Brindle

Brindle is a coat pattern of dark streaks laid over a lighter base, usually tan, gold or red. The stripes can be fine or bold, and they often look like tiger stripes. It is found in many breeds, including the Boxer, the Greyhound, the Bulldog, the Great Dane, the Whippet and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

The pattern comes from a gene at a specific location that controls where dark pigment is placed. It can be dark enough that the dog looks almost black. A reverse brindle has a dark base with lighter stripes.

Brindle is a colour trait that does not affect temperament. It is distinct from merle, which creates mottled patches, and from sable, where individual hairs are shaded. Breed standards may allow it, require it or forbid it depending on the breed.