Embarking on the journey of pet parenthood is a joyous decision, and for many in India, a dog is more than just a pet – it’s a cherished family member. With a rich tapestry of cultures and climates, India is home to an incredible array of dog breeds, each with its unique charm and needs. Whether you’re looking for a loyal companion, a protective guardian, or a playful family member, understanding the diverse dog breed names and prices in India can help you make an informed choice tailored to your lifestyle and the Indian environment. This guide explores some of the most popular and well-suited dog breeds found across India, detailing their characteristics, history, and care requirements.
German Shepherd
Renowned for their intelligence and loyalty, German Shepherds stand out as one of India’s most unique and sought-after dog breeds. Their self-assured and courageous temperament makes them excellent companions and protectors.
A Brief History: Originating in Germany, German Shepherds, also known as Alsatians, were initially bred to assist shepherds in herding and protecting sheep. Their role evolved from working dogs to popular pets, gaining widespread recognition during the First World War.
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | Large |
| Height | 21 to 25 inches |
| Weight | 35 to 45 kilograms |
| Characteristics | Agile and strong, with square heads, erect ears, and long, bushy tails. Their medium-length double coat can range from tan with a black saddle to solid black or white, and is prone to excessive shedding. |
| Group | Herding Group |
| Temperament | Intelligent, self-assured, obedient, protective, alert, and active |
| Exercise | Being active and athletic, German Shepherds require significant daily exercise for both mental and physical well-being. |
| Grooming | Daily brushing is essential due to their shedding, especially twice a day during shedding season. They also need baths every 10 to 15 days, and regular nail trimming is crucial to prevent pain and issues. |
| Health | Prone to conditions like degenerative myelopathy, elbow and hip dysplasia, and potentially life-threatening bloating (gastric dilatation-volvulus). Regular screening is recommended. |
Great Dane
For those captivated by large, majestic dogs, the Great Dane is an ideal choice. These gentle giants are not only affectionate companions but also vigilant guardians of the home, standing among the tallest dog breeds globally. A famous Great Dane named Zeus even held the record for the tallest dog ever.
A Brief History: With German origins dating back over 400 years, Great Danes descended from mastiff-like dogs and were historically employed by nobility for hunting wild boars and protecting estates and carriages. Today, they are admired for their imposing presence and gentle nature. For someone who is into large dogs, the Great Dane breed is a perfect choice. Not only are they affectionate companions, but they are also fierce and alert home guardians. Dogs of this breed are among the tallest in the world, making them a magnificent example of large breed dogs that don’t shed much.
A majestic Great Dane standing calmly, showcasing its large stature and sleek coat
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | Large |
| Height | 29 to 33 inches |
| Weight | 60 to 90 kilograms |
| Characteristics | Long, muscular bodies with strong necks and medium-length tails. They have a smooth coat and are light to medium shedders. |
| Group | Working Group |
| Temperament | Friendly, reserved, confident, docile, gentle, and devoted |
| Exercise | Daily exercise is required, with intensity adjusted for age. Rigorous exercise for puppies should be avoided to protect growing joints. Outdoor exercise on proper ground is recommended over slippery indoor surfaces. |
| Grooming | Weekly brushing helps manage their light shedding. Occasional baths are sufficient, and nails must be kept short to prevent discomfort and mobility issues. |
| Health | Highly susceptible to life-threatening gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) or bloating. Prophylactic gastropexy surgery is often considered. Also screened for hypothyroidism, cardiac diseases, and hip dysplasia. |
Beagles
Derived from the French word ‘Beguele’, Beagles are globally cherished for their adorable appearance and gentle nature, making them highly popular family dogs in India. These small, compact canines are perfect companions, ranking high among the cutest dog breeds in the country. Their manageable size and friendly demeanor make them suitable for various living situations, provided their exercise needs are met.
A Brief History: Beagles descended from hounds and were primarily used for hunting small game like rabbits, jackals, and pigs due to their keen sense of smell and compact size. Historically, a variety known as ‘pocket beagles’ were even carried in hunters’ coat pockets, highlighting their utility and small stature.
A playful Beagle puppy with its characteristic tri-color coat and floppy ears
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium |
| Height | 19 to 22 inches |
| Weight | 10 to 15 kilograms |
| Characteristics | Muscular dogs with slightly domed skulls, long tails, and squarish muzzles. They possess a smooth double coat. |
| Group | Hound Group |
| Temperament | Friendly, reserved, confident, docile, gentle, and devoted |
| Exercise | Require significant daily exercise, at least one hour, ideally with canine or human companionship for mental and emotional health. Mental stimulation through sniffing games and new toys is also vital. |
| Grooming | Moderate year-round shedding. Weekly brushing helps remove loose hair and promotes healthy growth. Baths are not frequently needed, and regular nail trimming prevents pain and discomfort. |
| Health | Susceptible to hip dysplasia, epilepsy, luxating patella, and hypothyroidism. Weekly ear cleaning is necessary to prevent infections, and regular teeth brushing is also recommended. |
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are consistently ranked among the most popular dog breeds in India, cherished for their kind temperament and striking appearance. Once favored by Indian royalty, these dogs are now invaluable to dog fanciers and are considered one of the best family dog breeds in the country. Their adaptable nature and intelligence make them wonderful companions for various households.
A Brief History: Primarily bred in Scotland as bird-dogs for hunting waterfowl, Golden Retrievers were developed by crossing spaniels, setters, Newfoundlands, and possibly bloodhounds. This selective breeding resulted in a strong, water-loving swimmer capable of tracking wounded prey and crippled birds.
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium to Large |
| Height | 21 to 22 inches |
| Weight | 25 to 29 kilograms |
| Characteristics | Distinctive water-repellent coats in golden, light-golden, or cream shades, which can be wavy or flat. They feature feathering on the neck, legs, and thighs, with a broad, robust head. |
| Group | Sporting Group |
| Temperament | Intelligent, kind, trustworthy, confident, friendly, and reliable |
| Exercise | Require ample exercise. Activities like hunting trips, long runs, and bike rides can easily meet their needs. |
| Grooming | Shed moderately and continuously. Daily brushing (twice during shedding season) removes dead hair. Frequent baths help loosen dead hairs and keep them clean. Nails should be kept short for comfort. |
| Health | Should be screened for elbow and hip dysplasia, retinal atrophy, and heart diseases like subvalvular aortic stenosis. Ears and teeth require regular checks for signs of infection. |
Pug
Named after the Latin word meaning ‘clenched fist’, Pugs are charming ‘big dogs in little bodies’ whose popularity in India has soared. Their distinctive appearance and playful disposition have cemented their status as beloved companions across the country.
A Brief History: Pugs have an ancient lineage, existing since 400 B.C. and originating from China, where they were bred as companions for royalty and even Tibetan Buddhist monks. Chinese emperors valued them so highly that they employed guards for their protection. In India, their demand dramatically increased following an advertisement campaign featuring a pug named Cheeka for Hutchinson Essar (a cellular network), a trend that has sustained ever since.
A cute fawn Pug with its characteristic wrinkled face and curled tail looking directly at the camera
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | Small |
| Height | 10 to 12 inches |
| Weight | 6 to 10 kilograms |
| Characteristics | Most notable for their small, wrinkly faces and curled tails. They have a fine, glossy coat, typically light brown or black, and a compact, square body with well-developed muscles. |
| Group | Toy Dog |
| Temperament | Charming, playful, docile, clever, friendly, and loving |
| Exercise | Require moderate exercise, including play sessions and walks in a park. Due to their intolerance for hot weather, strenuous activity should be avoided during high temperatures. |
| Grooming | Smooth, glossy coat that does not shed too much; weekly brushing is sufficient. Baths are not needed frequently, and nails must be trimmed. Special attention is required for their skin folds, which must be kept clean and dry after baths to prevent infections. |
| Health | Susceptible to hip dysplasia, stenotic nares, corneal ulcers, and dry eyes. Their flat faces make them prone to breathing issues like reverse sneezing, especially in hot and humid conditions. |
Pomeranian
This vibrant and fluffy breed is truly one of India’s most unique dog breeds. Once a favorite of Germany’s Queen Victoria, Pomeranians are a popular choice for families in India seeking a loyal and lively addition to their homes. Their small size and spirited personality make them endearing companions.
A Brief History: Pomeranians are descendants of Arctic dogs, historically much larger and capable of working in harsh, cold environments as sledge, load-carrying, and sheep-herding dogs. They were named after the Pomerania region, where they were selectively bred down to the smaller size we recognize today, becoming popular lap dogs.
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | Small |
| Height | 10 to 11 inches |
| Weight | 2 to 5 kilograms |
| Characteristics | Possess fluffy double coats and foxy faces with alert, prick ears. They have a squarish body shape, a tail that curls up over the back, and a thick mane around the neck. |
| Group | Toy Dog |
| Temperament | Intelligent, playful, sociable, docile, alert, and charming |
| Exercise | Require a moderate level of activity, enjoying running, playing, and walks. It’s crucial to supervise them outdoors due to their small size, as they can easily be mistaken for small prey by larger animals. |
| Grooming | Highly susceptible to shedding, requiring frequent brushing to maintain their beautiful coat. Professional grooming for baths, nail trimming, teeth brushing, and ear care is highly recommended. |
| Health | Generally healthy but should be screened for luxating patellas, collapsing tracheas, seizures, and alopecia. |
Shih Tzu
Known as the Chrysanthemum Dog or Chinese Lion Dog, the Shih Tzu’s demand and availability in India have steadily risen over the years, largely due to their exceptional companionship qualities. These charming dogs make wonderful pets for families and individuals alike.
A Brief History: Originating in Tibet, Shih Tzus were revered symbols of royalty and were exchanged as gifts among Chinese and Tibetan royal families. Their name, ‘Little Lion’ in Mandarin, alludes to the God of learning, who traveled with a miniature lion dog that could transform into a large lion, highlighting their esteemed status and unique folklore.
A Shih Tzu with its characteristic long, flowing hair and topknot
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | Small |
| Height | 9 to 10.5 inches |
| Weight | 4 to 7.5 kilograms |
| Characteristics | Dense, long coats with a heavy volume of hair on their heads. They come in solid colors like brown or white and have a muscular build with a deep, broad chest. Often considered hypoallergenic due to their hair-like coat. |
| Group | Toy Dog |
| Temperament | Affectionate, independent, playful, sociable, loyal, and alert |
| Exercise | Require minimal exercise, typically short daily walks and indoor playtime suffice. |
| Grooming | Daily brushing is essential due to their long coats. Baths every 10-15 days keep them clean. Head hair must be trimmed or tied into a topknot to protect the eyes. Regular ear cleaning and nail trimming are also necessary, often requiring professional grooming. |
| Health | Prone to hip dysplasia, cataracts, retinal atrophy, and corneal dryness; screening for these conditions is advised. |
Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is a truly unique dog breed in India, known for its striking blue eyes and wolf-like appearance. Its popularity has surged in recent years, captivating dog enthusiasts. These classic Northern dogs possess a natural “winter wear” coat, making them ideal for colder climates.
A Brief History: Bred in Siberia, the Husky was primarily developed as a companion, guard, and sledge dog. Their enduring popularity significantly grew when they were instrumental in transporting antitoxins to Nome, Alaska, during the diphtheria epidemic, showcasing their incredible endurance and loyalty.
A majestic Siberian Husky with striking blue eyes and a thick double coat
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium-Large |
| Height | 19 to 23 inches |
| Weight | 20 to 35 kilograms |
| Characteristics | Thick manes with a medium-length double coat that can withstand extremely low temperatures. Colors range from black to pure white, sometimes red and white. They have erect ears, straight necks, and a level topline. |
| Group | Working Group |
| Temperament | Intelligent, friendly, gentle, alert, independent, and sometimes stubborn |
| Exercise | As working dogs, Huskies have high exercise requirements. Regular physical and mental activity is vital for their health, making them well-suited for active owners. |
| Grooming | Double-coated and prone to excessive shedding, especially during seasonal “blowing” of their coat, requiring daily brushing and a de-shedding tool. They are clean animals and do not require frequent baths. Nails must be kept short. |
| Health | Generally healthy but can be susceptible to juvenile cataracts and hip dysplasia. |
Dachshund
This distinctive sausage-shaped dog is an undeniable head-turner! The Dachshund’s lively and playful character, combined with its short coat and small size, makes it a low-maintenance and apartment-friendly companion, especially appealing to city dwellers.
A Brief History: The name “Dachshund” literally means ‘badger dog,’ reflecting their original purpose: hunting badgers. They were historically categorized into two sizes: standard Dachshunds for hunting wild boars and badgers, and miniature Dachshunds primarily for hunting hares and foxes, showcasing their versatility and tenacious spirit in the field. Dachshunds are lively and playful, and surprisingly, these charming dogs don’t shed excessively.
A long-bodied Dachshund with short legs and floppy ears, looking inquisitive
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium-Small |
| Height | 5 to 9 inches |
| Weight | 3 to 12 kilograms |
| Characteristics | Very long bodies with short legs, broad foreheads, long pointed noses, floppy ears, curved tails, and deep chests. |
| Group | Hound Group |
| Temperament | Playful, friendly, lively, alert, independent, stubborn, and clever |
| Exercise | Despite their size, Dachshunds require regular exercise to maintain fitness and develop strong back muscles. Owners should prevent them from running up/down stairs or jumping on/off furniture to avoid back injuries. |
| Grooming | Do not shed excessively. Smooth-coat Dachshunds require less frequent brushing than long-haired varieties. Nails must be kept short to prevent discomfort. |
| Health | Prone to intervertebral disc disease (slipped disc) due to their long backs. Ample exercise and weight management are crucial. Also susceptible to ear infections if not properly maintained. |
Indies (Indian Pariah Dogs)
Indies, also known as Pariah dogs, are native to the Indian subcontinent and represent a naturally evolved breed. Commonly found across India, they are often utilized as guard or police dogs and are increasingly popular choices for adoption within the country due to their adaptability and resilience.
A Brief History: Found throughout South Asia, the exact origin of this breed is unknown, but archaeological evidence suggests their presence for over 12,000 years. Historically, they served as hunting companions for various tribes and are depicted in Indian art, culture, and folklore through sculptures, paintings, and stories, highlighting their deep historical roots. Dogs of this breed shed very little and need minimal grooming attention, making them a low-maintenance option for many families.
An alert Indie dog with erect ears and a short double coat, typical of Indian street dogs
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium |
| Height | 20 to 25 inches |
| Weight | 12 to 20 kilograms |
| Characteristics | Square or rectangular build, short double coat with a soft undercoat and thick overcoat, erect ears, and a curled tail. Common colors include light and dark browns, white, black, and reddish-brown. |
| Temperament | Friendly, protective, playful, loving, territorial, and intelligent |
| Exercise | Require regular exercise for physical and mental well-being, including walks, runs, and even swims. Inadequate activity can lead to destructive behavior. Mental stimulation through sniffing games is also beneficial. |
| Grooming | Shed very little and require minimal grooming. They have no strong body odors, and occasional baths are sufficient. Well-suited for tropical temperatures but may struggle in extreme heat or cold. Nails must be trimmed. |
| Health | One of the healthiest breeds, with very few genetic disorders. Conditions like hip dysplasia are rare. |
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Breeds in India
Choosing the right dog involves considering many factors, from diet to climate suitability. Here are some common questions answered for prospective dog owners in India:
Which dog food is famous in India?
Boiled chicken and rice, and milk with roti, are traditional popular choices for dog food in India. For those who prefer alternatives to home-cooked diets, kibble is a common option. However, it’s important to note that feeding a dog primarily rice and chicken long-term might not meet all their nutritional needs, as dogs require a diet high in protein for optimal health.
Which dog breed is better for a family in India?
For dog lovers and prospective puppy adopters in India, popular family-friendly breeds include Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Pugs, and Pariah dogs. It is generally advised to avoid Siberian Huskies in most parts of India, as their thick coats are designed for cold weather, and the tropical climate can be detrimental to their health.
Which is the best suited small breed dog in India?
If you’re seeking a small, easy-to-care-for, and apartment-friendly dog in India, excellent choices include Shih Tzus, Indian Spitzs, Pugs, Dachshunds, and Yorkshire Terriers. These breeds adapt well to smaller living spaces, provided their exercise and mental stimulation needs are met.
Which is the longest-living dog breed suitable for India’s climatic conditions?
Indian Pariah dogs (or street dogs), Beagles, Golden Retrievers, and Chihuahuas are among the longest-living dog breeds known for their compatibility with India’s tropical climate. Their natural hardiness and adaptability contribute to their longevity in these environments.
Which is the best dog breed for a pet in metro cities in India?
Metropolitan cities often feature small apartments without lawns or gardens. In such settings, Pugs, Dachshunds, Beagles, Retrievers, and even Poodles are considered good choices for dog lovers. However, these breeds require significant exercise, so they should only be kept in apartments if they can be taken outdoors daily for at least two hours of exercise and mental stimulation.
Which dog breed is suitable for North Indian Climate?
For the cooler, more diverse climate of Northern India, Bhakarwal dogs, Rampur Greyhounds, and Bully dogs are among the most popular and suitable types of dogs, traditionally bred to thrive in these specific environmental conditions.
Which dog breed is best for apartments in India?
For apartment living in India, the best dog breeds for families include Pugs, Dachshunds, Beagles, Retrievers, Poodles, Indian Spitzs, and even Pariah dogs. While adaptable to smaller spaces, it’s crucial that these breeds receive daily outdoor exercise and mental stimulation for at least two hours to ensure their overall well-being.
Finding the right dog breed in India means considering your living situation, local climate, and ability to meet a dog’s specific needs. By understanding the characteristics of these popular breeds, you can make an informed decision and welcome a loving companion into your home.
