Do you want to get a dog as a pet? If yes, you’ve come to the right place. If you know which type of dog is best for you and your family, raising a pet dog in an Indian household could be an invaluable experience. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best Dogs for Home in India. Popular breeds include the Labrador, German Shepherd, Pug, Golden Retriever, and Beagle, among others which are also widely available in the country. They are well-known for their wit, loyalty, and intelligence. In addition, these breeds are easy to train and are ideal for apartment living. In the list below, we discuss 15 such dogs.
1) Labrador Retriever
Breed Traits
- Group: Sporting Group
- Height: 55 to 65 cm
- Weight: 25 to 38 kg
- Coat: Dense double coat of short length
- Colour: Black, yellow, and chocolate
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 13 Years
- Temperament: Friendly, energetic, and outgoing
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Buying Price: INR 7,000 to 52,750 – Link
- Origin: Newfoundland
The Labrador is first on our list of the best dogs for homes in India. This breed was once known as the fisherman’s helper, as they assisted in roping in fish in the North Atlantic. Labradors are hard-working and friendly dogs. These water-loving dogs are loyal and lively and make excellent family members and hunting partners. Throughout the breed’s history, Labrador Retrievers have demonstrated their utility and versatility, easily transitioning from fisherman’s companion to field retriever, show dog, and modern working dog. One role, however, has not changed: fantastic companion and friend.
2) German Shepherd
Breed Traits
- Group: Herding Group
- Height: 55 to 70 cm
- Weight: 22 to 40 kg
- Coat: Double coat of medium length with the undercoat being soft and the outer coat being dense and harsh.
- Colour: Black, black and red, black and cream, black and tan, black and silver, grey, blue, sable, bi-colour, and white.
- Life Expectancy: 7 to 11 Years
- Temperament: Courageous, smart, energetic, and confident.
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Buying Price: INR 20,000 to 72,800 – Price link
- Origin: Germany
German shepherds, also known as GSDs, are medium- to large-sized dogs. This breed originated in Germany, where they got their name. The German Shepherd resembles a wolf and is always ready to protect you. However, beneath that tough exterior lies a mushy canine who adores their family. When given the option of staying in and watching a movie or going for a full-day hike, a German Shepherd will undoubtedly prefer the latter. They are not only loyal and caring, but they also make excellent watchdogs. These characteristics are also why German Shepherds are commonly used for rescue operations, handicap assistance, military, police, and acting roles.
3) Golden Retriever
Breed Traits
- Group: Sporting Group
- Height: 52 to 60 cm
- Weight: 24 to 30 kg
- Coat: Double coat of medium length.
- Colour: Golden, light golden, and dark golden.
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 13 years
- Temperament: Friendly, devoted, and clever.
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Buying Price: INR 12,000 to 58,500
- Origin: Scotland
Golden retrievers are incredibly cute apartment-friendly pups that are popular with Indians. Golden retrievers are well-known for being obedient and caring. Because of their lavish double coats, these dogs should be groomed on a regular basis. The shedding of fur can make a mess; to avoid such inconveniences, brush the dog’s hair daily. This breed is intelligent and trainable, and they excel in dog competitions.
They are also excellent watchdogs due to their decent size. Golden retrievers are smart and simple to train. Because of their high energy levels, they require indoor and outdoor exercise. The breed has an innate love of water. The breed is especially suitable for suburban or rural settings.
4) Pug
Breed Traits
- Group: Toy Group.
- Height: 25 to 35 cm
- Weight: 6 to 9 kg
- Coat: Short and smooth coat.
- Colour: Black and fawn.
- Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
- Temperament: Friendly, charming, playful, and loving.
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Buying Price: INR 9,600 to 35,500
- Origin: China
Pugs are well-known as one of the best dog breeds for homes in India. This breed is simple to care for because it sheds very little hair. It has physical characteristics that include a short-muzzled face, a wrinkled body, and a curled tail. Pugs have a glossy, fine coat that comes in a variety of colours. This is one of the best dog breeds for homes in India because they tend to be more sociable and make excellent companions.
Pugs are known to be low-maintenance dogs who do not really require a lot of space. On the other hand, a puppy-proofed home is our best bet for avoiding any potential damage. These sociable pets generally require a daily walk of about 15-20 minutes. They are thought to be the best friends of children.
5) Beagle
Breed Traits
- Group: Hound Group
- Height: 12 to 15 inches
- Weight: 20 to 30 pounds
- Coat: Smooth and dense couple coat.
- Colour: Upto to 25 different combinations that include the colours – tan, white, lemon, brown, red, redtick, blue, bluetick, black, and fawn.
- Life Expectancy: 11 to 15 years
- Temperament: Sweet, gentle, active, and energetic.
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Buying Price: INR 17,040 to 61,800
- Origin: Great Britain
The Beagle is a small hound dog developed primarily for hare hunting. The breed has outstanding and superior tracking instincts. It is among the dogs used as police dogs to prevent illegal agricultural and food imports worldwide, particularly during quarantine. Beagles are intelligent and popular because of their good temperament, size, and lack of health issues.
Despite their high energy levels, beagles can live comfortably in 500-square-foot homes. These dogs prefer to spend their time indoors in the company of humans. Stimulation is essential for keeping them occupied. It is, without a doubt, one of the very best household dogs in India.
6) Indian Pariah Dog
Breed Traits
- Group: Not labelled
- Height: 45 to 65 cm
- Weight: 15 to 30 kg
- Coat: Double coat of short length with a coarse undercoat and a soft and smooth upper coat.
- Colour: Fawn, black, white, red, brown.
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 14 years
- Temperament: Social, alert, and loving.
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Buying Price: INR 2,000 to 8,000 (click here to check detailed Indian Pariah Dog Price)
- Origin: Indian Subcontinent
An Indian pariah dog, also known as a desi, mixed breed, mutt, or indie dog, is the best dog for an Indian home. As the name implies, Indian Pariah dogs are dogs of Indian origin. They are among the most adaptable and versatile dog breeds available in India. Besides being highly intelligent and friendly, Indian Pariah dogs are devoted, loving, and street-smart. Clearly, this is among the easiest desi breeds to train.
The breed is used as a police and guard dog. Erect ears and a wedge-shaped head distinguish the Indian Pariah dog. Because they are relatively simple to train, Indian Pariah dogs happen to be wonderful family pets. They work well with both children and adults. They have a lot of energy and help kids live active lifestyles. As a result, they are among the best dogs for Indian homes.
7) Great Dane
Breed Traits
- Group: Working Group
- Height: 28 to 32 inches
- Weight: 110 to 175 pounds
- Coat: Smooth and short coat
- Colour: Red, white, fawn, brindle, and hat.
- Life Expectancy: 7 to 11 years
- Temperament: Dependable, friendly, and patient.
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Buying Price: INR 60,000 to 139,750
- Origin: Germany
The Great Dane is a German breed known for its large size. The breed is also referred to as the German Mastiff, the Boarhound, the Deutsche Dogge, and the Appolo of Dogs. Great Danes have existed for a long time, as evidenced by artefacts depicting Dane-like dogs dating back thousands of years. The breed is devoted, wise, and simple to train. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are one of the friendliest dogs around. Despite their size, Great Danes are considered gentle giants who are mildly playful and excellent with children. Nevertheless, the owner must be prepared to accommodate the dog’s large size in terms of space and feeding, both of which can be expensive.
8) Dachshund
Breed Traits
- Group: Hound Group
- Height: 5 to 9 inches
- Weight: 10 to 32 pounds
- Coat: Smooth coat of short to medium lengths.
- Colour: Black, black and tan, black and fawn, blue and cream, blue and tan, chocolate, chocolate and cream, fawn, red, cream, wheaten, blue and cream, fawn and cream, fawn and tan, and chocolate and tan.
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
- Temperament: Curious, lively, friendly, and clever.
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Buying Price: INR 9,000 to 20,400
- Origin: Germany
The short-legged, long-bodied dachshund is also known as a sausage dog, badger dog, and wiener dog. They are adorable small-sized dogs that are ideal for small apartment spaces. These tiny-legged pups are widely recognized for their loud barks, which can irritate other residents. It is a good idea to keep them busy by providing them with toys or taking them on walks to keep their minds occupied. These puppies are faithful to their owners, are great at expressing their emotions, and are overall a joy to be around, making them one of the best choices for Indian homes.
9) Dalmatian
Breed Traits
- Group: Non-sporting Group
- Height: 20 to 25 inches
- Weight: 45 to 70 pounds
- Coat: Smooth and short coat
- Colour: White and black; white and liver brown; white and lemon; white and orange; white, liver, and tan; and white, black and tan.
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 13 years
- Temperament: Sensitive, playful, loyal, and energetic.
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Buying Price: INR 20,000 to 50,000
- Origin: Croatia
Dalmatians are known to be athletic as well as sleek. This breed is well-known for being the star of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians. Dalmatians are large dogs with distinctive white coats with spots of black or liver colour. Historically, they have been primarily used as carriage dogs. It is a popular family pet and is regarded as one of the best breeds for Indian homes. They are playful, highly energetic, and sensitive dogs who are devoted to their owners and good with children, though a few Dalmatian experts warn that the breed could be too energetic for really young kids. Nevertheless, these dogs are clever, trainable, and make excellent watchdogs.
10) Boxer
Breed Traits
- Group: Working group
- Height: 21 to 25 inches
- Weight: 50 to 80 pounds
- Coat: Smooth and shot=rt coat
- Colour: Fawn, brindle, and white.
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 13 years
- Temperament: Intelligent, energetic, and fun-loving.
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Buying Price: INR 24,000 to 61,745
- Origin: Germany
The Boxer is the next best dog for Indian homes on our list. The breed has a large head and body, a square muzzle, and powerful jaws. Boxer dogs were bred to be medium-sized guard dogs, but they now find homes as wonderful family companions. Having said that, they still have a lot of energy and require a lot of exercise. Boxers make excellent family pets due to their low grooming requirements as well as fabled dedication and gentleness with kids, as long as they receive adequate physical and mental stimulation.
The breed is simple to train and care for. Boxers are suitable for all types of families due to their size and build, making them one of the finest breeds of dog in India for the home. The breed is naturally friendly, alert, fearless, intelligent, and friendly. They are devoted to their family and enjoy playing with them, but they can be stubborn, especially if harsh training methods are used on them.
11) Doberman Pinscher
Breed Traits
- Group: Working Group
- Height: 24 to 28 inches
- Weight: 60 to 100 pounds
- Coat: Smooth and short coat
- Colour: White, blue and rust, black and rust, red and rust, and fawn and rust.
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 13 years
- Temperament: Alert, fearless, and loyal
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Buying Price: INR 5,000 to 20,000
- Origin: Germany
Doberman Pinschers are medium to large-sized breeds of dogs. It has a long muzzle, and its feet are not as heavy as other dogs. Dobermanns are intelligent, loyal, and alert, putting them among the list of best dogs for Indian homes. Furthermore, the breed is simple to train. Doberman pinschers are people-oriented dogs who are gentle, loving and sweet with people if properly socialised and trained.
They are devoted to their owners and are gentle with kids if brought up with them; even so, some Dobermans form attachments to only one person. They are strong, energetic dogs that require a lot of exercise. They are highly likely to become agitated or even aggressive if they aren’t exercised. However, they can adapt well to apartment living if they are exercised daily and properly trained from a young age.
12) Bulldog
Breed Traits
- Group: Non-sporting Group
- Height: 12 to 15 inches
- Weight: 40 to 50 pounds
- Coat: Smooth coat of short length
- Colour: Fawn; brindle; fawn and brindle; fawn and white; fawn, brindle, and white; red; red and brindle; red, white, and brindle; fallow; and white.
- Life Expectancy: 8 to 10 years
- Temperament: Courageous, friendly, and calm.
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Buying Price: INR 45,000 to 93,000
- Origin: United Kingdom
The Bulldog, also known as the British Bulldog and the English Bulldog, is a medium-sized dog. The dog has a wrinkled face and a nose that is pushed in. The breed originated in England and has since become a national symbol. Although they were bred to be fighting dogs – a worldwide symbol of toughness and tenacity – bulldogs subsequently managed to evolve into gentle, family-oriented dogs who prefer to spend their time indoors. Bulldogs are typically laid-back and require little exercise, with even leisurely strolls sufficing.
They must not be exposed to scorching heat or sunlight, as these conditions can raise their body temperatures. Bulldogs are prone to skin irritation as well as regular scratching, biting, and scraping, so their living quarters must be clean and well-kept.
13) Pomeranian
Breed Traits
- Group: Toy Group
- Height: 6 to 8 inches
- Weight: 3 to 8 pounds
- Coat: Double coat of long length
- Colour: Black; black and brindle; black and tan; blue; blue merle; blue and tan; brindle; blue brindle; chocolate; chocolate and tan; cream; cream sable; red, orange; orange sable; red; red sable; wolf sable; white; beaver; chocolate sable; chocolate merle, beaver sable; blue sable; and tri-coloured.
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
- Temperament: Bold, smart, lively, curious, feisty, and energetic.
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Buying Price: INR 3,600 to 18,000
- Origin: North-west Poland and North-east Germany
In India, the Pomeranian is considered to be one of the best house pets. The now-tiny Pomeranians are direct descendants of large sledge dog breeds and have a long and fascinating history. The breed, which originated in Mexico, is known for its tiny size and was previously owned by several royalties. This fox-faced dog is compact, energetic, and competent in agility and obedience competitions, as well as in purely being a family friend. With the popularity of small dogs rising, the breed dominates the list of top-rated dogs suitable for small houses.
14) Indian Spitz
Breed Traits
- Height: 11 to 15 inches
- Weight: 10 to 20 kg
- Coat: Double coat
- Colour: Black, White and Dusky Brown.
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
- Temperament: Intelligent, energetic, and playful.
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Buying Price: INR 3,600 to 15,000
- Origin: Indian Subcontinent
Indian Spitz dogs belong to the large Spitz family, which includes long-haired dogs with sharp pointed ears and muzzles. This dog breed, frequently confused with Pomeranians in India, was and continues to be one of the country’s most popular domestic dog options. Indian spitz dogs are small and intelligent, requiring little training. However, these white furry pups are energetic and require a lot of room to move around. These dogs shed, but they generally keep themselves tidy and don’t cause too many issues for their owners. Their coats, however, must be brushed on a regular basis to ensure their health and maintenance.
15) Chihuahua
Breed Traits
- Group: Toy Group
- Height: 5 to 8 inches
- Weight: 3 to 6 pounds
- Coat: Smooth coat of medium length
- Colour: Black; black and silver; black and white; black and tan; blue; blue and tan; blue fawn; blue and white; blue merle; chocolate; chocolate and tan; cream; Cream and white; fawn; gold; fawn and white; gold and white; red; red and white; silver; white; silver and white; chocolate and white; black sabled fawn; black sabled silver; chocolate brindles fawn; fawn brindled black; blue brindled fawn; and chocolate blue.
- Life Expectancy: 15 to 16 years
- Temperament: Graceful, charming, and sassy.
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Buying Price: INR 30,095 to 160,000
- Origin: Mexico
Chihuahuas adore being with their owners and require little grooming and exercise. They make great apartment dogs and tend to get along with everyone in the family. Because they shed less fur, these small-sized watchdogs require little grooming and upkeep. They tend to be loud and energetic; however, some training may help effectively tame them.
These nuggets enjoy being caressed and cuddled. They enjoy spending their evenings on their owners’ laps. They can go for walks and exercise regardless of the weather. Chihuahuas that don’t get enough physical or mental stimulation may become destructive. The more socialisation and walking your pet receives, the more occupied its mind will be.
Summary
Dogs are among the world’s most intelligent and faithful animals. However, various dog breeds differ from each other in many ways. This blog lists the 15 best dog breeds in India that are suitable for families. The breeds listed above are widely available in India as well as all throughout the world.