10 Dog Breeds in India
India, a country known for its diverse culture, is also home to a wide variety of dog breeds. You’re reading this, which indicates that you’re thinking, “I need a dog.” If you want to adopt one of this kind, of loyal, and friendly animals, learning about some of India’s most popular dog breeds can be quite helpful! From small and apartment-friendly pups to intelligent and non-shedding companions, there’s a breed for every lifestyle. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 dog breeds in India along with additional information on their intelligence, suitability for apartments, shedding tendencies, and affordability.
10 Cheapest Dog Breeds in India with Price
Thus, paying attention to some of the basic details before getting a dog might help you to choose the right breed as per your lifestyle and preferences. One of the most loyal and intelligent animals in the world, dogs are the first choice as pets for humans. These beautiful, agile breeds have a rich history and plenty to offer prospective pooch parents. They love their owners unconditionally. Most of the dogs popular with people in India are imported.
Indian Pariah Dog
Price Range: Free to ₹2,000
The Indian Pariah Dog, also known as the “Desi Dog,” is one of the most affordable dog breeds in India. They are local dogs that are well-adapted to the Indian climate. Indian Pariah dogs are among the best options for pet dogs for Indian households. They are often called indie, desi, or mixed-breed dogs in India. Their easy availability, and free or low-budget availability, make them one of the most sought-after dogs
Pomeranian

Price Range: ₹3,000 to ₹8,000
Pomeranians are small-sized dogs with fluffy coats. They are lively and make great companions. They have what can only be described as a very sassy personality, a cute face that always seems to be smiling, and a magnificent coat. Poms are suitable for apartment living, but they do tend to bark a lot which can create problems for your neighbour. Despite their tiny size, they have big personalities and exude confidence.
Dachshund
Price Range: ₹5,000 to ₹12,000
Dachshunds, known for their unique long bodies and short legs, are playful and curious dogs that come at a reasonable price. They are energetic and love to play, making them wonderful companions for families with children. Dachshund is the perfect addition to any family, regardless of their size. Their heartfelt eyes and complex expressions will make you smile.
Beagle

Price Range: ₹8,000 to ₹16,000
Beagles are friendly and adaptable dogs. They are small to medium-sized and make excellent family pets. Their friendly and gentle nature makes them great with kids and other pets, fostering a harmonious living environment. A beagle is the most suitable dog for apartment life if gets regular exercise and a long walk. Though beagle is still not easily available in India and in some cities, their price is a little higher.
Shih Tzu
Price Range: ₹8,000 to ₹25,000
Shih Tzus are small, affectionate dogs known for their long coats. They are friendly and adapt well to apartment living. They are small and cute-faced dogs, they are quite energetic, fearless, and confident dogs, which were known as a Buddhist monk companion. The Shih Tzu is a small and charming dog breed known for its long, flowing coat and sweet, friendly demeanor. They are intelligent and can learn quickly.
Pug
Price Range: ₹8,000 to ₹30,000
Pugs are charming small dogs with distinctive wrinkled faces. They are affectionate and adapt well to apartment living. Pugs are known as gentle companion dogs and are silent and docile. They are very lively, loyal, and affectionate breeds that are quite intelligent and easy to train. Pugs are not only smart and observant, but they’re also friendly and playful.
Indian Spitz

Price Range: ₹8,000 to ₹20,000
Indian Spitz dogs are medium-sized with a thick double coat. They are known for their alertness and make good watchdogs. Indian Spitz dogs have a friendly and playful personality, which makes them an excellent choice for families with children. They have a friendly and playful personality, which makes them an excellent choice for families with children.
Labrador Retriever
Price Range: ₹10,000 to ₹25,000
Labradors are one of the most popular breeds in India. They are friendly, and intelligent, and make excellent family dogs. Known for their friendly and outgoing nature, Labradors are excellent family dogs. They are highly intelligent, making them easy to train, and their playful demeanor makes them great companions for both kids and adults.
Golden Retriever
Price Range: ₹12,000 to ₹30,000
The Golden Retriever is another favorite among dog enthusiasts in India. They are friendly, intelligent, and have a gentle disposition, making them fantastic family dogs. Their beautiful golden coats do require regular grooming, but their affectionate nature more than makes up for it. The breed-Retriever’s name refers to the breed’s ability to retrieve shot game undamaged because of its soft mouth.
Rottweiler
Price Range: ₹12,000 to ₹25,000
Rottweilers are medium to large-sized dogs known for their loyalty and protective instincts. They are good family dogs with proper training. Intelligent, loyal, and strong are the words used to describe this breed of dog. Rottweilers make good guard dogs. They are mostly used for police and military work. They are also good with other pets, but they may be aggressive towards strange dogs, so it is important to start training them early.
10 Intelligent Dog Breeds in India
The most popular pet for humans is a dog. They are among the most devoted and clever animals in the world. Intelligence can manifest in various ways in dogs, including problem-solving, trainability, and adaptability. It’s important to provide mental stimulation and training to keep intelligent breeds engaged and fulfilled. Here are 10 intelligent dog breeds that can be found in India:
Border Collie
Known for their exceptional intelligence and herding abilities, Border Collies are quick learners and excel in various dog sports.
Poodle
Poodles are highly intelligent and versatile dogs. They come in standard, miniature, and toy sizes, and are known for their trainability.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are renowned for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. They excel in various roles, including police work, search and rescue, and as service dogs.
Labrador Retriever
Labradors are not only friendly and outgoing but also highly intelligent. They are quick learners and often excel in obedience training.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly nature and high intelligence. They are quick to learn and are often used as guide dogs and in search and rescue operations.
Doberman Pinscher
Dobermans are intelligent and highly trainable dogs. They are often used as guard dogs due to their protective instincts and alertness.
Shetland Sheepdog
Shelties are small to medium-sized herding dogs known for their intelligence and agility. They are quick learners and excel in agility and obedience competitions.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers are not only strong and loyal but also intelligent. They are often used as working dogs in roles such as police and search and rescue.
Papillon
Papillons are small toy dogs known for their intelligence and agility. They are quick learners and often excel in dog sports.
Australian Shepherd
Despite their name, Australian Shepherds have roots in the United States. They are highly intelligent herding dogs known for their problem-solving abilities.
10 Dog Breeds in India for Apartment
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t have a furry friend! All these dogs have their own characteristics, and specialties, some of these dogs are more suitable according to the tropical climate. These beautiful, agile breeds have a rich history and plenty to offer prospective pooch parents. Here are 10 dog breeds that are well-suited for apartment living in India:
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are small, low-energy dogs that adapt well to apartment living. They enjoy lounging indoors and don’t require extensive exercise. They need occasional brushing and grooming. As the national symbol of England, the bulldog has been around for a very long time. Frenchies can be stubborn and fiercely protective of their humans, which is important to keep in mind when choosing a dog.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel originates from the United Kingdom. Cavaliers are small, affectionate dogs that get along well with families and other pets. They are well-suited to apartment living due to their adaptable nature. They don’t require much exercise have a calm, patient, affectionate temperament, and are adaptable to every environment.
Pug
Pugs are small dogs with a charming personality. They are known for their adaptability and get along well with both adults and children. These friendly pets typically require a good stroll of approximately 15–20 minutes each day. They are regarded as children’s best friends. They are very lively, loyal, and affectionate breeds that are quite intelligent and easy to train.
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are small, fluffy dogs that thrive in apartment environments. They are social and enjoy spending time with their families. They are a really cute and fluffy dog breed that’s loved by many for their playful, friendly, and affectionate nature. While they can be a great choice for first-time dog owners, it’s important to do your research and make sure you’re ready to meet all their needs.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are small dogs with a sweet and friendly disposition. They are well-suited for apartment living due to their size and adaptable nature. They were probably developed by mixing the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso. They are very gentle and easily make friends. They respond well to consistent and patient training. Shih Tzu’s are very well-suited for apartment living.
Dachshund
Dachshunds are small dogs with a big personality. They adapt well to apartment living with regular exercise and mental stimulation. It is a good idea to occupy them with activities, providing them with a set of toys and taking them on strolls and exercise sessions to divert their minds. They also have a very playful nature which makes them an excellent family dog.
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are medium-sized dogs known for their friendly nature. They can adapt to apartment living with regular exercise and playtime. Cocker Spaniels are medium-sized dogs with black almond-shaped eyes. Cocker Spaniels are very affectionate dogs. It is a sporting dog that likes to chase birds and other small creatures.
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a distinctive breed known for its long ears, droopy eyes, and low-slung body. Basset Hounds are low-energy dogs that are well-suited for apartment living. They enjoy leisurely walks and spending time with their families. They are intelligent but can have a stubborn streak, which may make training a bit challenging. Their short coat is easy to maintain and typically only requires regular brushing and occasional baths.
Beagle
Beagles are friendly and adaptable dogs that can thrive in apartment settings with regular exercise and mental stimulation. Beagles descended from hunting hounds, so exploration and curiosity are in their nature. They are never happier than when they get a chance to explore any interesting scent. Beagles descended from hounds and were used mainly for hunting purposes due to their small size.
Greyhound
Despite their size, Greyhounds are surprisingly well-suited for apartment living. They are calm and don’t require excessive exercise. Apartments with ample garden spaces and walk areas are ideal for these dogs. Socializing and being around people brings out the best in greyhounds. Socializing and being around people brings out the best in greyhounds.
10 Dog Breeds in India Small
These small dog breeds can make wonderful companions in a variety of living situations, including apartments. However, it’s important to remember that individual dogs may have unique needs and temperaments, so it’s always a good idea to spend time with a dog before making a decision. Here are 10 small dog breeds that are popular in India:
Pomeranian
- Size: Small
- Temperament: Lively, Intelligent, Playful
Pomeranians are known for their fluffy coats and lively personalities. They are intelligent and make great companions. Pomeranians have a way of winning hearts with their irresistible charm and bubbly personalities, making them a popular small dog breed in India.
Shih Tzu
- Size: Small
- Temperament: Affectionate, Playful, Alert
Shih Tzus are small dogs with friendly and playful dispositions. They are well-suited for indoor living. They are very social and trusting as well, so they are great for families or for people with friends and frequent guests.
Dachshund
- Size: Small to Medium
- Temperament: Curious, Clever, Energetic
Dachshunds are small dogs with a big personality. They adapt well to apartment living with regular exercise and mental stimulation. They’re loyal and good little watchdogs. They’re great for families living in small spaces.
Pug
- Size: Small
- Temperament: Playful, Charming, Sociable
Pugs are known for their distinctive wrinkled faces and playful nature. They are great companions for families. Pugs are known for their playful, sociable, and affectionate nature towards both humans and other animals, making them a beloved breed.
Beagle
- Size: Small to Medium
- Temperament: Curious, Merry, Friendly
Beagles are friendly and adaptable dogs. They can thrive in various living environments with regular exercise and mental stimulation. Beagles are well-known for their friendly and outgoing personalities and they are often used as therapy dogs because of their gentle and loving nature.
Maltese
- Size: Small
- Temperament: Affectionate, Playful, Alert
Maltese dogs are known for their long, silky coats and sweet personalities. They are well-suited for indoor living. Hairstyles like the standard cut, show cut, bob cut, puppy clip, and teddy bear cut are popular among owners of this tiny breed.
Chihuahua
- Size: Tiny
- Temperament: Alert, Lively, Courageous
Chihuahuas are one of the tiniest dog breeds. They are alert and make excellent companions for individuals or families in smaller spaces. With their playful personalities and affectionate nature, the Chihuahua can be a great family pet.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Size: Small
- Temperament: Friendly, Gentle, Affectionate
Cavaliers are small, affectionate dogs that get along well with families and other pets. They are well-suited to apartment living due to their adaptable nature. They are very well-tempered and are not overreactive; King Charles Spaniels are known for being gentle.
Jack Russell Terrier
- Size: Small to Medium
- Temperament: Energetic, Intelligent, Spirited
Jack Russell Terriers are small but high-energy dogs. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation, but they can adapt to apartment living with the right activities.
Papillon
- Size: Small
- Temperament: Alert, Intelligent, Active
Papillons are small toy dogs known for their intelligence and agility. They are quick learners and often excel in dog sports. With high energy and a friendly character, Papillons gets along well with other pets and strangers.
10 Dog Breeds in India that Don’t Shed
These breeds are often considered more suitable for individuals or families with allergies or those looking for dogs that don’t shed excessively. If you are limited by time, a small breed is something to consider – although like medium and large dog breeds, smaller breeds still need exercise to maintain a healthy life. If you’re in search of a furry friend that’s small but mighty, then you’re in luck. Here are 10 dog breeds that are known for being low-shedding or non-shedding in India:
Poodle
Poodles are known for their hypoallergenic coat that sheds very little. They come in various sizes and are highly intelligent dogs. They are perfect for those who suffer from dog allergies caused by pet dander. They are intelligent dog breeds and are easy to train. They are the perfect water retrievers, and their trainability enables them to complete more challenging tasks.
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises have a curly, non-shedding coat that makes them a good choice for families with allergies. They are smart and enjoy learning tricks. They also like daily exercise and a fair amount of play. The Bichon Frise is a really cute and fluffy dog breed that’s loved by many for its playful, friendly, and affectionate nature.
Maltese
Maltese dogs have a long, silky coat that doesn’t shed much. They are well-suited for families looking for a low-shedding companion. They make for great companion pets and lapdogs and are a popular choice for those looking for a furry friend to keep them company. Their ears are long and floppy, and their tail is plumed and carried over their back.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus has a luxurious coat that sheds minimally. Regular grooming can help maintain their coat’s health and appearance. They are very gentle and easily make friends. They can be trained to be excellent watchdogs due to their cautious nature. They also love attention, which means they’re excellent companions.
Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, often affectionately called the “Yorkie,” is a small dog breed known for its sprightly personality and beautiful silky coat. Yorkies have a fine, silky coat that doesn’t shed much. They are suitable for families with allergies. They are intelligent and quick learners, but they can also be a bit independent.
Havanese
Havanese dogs have a long, silky coat that is considered hypoallergenic. They are known for their friendly nature. They are very agile, and their trainability qualifies them to compete in dog sports such as obedience training and flyball. The Havanese is a bichon-type dog, also referred to as the Havana Silk Dog.
Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a small, affectionate breed known for its fluffy white coat and charming personality. Cotons have a cotton-like coat that is low-shedding. They are known for their sweet and loving temperament. They are intelligent and quick learners, making them highly trainable.
Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a unique and distinctive small breed of dog known for its elegant appearance and loving nature. The Hairless Chinese Crested variety is a hypoallergenic breed. They have minimal to no shedding. They are intelligent and can learn quickly, but they can also be a bit independent.
Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds have short coats that require minimal grooming and shed very little. They can adapt well to apartment living, provided they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. Italian Greyhounds are affectionate, gentle, and sensitive dogs. They are known for their loving nature and often form strong bonds with their owners.
Chihuahua
Chihuahua dog breeds are one of the cutest toy dog breeds in India. They are brilliant and wise dog breeds. They are bold, funny, loving, and loyal little creatures that make fantastic companions to their owners. Chihuahuas love warm weather and hate cold weather.
Top 30 Popular Dog Breeds in India
Dogs have traditionally been regarded as “man’s best friend.” These breeds vary in size, temperament, and exercise needs, so it’s important to consider your lifestyle and preferences when choosing a dog. It’s recommended to adopt from reputable breeders or consider adopting from shelters or rescue organizations. Here are 30 popular dog breeds in India, in no particular order:
- Labrador Retriever
- German Shepherd
- Golden Retriever
- Beagle
- Pug
- Rottweiler
- Dachshund
- Shih Tzu
- Boxer
- Siberian Husky
- English Bulldog
- Great Dane
- Cocker Spaniel
- Saint Bernard
- Doberman Pinscher
- Dalmatian
- Bullmastiff
- Lhasa Apso
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- French Bulldog
- Chow Chow
- Basset Hound
- Pomeranian
- Afghan Hound
- Border Collie
- Australian Shepherd
- Maltese
- Shetland Sheepdog
Conclusion
Choosing the right dog breed for your lifestyle and preferences is crucial for a harmonious and fulfilling pet-owner relationship. Whether you’re looking for a playful family companion, an intelligent working dog, or a low-maintenance apartment pet, there’s a breed for you in India. Take the time to research and meet different breeds to find the perfect furry friend for your home. It is important to note that while these breeds are excellent choices for those looking for a small dog, there are numerous other small dog breeds in India that may also make great pets.