India's Top 15 Most Loved Dog Breeds in 2025!

Are you looking to welcome a furry friend into your life? India is home to a variety of dog breeds, each bringing joy, companionship, and their unique personalities to light up homes across the country.

Whether you’re looking for an affectionate family pet or an energetic playmate, there’s a breed out there that’s just right for you. 

The Indian pet market is booming. From harnesses to dresses, food, toys, mats, beddings – even full-fledged homes! – dog parents now have unlimited choices. In fact, In 2024, India touched an estimated 36.85 million people with dogs as pets, according to Statista.  

There is no better time to join in the fun and gain a best friend. But, which one? At Happy Pet, we’ve had so many conversations with loving pet parents. Understanding their need, activity levels, financial considerations, time constraints, and space limits has given us a very good idea about what kind of dogs make life beautiful for most pet parents in India. Keeping all of those considerations in mind, we’re excited to bring you a list of the Top 15 Most Popular Dog Breeds in India.

Let’s dive in, in no particular order!

1. Shih Tzu

At the start of the list is the cutest lion dog! The Shih Tzu is a tiny dog with a personality the size of Mount Everest! These affectionate lap dogs are known for their gorgeous soft coats and friendly nature. They are perfect apartment-sized dogs and thrive on love and attention. Beware! They are known to be devoted to their humans. While they are cute and small, Shih Tzus need to be socialized from an early age or they won’t take too kindly to meeting new dogs or people. 

Common Issues: Prone to eye infections, breathing problems, and skin issues. 

Easy Solution: Regular vet check-ups and proper grooming.

2. French Bulldog

I recently adopted a French Bulldog, and it probably was one of the best decisions of my life till date! Frenchies are small, extremely playful, and full of character and expressions. They are very loving and they have different barks for different situations! This is another breed that is perfect for Indian apartments and weather. They love cuddling and minimal exercise is perfect for them. 

Common Issues: Heat sensitivity and respiratory issues, are both common with dog breeds with flat faces.  

Easy Solution: Keep them cool, and hydrated and avoid excessive exercise.

3. Dachshund

Dachshunds, called sausage dogs or wieners, are a classic case of small dogs with big dog personalities. Their playful and curious nature keeps their owners entertained. Extremely courageous and loyal, Dachshunds have a surprisingly loud bark. While they are a very loving breed, early socialisation is mandatory or they turn into guard dogs more than the cuddlebugs they are known to be. Most wieners have high energy levels and need a decent amount of exercise and mental stimulation. Beware! Dachshunds can be extremely smart and stubborn. Staying a couple of steps ahead of them is a full-time job!  

Common Issue: Prone to back problems. 

Easy Solution: Avoid excessive jumping and provide supportive bedding.

4. Pug

Another in the list of short-snouted dogs is the cute Vodafone dog, also known as the Pug! Their adorable wrinkled faces and playful nature make them a favorite among dog lovers. Pugs are very affectionate and love people. This breed wins the crown for the best dog for all members of the family.  

Common Issue: Breathing difficulties due to their flat faces. 

Easy Solution: Ensure they stay at a healthy weight and avoid extreme temperatures.

5. Beagle

Beagles are amazingly curious, charming, medium-sized powerhouses. Their friendly nature makes them fantastic for families and kids. Their keen sense of smell and tracking abilities make them excellent companions for adventure lovers. Like all dog breeds, they have to be socialized from a young age. They are independent and if trained well, can be left alone for 3-4 hours at a stretch. I know of Beagles that are in cohorts with their cat brothers too! 

Common Issue: Prone to obesity. 

Easy Solution: Regular exercise and a balanced diet help keep them fit.

6. Cocker Spaniel

Image Source: Pexels/Johann

Cocker Spaniels are elegant, affectionate, and playful. They love human companionship and are great with kids. Their adorable eyes and wagging tails make them one of the most sweet breeds to have at home.

Common Issue: Ear infections due to floppy ears. 

Easy Solution: Clean their ears regularly to prevent infections.

7. Indie Dogs

As a parent to two Indies, I completely vouch for this breed! India’s very own Indie dogs are resilient, incredibly intelligent, and very loyal. They thrive in Indian weather conditions and require minimal maintenance. High on energy and absolute cuddlebugs, adopt an Indie dog and you will gain a tail. One that will stick to you, and still will curl up and go to sleep when you step out for a couple hours. Early socialization is a must for this breed, and if you take them on trips with you? Oh! You’ll have the best vacation!  

Common Issue: Absolute lack of awareness about their adoption. 

Easy Solution: Promote and encourage the adoption of Indies. 

8. Labrador Retriever

Now we come to the main protagonists of many a film. Labrador Retrievers were born out of Canada but are now considered British. Think of all the adjectives you can about the goodest dog. A Lab ticks all the boxes. Labs are friendly, extremely goofy, easy to train, and make great companions for families, children, and even first-time pet parents. Oh, and they have jet engines attached to their systems. A Lab can take off running, dragging you behind faster than you can think ‘Oh no!’ Good part? They are really easy to train and most of them are very (I did say Very right?) food-oriented! Oh, and they SHED during shedding seasons. So ya, daily brushing? Mandatory. 

Common Issue: Prone to obesity. 

Easy Solution: Regular exercise and a controlled diet are essential.

9. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are the brothers of Labs. Definitions of warmth and loyalty, they are known for their gentle temperament and intelligence. Goldies, Be it white, red or fawn, make for fantastic family dogs. They excel as therapy and service dogs too!  

Common Issue: Prone to hip dysplasia. 

Easy Solution: Provide a nutritious diet and regular vet check-ups.

10. Boxer

Boxers are the goofs of the dog fam! They are energetic, loyal, and excellent family pets. They are known to be protective, so they make great watchdogs. However, they are also incredibly affectionate with their families.  

Common Issue: Prone to heart conditions. 

Easy Solution: Regular vet monitoring ensures early detection and treatment.

11. German Shepherd

I always think German Shepherds look like they would rather rule over some far-off land and make amazing kings! A breed synonymous with intelligence, loyalty, and strength, German Shepherds are excellent working dogs and loving family members. They are highly trainable and protective, making them a top choice for security and companionship alike.

Common Issue: Hip and elbow dysplasia. 

Easy Solution: Controlled exercise and vet check-ups help manage their health.

12. Rottweiler

Rottweilers are strong, intelligent, and incredibly loyal. While they may seem intimidating, they are affectionate with their families and excel as guard dogs. With proper training and socialization, they become gentle giants who are fiercely protective of their loved ones. 

Common Issue: Prone to obesity and joint issues. 

Easy Solution: A proper diet and regular exercise are key.

13. Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are stunning, very intelligent, and full of energy. Their thick fur and striking blue or multicolored eyes make them a head-turner. While they require a lot of exercise, they are loving and social dogs who thrive with active families. They are also sirens of the dog fam/ so if you are not keen on really loud howls, well, the husky is not for you. In India, huskies need to be in a temperature-controlled environment and their grooming has to happen on a daily basis.  

Common Issue: Not suited for hot climates. 

Easy Solution: Provide a cool environment and limit outdoor time during peak heat.

14. Doberman Pinscher

Dobermans are from Germany. They are intelligent, obedient, and fiercely loyal. They are excellent guard dogs and, with the right training and early socialization, can also be affectionate family pets. 

Common Issue: Prone to heart disease. 

Easy Solution: Regular check-ups with a vet help in early detection.

15. Great Dane

Despite their enormous size, Great Danes are gentle giants. They are loving, and form strong bonds with their families. Their calm demeanor makes them great pets for families with space to accommodate their size. A Yard is mandatory for a Great Dane as they are known to grow!  

Common Issue: Prone to bloat, a serious stomach condition. 

Easy Solution: Feeding smaller meals multiple times a day and avoiding exercise right after eating can help.

All dog breeds come with their quirks. No matter which breed you choose, every dog has the potential to become a beloved member of the family.