6 Orange Dog Breeds and Orange Dog Names

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• Find a wide variety of pets with this unique coloring across breeds.
• Highly intelligent and slightly bossy breeds include the Shiba and Corgi.
• Sporting breeds include Goldador and Brittany.

One of the great things about dogs is the variety. Whether you're looking for a big or small dog, cheerful or serious, fluffy or short-haired, there's something for you. The same goes for coloring. Orange dog breeds aren't necessarily as common as other colors or patterns, but they represent a wide variety of pups from around the world. Here are six orange dog breeds for you to check out when looking for your next pet, as well as some orange dog names for inspiration.

#6: Goldador – two flavors taste great together

What happens when you put two of the most popular hunting dogs in the world together? You get a dog with some of the best traits of both. In terms of the Goldador's heritage — a Labrador-Golden Retriever mix — that means combining the gentle demeanor of a Golden Retriever with the more curious athleticism of a Labrador. This also means that they have inherited the loving nature, willingness to please and excess enthusiasm from both breeds. Goldadors are not recognized by the AKC and are one of the youngest breeds around, which means there is a lot of variation in fur type, body size, and orange hue that Goldadors can express through their coats.

Suggested Orange Dog Name: Rusty

Rusty can reference the rusty coat of a goldador or a golden retriever, but it's also a classic dog name that evokes the steadfast and loyal traits of dogs bred for the hunt. It might not be the most original orange dog name, but it's remained a classic for a reason.

#5: Golden Retriever – Retriever turned family dog

The "golden" in Golden Retriever refers to the color of this popular family dog's coat, but gold can cover a variety of colors, including various shades of orange. These large dogs are known for their handsome features and uniquely beautiful coats, but that's not the only reason why they consistently top lists of the most popular dog breeds. These dogs play around strangers, but form especially warm and loving bonds with human families. Loving but not demanding, playful but not demanding constant attention, these dogs are affable giants. Many of these strong character traits are the result of trying to breed a retriever that is more effective at retrieving – many of which can translate to the type of game or training your Golden Retriever has.

Suggested orange dog name: Apollo

The Golden Retriever's lion-like features and brilliant golden-orange coat lend a sense of majesty. Why not name them after the exalted Greek god of the sun and light.

#4: Cocker Spaniel – a life-like plush toy

The Cocker Spaniel is another breed of hunting dog. While golden retrievers memorize the location of downed birds and go on command to retrieve them, these spaniels use their athletic build and small size to chase small prey through burrows and into bushes. The result is a spirited and affectionate dog with a keen sense of wit that sometimes translates into mischief. Still, these dogs tend to be easy to train and capable of learning complex tricks if their notoriously short attention spans are sustained on the task. They're also one of the most unique breeds around, thanks to their lush and curly fur that makes them look like stuffed animals. Fortunately, most members of the breed will respond well if you decide to cuddle them.

Suggested Orange Dog Name: Ginger

The lively and outgoing movie star from Gilligan's Island is a great inspiration for a dog with the photogenic appeal of the Cocker Spaniel. Or, you can turn to famous dancer Ginger Rogers for a nod to the breed's lilting nature.

#3: Welsh Corgi – Little Boss of the Ranch

Two species of Welsh Corgi exist – the Pembroke Corgi and the Cardigan – but orange and red are the most common colors of the two. Their small, stocky bodies combined with fox-like features make these stubby dogs one of the most unique and lovable canids on the planet, but they were bred to herd sheep and cattle several times their size. Therefore, the Corgi is agile and very intelligent. But they also tend to be bossy and loud. For most Corgi owners, these traits are just another expression of their cheerful and lively personality. While they tend to get along with other house pets, they have been known to sometimes bite on the heels of other dogs and cats to guide them where the corgi thinks they should be.

Suggested Orange Dog Name: Garfield

Pop culture's favorite lasagna-eating cat is as fluffy and round as the average corgi. But it's a perfect name for any orange breed with a little extra junk in the trunk.

#2: Brittany – All-Star Athlete

Orange isn't just a color choice for Brittany. It's an expectation that all members of the breed have a combination of white or off-white bases and markings that can extend from bright orange to deep reddish-orange livers. As all-purpose retrievers, they have the focus and energy very similar to the Cocker Spaniel. They also share the Cocker Spaniel's hyperactive personality. This is a dog best suited to active families, but they shine when they have a job to keep their minds sharp and give them a sense of purpose. Fortunately, their adaptability means they can excel in everything from agility training to obedience. They also stand out in environments with children, as they are naturally playful dogs that are not overly sensitive to rough play.

Suggested Orange Dog Name: Sunshine

Some dog names are as common as they are just common sense, and few names are as appropriate for the active and energetic Brittany Spaniel as Sunshine. It's an ideal name for any dog that lights up a room as soon as it walks in.

#1: Shiba Inu – Japan’s orange agile hunter

Japan's most famous hunting dog, the Shiba Inu, comes in four different colors, but is best known for its red or orange coat. They have similar markings and shaggy tails to corgis, but their bodies are noticeably stronger, fitting the physiology of a more traditional working dog. They're also tenacious and stubborn like corgis, and aren't always inclined to do exactly what they're told. But those willing to overcome the occasional setback will find an active and curious dog who can entertain and adapt to life in even a modest-sized apartment. Once properly integrated, these dogs are extremely loyal to their human companions.

Suggested Orange Dog Name: Aki

Aki means autumn in Japanese, a fitting choice considering how the bright orange color of the Shiba's fur reflects the beautiful hues of fallen leaves. But to add a double meaning to the name, Aki can also represent light and hope.

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Keep reading these posts for more incredible facts about key animals.

• 10 Brown Dog Breeds and Names: It's a common color, but equally beloved by dog lovers around the world. Find out which breeds may have them and what names you can give them.

• 11 White Dog Breeds and White Dog Names: Whether it's a feisty Chihuahua or an imposing Swiss Shepherd, you'll be dazzled when it comes to choosing a pet with a cream, ivory or snow-white coat. Not only have we showcased popular choices here, but we've also given them the perfect names.
• 8 Orange Cat Breeds & Names: Do you want to bring your very own Garfield back to life? Learn the secrets behind this beautiful color, the breeds that bear it, and the clever names for these adorable felines.

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