendly, easygoing, and enjoying companionship.
Bred primarily for tracking and treeing raccoons, this breed is now also cherished as a loyal and affectionate dog. Belonging to the Hound group, this American original typically stands 23 to 27 inches tall and weighs between 65 to 110 pounds.
Known for their incredible scenting ability and melodious voice, Black and Tans thrive in both work and play. With an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, they make reliable, spirited companions for active households.

Appearance
This breed is easily recognized by its sleek black coat adorned with rich tan markings, especially the unique “pumpkin seeds” above its eyes. It features a long, broad muzzle, pendulous velvety ears, and a deep chest.
The short, glossy coat is weather-resistant and moderately sheds, requiring occasional brushing. Muscular and alert, the Black and Tan Coonhound is built for endurance and challenging terrains.
Fact: The Black and Tan Coonhound’s sweet disposition and tenacity in tracking have made it a beloved yet underrated American hunting and family dog.
2. Airedale Terrier

Known as the “King of Terriers,” the Airedale Terrier combines intelligence, strength, and a bold, yet friendly nature. According to Britannica, the Airedale Terrier is the largest of the terrier breeds. Originating from the Aire Valley in Yorkshire, England, this breed was developed by crossing the Old English Terrier with the Otterhound and other terriers.
Historically, a versatile working dog, the Airedale has served in war zones, worked as a police and guard dog, and remains a devoted family companion. They typically stand between 21 and 23 inches tall and weigh 40 to 65 pounds. Their lifespan averages 10 to 13 years, and they belong to the terrier group, prized for their energy, alertness, and loyalty.

Appearance
Airedales possess a distinct black and tan double coat that is dense, wiry, and low-to-moderate in shedding. Their long, athletic legs give them an elegant gait, while their long, flat heads feature expressive dark eyes and V-shaped ears that fold forward. The trademark beard and mustache complete their dignified appearance.
Did you know? Airedale Terriers served in both World Wars, carrying messages and aiding in the rescue of wounded soldiers on the battlefield.
3. Australian Kelpie

Originally developed in Australia in the late 19th century, the Australian Kelpie is also commonly referred to simply as “Kelpie”. PetMD states that the Australian Kelpie is a smart and energetic dog breed.
With ancestral roots tracing back to smooth Collies from Scotland, this breed was specifically bred to work tirelessly under the extreme heat and rugged conditions of the Australian outback, helping drive sheep, cattle, and even poultry across vast terrains.
Kelpies are medium-sized dogs, standing about 17 to 20 inches tall and weighing between 25 to 45 pounds. Known for their keen alertness and boundless energy, these dogs thrive in active environments where they can stay both mentally and physically engaged. They typically live between 10 and 14 years.

Appearance
Kelpies are lean and agile with a refined, chiseled head and upright, pointed ears that project alertness. Their short, rain-resistant, dense coat comes in several colors, including the iconic black and tan. They have a thick undercoat, a tail that curves like a saber, and eye colors that range from gold to deep brown.
Fun Fact: The breed was named after “Kings Kelpie,” a champion herding dog that won the Forbes Sheepdog Trial in the 1870s.
4. Appenzeller Sennenhund

The Appenzeller Sennenhund, also known as the Appenzeller Mountain Dog or Appenzell Cattle Dog, hails from the Swiss Alps and is one of four regional Swiss Sennenhund breeds. Bred for herding and guarding livestock, this medium-sized working dog is known for its intelligence, agility, and unmatched devotion to its family.
Typically standing between 19 to 22 inches tall and weighing 50 to 70 pounds, this energetic breed thrives in active homes where it can fulfill its instinctive need to work and engage in outdoor activities. Naturally fearless and confident, Appenzellers are alert watchdogs that remain calm and dependable in diverse settings.

Appearance
With a compact, almost square frame and strong musculature, this active dog is built for endurance and power. Its glossy double coat features a signature tri-color pattern—jet black or brown as the base, accented by symmetrical white and rust markings.
The outer coat is dense and tight, while the undercoat varies in color from black and brown to gray. Upright ears, expressive eyes, and an ever-ready posture give this breed a keen and lively look.
Did you know? This breed excels not only in herding but also in search and rescue, obedience, and agility sports.
5. Jagdterrier

Originating from Germany, the Jagdterrier—also known as the German Hunt Terrier—is a tenacious and spirited breed developed in the early 20th century for hunting efficiency. Bred to track and flush out game from dens, this medium-sized terrier is revered for its strong prey drive, intelligence, and adaptability.
Despite their working roots, Jagdterriers can become loyal companions with the right socialization and mental stimulation. They typically stand 13–16 inches tall and weigh between 17 and 22 pounds. This compact, muscular frame makes them agile and fast, ideal dogs for fieldwork or active homes. They belong to the Terrier group and have an average life span of 10–12 years.
Appearance
Jagdterriers boast a rugged, sturdy build covered in a dense, harsh coat that protects them in rough terrain. Their most iconic coloration is black with rust-colored markings on the muzzle, chest, and legs, though dark brown and black with gray patterns are also seen.
These tan accents add a bold contrast, reinforcing their classic black-and-tan appeal. They have a strong jaw, pointed ears, and an expressive, alert gaze.
Fun Fact: While intelligent and trainable, Jagdterriers retain a fierce hunting instinct—best suited for owners who can match their drive and energy.
6. Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman Pinscher, also affectionately known as the Dobie, is a powerful and intelligent breed that originated in Apolda, Germany, in the late 1800s. Developed by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, this medium-to-large working dog was bred to be a protector and has since earned global admiration for its loyalty, alertness, and trainability.
A well-conditioned Doberman stands between 24 and 28 inches tall and weighs between 60 to 100 pounds. With a lifespan of around 10 to 13 years, they make loyal companions and effective guardians. Dobermans are often praised for their versatility, excelling as family pets, service dogs, and police or military working dogs.

Appearance
Dobermans have a sleek, athletic frame with a deep chest, long neck, and muscular build. Their short, smooth coat comes in shades like black, blue, red, or fawn, each featuring distinctive rust-colored markings on the head, chest, legs, and tail base. Their elegant silhouette is completed by a narrow muzzle and often-cropped ears that stand alert.

Fun Fact: A Doberman named Kurt was the first canine casualty during the 1944 Battle of Guam and is memorialized at the National War Dog Cemetery.
7. Beagle

Known for their cheerful disposition and exceptional scent-tracking ability, Beagles are medium-sized hounds with a long-standing reputation as both hunting partners and loyal companions.
Originating from Great Britain, this breed is part of the Hound group and typically stands between 13 to 15 inches tall, weighing around 20 to 30 pounds. Beagles were originally bred for hunting rabbits and hares, and their friendly, alert nature has made them one of the most beloved family pets.
Their sense of smell is so refined that the U.S. Customs and Border Protection employs a special “Beagle Brigade” to detect prohibited agricultural items.

Appearance
These tan dog breeds are compactly built with a slightly domed skull, square muzzle, and broad black nose. Their most recognizable features include long, floppy ears and expressive brown eyes.
They carry their tails high and have a straight back with a deep chest. While most Beagles display a tricolor coat of black, tan, and white, black and tan Beagles—with no white—offer a striking and rarer variation. Their coat is short, smooth, and dense, requiring minimal grooming.
Fun Fact: The world-famous cartoon character Snoopy was based on a Beagle that belonged to Charles Schulz during his childhood.
Conclusion
Choosing a black and tan medium dog breed means embracing both beauty and versatility. These dogs stand out with their stunning black and tan markings, often highlighted by a sleek coat color that turns heads on every walk. From breeds that are typically black with rich tan accents to those with striking features like red stockings on their legs, each has its own charm. Whether you’re drawn to their loyal nature, striking appearance, or practical qualities, these dogs deliver in every way, especially for families or individuals looking for alert, affectionate companions.
Breeds like the Miniature Pinscher, English Toy Terrier, and German Shepherd bring a blend of energy and elegance. These athletic hunters were often bred to hunt rats or guard property, making them protective and agile. Others, like the brown dog types with black-tan coats, are known for bonding well with families and coexisting peacefully with small animals. Whatever your choice, ensure their coats are brushed regularly to maintain their glossy look and keep them comfortable year-round.