The Philippine Canine Club registered 72,857 puppies in 2023,1 a testament to the love that Filipino people have for their dogs. Humans have had a relationship with canines for thousands of years. Unlike cats, dogs have worked in various jobs, from guardians to animal companions. This diversity is reflected in the popular dog breeds of the Philippines.
Many breeds are favorites in nearby countries, which explains their places on this list. Of course, pop culture also has a significant influence on driving trends. So, which breeds are the most popular in this part of the world?
The 15 Most Popular Dog Breeds in the Philippines
1. Shih Tzu
| Weight: | 9–16 pounds |
| Height: | 9–10.5 inches |
| Temperament: | Outgoing, playful, friendly |
The Shih Tzu is the country’s most popular dog, and it’s easy to understand why. This pup is the quintessential animal companion. They get along with everybody but are happy to stay on your lap and enjoy your affection. The breed originated in Tibet, which is relatively close to the Philippines. Shih Tzu are minimal shedders, though regular grooming is necessary to maintain their long coats.
2. Pug
| Weight: | 14–18 pounds |
| Height: | 10–13 inches |
| Temperament: | Affectionate, stubborn, charming |
Few dogs are as entertaining and endearing as the Pug. This breed is a canine clown with a mischievous edge. They aren’t overly energetic, but they are intense. The Pug is used to being spoiled as a favorite breed of early Chinese royalty. They’re an adaptable dog that does well in the city or the country. It’s worth noting that the Philippines has the highest pet ownership in Asia.2
3. Toy Poodle
| Weight: | 4–6 pounds |
| Height: | Up to 10 inches high |
| Temperament: | Intelligent, friendly, affectionate |
Poodles come in three sizes, so everyone can enjoy this happy-go-lucky breed. They’re the second most intelligent breed. They also don’t shed. What more can you ask from an animal companion? The Poodle is also the most popular pup in Vietnam.3 It’s surprising how this dog that we think of as elegant and frilly was originally bred as a hunting companion. The distinctive haircut prevented mats, thus contributing to their success as a companion.
4. Pomeranian
| Weight: | 3–7 pounds |
| Height: | 6–7 pounds |
| Temperament: | Feisty, lively, curious |
The Pomeranian is about as cute as they come, especially if you keep your pet in a puppy cut to make grooming easier. The feistiness of this dog belies how tiny they are. There are several theories behind this behavior, but perhaps they just want to be heard. They are affectionate with family members but wary of strangers. Otherwise, they’re laidback dogs that just want to have fun.
5. Golden Retriever
| Weight: | 55–75 pounds |
| Height: | 21.5–24 inches |
| Temperament: | Friendly, intelligent, energetic |
The Golden Retriever is a favorite in many Asian countries, including India, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Their place on this list isn’t a surprise. This breed is probably one of the most devoted and affectionate dogs you’ll find. They’re a breed that always acts like a puppy, no matter how old. Retrievers are easy to train because they’re so eager to please. Make sure this pup has plenty to do to prevent boredom, though.
6. Shiba Inu
| Weight: | 17–23 pounds |
| Height: | 13.5–16.5 inches |
| Temperament: | Adaptable, loyal, energetic |
The Shiba Inu has lots of fans in Asia, including Hong Kong and Singapore. They’re one of six Japanese spitz-type dogs. They’re an ancient breed originally bred for hunting. This dog is adaptable and will make a good pet for apartment dwellers. Like many companion animals, this pup doesn’t like to be left alone. They form strong bonds with family and can’t bear to be apart from them.
7. Labrador Retriever
| Weight: | 55–80 pounds |
| Height: | 21.5–24 inches |
| Temperament: | Energetic, hard-working, easy-going |
The Labrador Retriever is a fitting dog to have on our list. Everyone loves a Lab! After all, they’re the world’s third most popular breed.4 This is a hard-working canine, whether in the field flushing game or playing fetch at the beach. They’re an intelligent dog that is easy to train and eager to please. They’re a good choice for active families who are able to give this pup plenty of attention.
8. Chow Chow
| Weight: | 45–70 pounds |
| Height: | 17–20 inches |
| Temperament: | Independent, dignified, protective |
The Chow Chow is more cat-like in their behavior and appearance. They were selectively bred as working dogs in their native land of China. They aren’t overly affectionate with family, though they are highly devoted to them. They have an independent streak that may make this dog seem aloof. The truth is that they’re wary of strangers. Scientists don’t know why they have blue tongues, though—a trait they share with giraffes and polar bears.5
9. Beagle
| Weight: | 20–30 pounds |
| Height: | 13–15 inches |
| Temperament: | Happy-go-lucky, curious, playful |
Part of what makes Beagles so lovable is that they’re friendly, happy dogs. These pups are born hunters with their noses to the ground in search of game. They have a high wanderlust potential and a strong prey drive. However, they are affectionate pets and both kid and dog friendly. Beagles can be vocal, which you should try to control from when they’re puppies.
10. Chihuahua
| Weight: | Under 6 pounds |
| Height: | 5–8 inches |
| Temperament: | Charming, feisty, protective |
For a small dog, the Chihuahua can be quite a handful. Perhaps that’s what makes them so endearing to pet owners. This is an ancient breed native to Mexico. They’re affectionate with family but aren’t as open to strangers, so they might be protective sometimes. Chihuahuas aren’t active animals; they’re more content to sit on your lap and look cute.
11. German Shepherd Dog
| Weight: | 50–90 pounds |
| Height: | 22–26 inches |
| Temperament: | Dignified, confident, loyal |
The German Shepherd has a lot of fans worldwide as the second most popular breed. They’re also the top dog in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. They are the guardian you want by your side because of their fierce loyalty and courage. They are highly intelligent and easy to train for various tasks too.
12. Dalmatian
| Weight: | 45–70 pounds |
| Height: | 19–24 inches |
| Temperament: | Intelligent, affectionate, energetic |
The Dalmatian surprised us at first. However, there was that movie about 101 of them. This pup is also popular in several other countries, including the United Kingdom and Croatia, where the breed originated. People selectively bred the Dalmatian as a hunting dog. They’re probably best known as firehouse mascots, though.
13. Doberman Pinscher
| Weight: | 60–100 pounds |
| Height: | 24–28 inches |
| Temperament: | Courageous, intelligent, protective |
The Doberman Pinscher has a formidable stance that commands your attention. This pup has a strong presence. That might be part of the appeal for this German working dog. While Dobermans look fierce, they’re also playful and affectionate animals, with an eye always on their family members. They look just as handsome with their ears uncropped as cropped.
14. Border Collie
| Weight: | 30–55 pounds |
| Height: | 18–22 inches |
| Temperament: | Intelligent, active, affectionate |
The Border Collie is the most intelligent dog breed. That’s good if you’re looking for a pup that is easy to train to take on the show circuit. These canines are also highly active and must get adequate mental stimulation to prevent boredom. These dogs can be vocal, so you’ll need to work on that issue when they’re puppies, but they will definitely keep up with the kids.
15. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
| Weight: | Up to 30 pounds |
| Height: | 10–12 |
| Temperament: | Happy, active, playful |
Many associate the Pembroke Welsh Corgi with the late Queen Elizabeth II. The breed is quite popular in the United States, Finland, and the Philippines. They are hardy and alert animals, well-suited to their role as cattle rustlers. They are intelligent but can be willful at times. These pups need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation for a good quality of life.
Conclusion
Our list of the most popular breeds in the Philippines contains many global favorites. Dogs fulfill a vital need in our lives. They provide companionship and unconditional love, something anyone desires no matter where you live on the planet. There’s a good reason that canines have been our best friends for thousands of years.
Related Reads:
- Most Popular Dog Breeds in Nigeria
- 13 Pet Industry Statistics in the Philippines to Know: Trends, Market Size & FAQ
Featured Image Credit: Aneta Jungerova, Shutterstock
The 15 Most Popular Dog Breeds in the Philippines
2 Responses
I think this list is not quite TRUE. In the Philippines, there's a breed we call ASPIN (Philippine native dogs), and most, if not all, households raise this breed. I am not sure how this particular survey was conducted, but I suspect the respondents were not entirely truthful with their answers, or they answered the survey in a way to please those who commissioned it. It's sad aspins are not mentioned even once in this article. They are being cast out even though they comprise the majority of the dog population in the Philippines.
Hello Roy,
thank you for your feedback. You are correct, that aspin may be one of the most common dogs in Philippines, and we are sorry to hear about them being cast out.
To explain our article and not including aspin in there – We limited our article on the recognized breeds and unfortunately, aspin as a breed is not recognized by any major kennel club.
Hope this answers your question.