The Treeing Tennessee Brindle's development began in the early 1960s with the efforts of Reverend Earl Phillips.

[1] Foundation stock was obtained from various locations in the United States, particularly those between the Ozarks and Appalachian Mountains.

[1] The Treeing Tennessee Brindle's records have been maintained through the American Kennel Club's Foundation Stock Service Program since 1995.

[3][4] Small white markings on the chest and feet are permissible according to the breed standard, as are dewclaws.

[3][4] Additionally, the way it bays during the hunt ("crying" or "giving tongue"[5]) is part of the breed standard: individuals should be "open trailers with change over at tree", and a "coarse chop" is preferred.