Emerging Non-Native Dog Breeds in India

India’s pet-dog landscape is quietly evolving, especially post-covid. While Labradors, German Shepherds, and Pugs have long dominated Indian households, a new wave of non-native dog breeds is gaining attention among informed pet owners. Driven by increased exposure to global pet culture, social media influence, and a growing emphasis on temperament and lifestyle fit, Indian families are now exploring breeds that were virtually unseen in the country a decade ago. From intelligent working dogs and refined companion breeds to modern guard dogs suited for private homes, these emerging non-native breeds reflect a shift from conventional choices to more intentional, research-driven ownership.

Below is a list of 15 dog breeds, even though still fewer in numbers, that are gaining popularity in India, and why:-

1. Border Collie

Rising awareness of canine intelligence, agility sports, and advanced training has made Border Collies attractive to experienced owners seeking a highly engaging, mentally stimulating companion rather than a passive pet.

Size – Medium

Life Expectancy: 12-13 years

Click here to learn more about the Border Collie.

2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Urban families are increasingly drawn to Cavaliers for their gentle temperament, compact size, and adaptability to apartment living, offering a calmer alternative to hyperactive small breeds.

Size - Small

Life Expectancy: 10-14 years

Click here to learn more about the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

3. Whippet

Whippets appeal to modern urban households due to their quiet indoor nature, minimal grooming needs, and ability to balance athleticism outdoors with calm behaviour indoors, traits well-suited to city life.

Size – Medium

Life Expectancy: 12–15 years

Click here to learn more about the Whippet.

4. Italian Greyhound

The breed’s small size, cleanliness, and elegant appearance have made it popular among ultra-urban and design-conscious pet owners looking for a low-shedding, low-noise companion.

Size: Small

Life Expectancy: 14–15 years

Click here to learn more about the Italian Greyhound.

5. Australian Shepherd

Indian dog enthusiasts and sport-oriented owners are turning to Australian Shepherds for their intelligence, versatility, and strong bonding tendencies, especially as interest in obedience and agility training grows.

Size – Medium

Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years

Click here to learn more about the Australian Shepherd.

6. Bernese Mountain Dog

Despite climate challenges, Bernese Mountain Dogs are gaining attention as “gentle giants,” appealing to families with space who prioritise temperament, child-friendliness, and emotional bonding over guarding ability.

Size – Large

Life Expectancy: 8-12 years

Click here to learn more about the Bernese Mountain Dog.

7. Boerboel

Boerboels are emerging as a modern guard-dog choice for large homes and farmhouses, offering strong territorial instincts combined with a calmer, more family-oriented temperament than traditional guard breeds.

Size – Large

Life Expectancy: 9–11 years

Click here to learn more about the Boerboel.

8. Samoyed

The Samoyed’s friendly personality, expressive appearance, and social-media-driven popularity have fueled demand among owners seeking a visually striking yet family-friendly companion distinct from Huskies.

Size – Medium

Life Expectancy: 12-13 years

Click here to learn more about the Samoyed.

9. Weimaraner

Weimaraners are gaining traction among active Indian families for their athleticism, loyalty, and sleek appearance, especially as more owners seek energetic outdoor companions rather than sedentary pets.

Size – Large

Life Expectancy: 10–13 years

Click here to learn more about the Weimaraner.

10. Shetland Sheepdog

Shelties attract owners looking for intelligence and trainability in a smaller package, benefiting from increased awareness of herding breeds that combine obedience with family compatibility.

Size – Small-Medium

Life Expectancy: 12–14 years

Click here to learn more about the Shetland Sheepdog.

11. Schnauzer

Schnauzers, especially Miniature Schnauzers, are popular due to their low-shedding coats, alert nature, and adaptability to apartment living, making them appealing to households concerned about hygiene and allergies.

Size – Available in different sizes

Life Expectancy: Miniature (12-14 years), Standard (13-16 years), Giant (10-12 years)

Click here to learn more about the Schnauzer.

12. Belgian Malinois

The breed’s growing visibility in security forces, professional training circles, and online working-dog content has increased interest among serious, experienced owners seeking high-drive protection dogs.

Size – Medium

Life Expectancy: 12–14 years

Click here to learn more about the Belgian Malinois.

13. Dutch Shepherd

Dutch Shepherds are emerging as an alternative to Malinois for informed buyers who want similar intelligence and work ethic but with slightly more balance for home integration.

Size – Medium-Large

Life Expectancy: 11–14 years

Click here to learn more about the Dutch Shepherd.

14. American Akita

Akitas are attracting niche interest for their powerful appearance, loyalty, and calm, reserved nature, particularly among owners looking for a dignified guard-companion rather than an overtly aggressive breed.

Size – Large

Life Expectancy: 10–13 years

Click here to learn more about the American Akita.

15. Presa Canario

Demand for Presa Canarios is rising among large-property owners seeking a strong deterrent dog with natural guarding instincts and a controlled, confident temperament when properly trained.

Size – Large

Life Expectancy: 9–11 years

Click here to learn more about the Presa Canario.