Dogs are the most common pet in the world. They are usually known as ‘man’s best friend’ as they offer great friendship to people. Thus, it is not a surprise that many Singaporeans have dogs as pets. However, do you know what are the top dog breeds in Singapore? 

Find out why these 10 dog breeds are popular in Singapore! 

#10 Pomeranian 

Pomeranians as known as, ‘Pom Pom’, have been a popular choice of family pets for a long time. The ‘Pom Pom’ has won the hearts of many families across Singapore with their petite size and foxy look. 

Some interesting facts about the Pomeranian. 

• Pomeranians make wonderful therapy dogs. You might not think that Pomeranians could be service dogs, but they are very talented. They can be therapy dogs due to their loving and affectionate nature. Additionally, they can be medical alert dogs that keep an eye on their owners with diabetes. 
• Sensitive to temperature. Pomeranians do not enjoy going out in bad weather as they might get cold. Moreover, they do not enjoy the heat either. One good way to help cool your ‘Pom Pom’ in Singapore would be to bring them to swimming pools. 
• Bark like they are big dogs. Pomeranians make fantastic guard dogs as they get suspicious of strangers. But, this may be a problem if you have neighbours. It is important to socialise your Pomeranian early to avoid dog aggression. 

#9 Poodle 

Poodles are originally bred to hunt waterfowl. They are the most recognizable of all dog breeds due to their stylish looks. They are not only pretty, but also smart.

Some interesting facts about the Poodle. 

• Poodles come in three sizes, but all follow one breed standard. We have Toy Poodles, Miniature Poodles and Standard Poodles. They all fall under the same breed despite their sizes. 
• Regardless of their size, they are highly active dogs. Poodle owners should give their dogs lots of exercise. They would enjoy a good game of fetch, jogging or long walks. As they are great water dogs, swimming is a great option for them to exercise. 
• They are fantastic service dogs. Poodles are one of the smartest dog breeds. Their eagerness to please along with their intelligence make them great service dogs. They can also be guide dogs, assistance dogs and therapy dogs. 

#8 Labrador Retriever 

Labradors have fans not only in Singapore but all over the world! Labradors are not only amazing pets but also amazing companions. Unfortunately, due to their big size, they are not allowed in HDB flats. 

Some interesting facts about the Labrador. 

• Love to eat. Obesity can be a problem if owners do not control how to feed their Labradors. Learn more about dog obesity and ways to check whether your dog is too big for its size here! 
• Need their exercise. Labradors were initially bred for physically demanding jobs. And that is why they are usually seen working with the military or as guide dogs. Thus, they need their exercise. Lack of exercise can cause them to vent their energy in other ways, such as destroying anything they can fit in their mouths. 
• Mild mannered. Labradors are intelligent, energetic and have a good natured character. Hence, they are perfect additions to the family with or without kids. 

#7 Chihuahua 

Chihuahuas are charming, smart and sassy. Even though they are the world’s smallest dogs, they are big in personality. The origin of the Chihuahua is not known. There have been two main theories. The first being that he descended from a Central or South American dog known as the Techichi. The second is that Spanish traders brought small hairless dogs from China to Mexico. They were then bred with small native dogs.

Some interesting facts about the Chihuahua. 

• Chihuahuas live for a long time. Most Chihuahuas live to be at least 10 years old and can live up to 18 years old. 
• They are perfect for those who live in HDB flats. 

#6 Miniature Schnauzer 

Miniature Schnauzer has a big heart, intelligent and are fun loving dogs. Due to their playful nature, this breed makes great family pets. They usually get on well with children but always keep them under close supervision. 

Some interesting facts about the Miniature Schnauzer.  

• Shed very little. As they shed very little, they are a dog that even the worst allergy sufferer can live with. As a bonus, you will not have dog hair in your house. But, they have to go for grooming every six weeks. 
• They can be your perfect buddy! Miniature Schnauzers can be great exercise buddies. They are able to walk several miles with you. They are also happy laying on the sofa or on your lap with you. 
• Excel in sports. They are an inquisitive and competitive breed that can be quite athletic and thrive in many sports. 

#5 Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever, the happiest looking dog! Originating from Scotland, they were initially bred to hunt waterfowl. Even till now, Golden Retrievers are often seen working with humans for various jobs.

Some interesting facts about the Golden Retriever. 

• Golden Retrievers are great for families as they are very friendly. 
• They need plenty of exercise as they were initially bred as working dogs. 
• Comes in various shades of gold. Their fur color usually darkens as they grow older. 

#4 Maltese

A gentle and fearless dog breed, the Maltese greets everyone as a friend. Even though they are purebred dogs, you may find them in the care of shelters or rescue groups. Remember to adopt if you can! 

Some interesting facts about the Maltese. 

• Have an irresistible face. They have dark, round eyes which makes them seem both alert and gentle. Pair that with the black button nose and the long head hair, often tied back with a ribbon. The Maltese is stunning on the show floor.
• Tiny athletes. Maltese are agile, talented and trainable. They enjoy competitive sports like agility and obedience. 
• It is too easy to spoil a Maltese. Maltese have learned how to get their way. They can get what they want, even from owners who intend not to spoil them. 

#3 Mixed Breeds (Mongrels) 

International breeding resulted in mixed-breed dogs, Mongrels. Usually rescued by animal shelters. Mongrels tend to grow rather big and hence they are not approved by HDBs.

Mongrels are seen living in the dumpster or in our concrete jungle. Singaporeans are giving these dogs a chance at a better life. However, many Mongrels still run wild within the confines of our concrete jungle. 

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) provides information for those who wish to adopt one of these. For those who are interested, head over to the SPCA website. Check out their adoption section, or head down to check out the dogs/puppies that are available for adoption.

Adopting a dog is an amazing way to give a dog a chance at a better life. To learn more about places to adopt dogs, read this. 

#2 Jack Russell Terrier or JRT 

Jack Russel Terriers have been a well liked breed in Singapore. They are small sized and have a playful nature. Even though JRTs are small and can fit into any living space in Singapore, they are one of the most active dogs. 

*IMPORTANT* 

If you intend to bring JRTs into your family, you have to ensure that  they get enough exercise on a daily basis. If you are unable to do so, JRTs may not be the dog breed for you. Unfortunately, there are many cases in Singapore where owners abandon their JRTs. 

Moreover, JRTs do make great companions and are great additions to your family. 

Some facts about the JRT. 

• JRTs do not do well in small spaces. Due to their hyper activity, it is almost a must to walk them daily. They need large spaces to vent off their hyper activity. 
• Best to play catch with! They were first bred as hunting dogs. With their amazing speed and dexterity, they are awesome to play catch with. 
• Need regular grooming. They shed a lot…A LOT. They need to shed to maintain their health coat. So, be prepared to groom and brush them regularly. 

#1 Shih Tzu 

Did you expect this? Shih Tzu is simply adorable. Their name “Shih Tzu” means “Lion Dog”.  Shih Tzu may look fierce but there is nothing fierce about them. They are affectionate, happy and outgoing.

Some facts about the Shih Tzu. 

• Prone to heat stroke. Due to their flat face shape, the air inhaled is not efficiently cooled unlike other dogs. 
• More than 1,000 years old. The breed’s ancestry goes back even further than that. Records show that short, square, “under the table” dogs existed in China as early as 1,000 B.C. 
• Also called “Chrysanthemum-Faced Dogs”. That is because Shih Tzu’s hair on their faces grows in every direction.