Dogs have historically been an integral part of human civilisation, be it their hunting and tracking skills at the dawn of civilization or their cuddling or playful antics in the modern age. Dogs have always filled our homes with endless loyalty and tail-wagging and adopting one can always be a life-changing experience but, at the same time a challenge. There are several aspects one must consider when adopting a dog which is mentioned in detail in our blog ‘Guide to Pre-Parenting Stage of Dog Adoption’. With this let’s look at some of the most common breeds available in India and their pros and cons of adoption. 

Labrador Retriever

Specializing in retrieving waterfowl and working primarily as gun dogs, the Labrador later became adept at the sport of pet, eventually entering the role of the beloved family friend we know these days. Today, the Labrador is known as the most famous dog breed throughout the world, including India. 

For a more detailed view, check out our dog wiki page for Labrador Retrievers.

Golden Retrievers

Originally from the Scottish Highlands, golden retrievers were bred to be active and have a soft mouth for game retrieval, as they were commonly used as hunting dogs. Thanks to their extremely friendly nature, the breed came to prominence in the United Kingdom as family pets before becoming cherished family members all over the world.

For a more detailed view, check out our dog wiki page for Golden Retrievers.

German Shepherd

As their name suggests, German shepherds are a dog breed that originated from Germany. This canine companion has long served as both companion and servant for humans. During the First and Second World Wars, the 'German' word was dropped, and the dog breed became known as the Shepherd Dog or Alsatian. Their loyal and disciplinarian nature not only allowed them to be ideal police dogs but also to become cherished family members worldwide, including in India.

For a more detailed view, check out our dog wiki page for German Shepherd.

Beagle

Beagles were initially used as hunting hares and also as flushing games for hunters and gun dogs. The breed was developed over time in England and later became a widely recognized and refined breed in North America by the end of the 19th century. Today's Beagles are still used in hunting and are considered good family dogs and companions.

For a more detailed view, check out our dog wiki page for Beagle.

Pug

The Pug, a beloved toy breed, has origins dating back to 400 B.C. when similar dogs were bred in ancient China. Some believe Dutch traders brought them to Europe, while others suggest they descended from short-haired Pekingese or small Bulldogs. Favoured by royalty, Pugs became popular in European courts, especially in Victorian times. Recognized for their charm and intelligence, Pugs excel as watchdogs and performers. Today, they are cherished for their loyalty, expressive faces, and endearing, fun-loving personalities.

For a more detailed view, check out our dog wiki page for Pug.

Shih-Tzu

The Shih-Tzu, resembling a small lion, originated in Tibet and was bred in the Forbidden City of Peking by crossing the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese. The first pair was imported to England in 1930, and the breed was recognized in Britain in 1946 and by the American Kennel Club in the United States in 1969. Today, the Shih-Tzu is a popular companion and show dog all over the world, including India.

For a more detailed view, check out our dog wiki page for Shih-Tzu.

Rottweiler

Rottweilers are considered to be one of the oldest surviving furry companions and have been serving us humans from Roman times as driving or herder dogs. In the 1930s, these dogs were first taken to Britain and were authorized by the Kennel Club in the year 1966. From there they slowly gained popularity, first as a herding dog and later as a family companion.

For a more detailed view, check out our dog wiki page for the Rottweiler.

Pomeranian

The Pomeranian has origins steeped in the history of the German Spitz. Known for their abundant, fluffy coats and fox-like faces, Pomeranians gained prominence as lap dogs in the 18th century, charming both nobles and commoners. Admired for their vivacious personality, they became cherished companions and alert watchdogs. Today, Pomeranians are celebrated for their lively, affectionate nature and sharp intelligence. They remain popular for their distinctive look, charm, and playful demeanour.

For a more detailed view, check out our dog wiki page for the Pomeranian.

Boxer

The boxer breed originated in Germany in the late 19th century, a descendant of the now-extinct Bullenbeiser which was crossed with bulldogs to produce hunting dogs. Originally bred for hunting large game such as deer and bears, they also started to get used as cattle herders. It wasn’t long before they found themselves on the front of the First World War. After the end of the Great War, their popularity surged when soldiers began to take them back to their homes in the United Kingdom and the United States of America, from there, their popularity surged on a global scale. 

For a more detailed view, check out our dog wiki page for the Boxer.

Dachshund

The Dachshund was first developed in two sizes. In the past, the standard size continued to hunt badgers and wild boar, while the miniatures chased foxes and hares. In Germany, there is also a medium-sized Dachshund. Its slender, long body along with a courageous and smart personality may breed an alarming opponent for foxes, hares, and badgers. The breed arrived in America as early as 1885 and it was recognized by the AKC, but it gained fame in the 1930s and 1940s, from there on it gained international fame. 

For a more detailed view, check out our dog wiki page for the Dachshund.