We have called ‘dogs’ a man’s best friend for as long as we can recall. Hence, while most of us have kept dogs for guarding and protection, today, the idea of keeping them as pets has completely changed. Instead, 60% of dog owners have made the choice to opt for a furry friend/companion that can help eradicate loneliness and boredom.
Dogs are playful, faithful, happy and super active. While some of the breeds are dangerous and rare, others are super adorable and cute. Moreover, this millennium has brought a grave shift in what is believed to be cool and ‘in’. If you also want to keep a furry friend or a strong guard, here’s a list of dog breeds that are thriving in Pakistan.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are the most common dogs in Pakistan. They are medium to large-sized, working dogs. Interestingly, they were named “Alsatian Wolf Dog” in the UK after the First World War.
German Shepherd is an intelligent, vigilant and an obedient breed. Moreover, the trainability is high and you can easily teach it anything according to your needs.
Moreover, the standard height for males is 60–65 cm (24–26 in) and for female dogs is 55–60 cm (22–24 in). They can live from 9 to 13 years and make amazing guard dogs as pets.
Labrador Retriever
Labradors are super friendly and ferocious at the same time. They make perfect guard dogs and are the most popular breed in various countries. Additionally, labs are the most prized dogs for hunting and sporting activities.
The average Labrador weighs 29–36 kg (65–80 lb) and female labs weigh 25–32 kg (55–70 lb). They are medium-large sized dogs that is perfect for every family as pets.
Moreover, Labradors can be effortlessly trained to aid the blind, people with autism and even assist people on wheelchairs. They are the 3rd most popular breed in Pakistan because of their amiable nature as well as for the ability to guard and protect people and properties from strangers.
Pug
The Pug is a cute, small-sized dog. It has wrinkly skin and a short-muzzled face. Interestingly, Pugs come in various colors and own a soft, shiny thick coat. Pugs are socially friendly and amiable dogs. They make great companions and are easy to pet considering their upkeep, food, and shelter.
Pugs are rarely aggressive, which makes them the perfect pet for families with children. Additionally, since they are only 26- 35 cm tall and weigh only 15 pounds approximately, these cuties are ideal as pets. Pugs can live up to 15 years if you take care of them in the right way.
Doberman Pinscher
This medium – large sized domestic dog has a long muzzle and stands tall. Dobermans are tenacious, alert, loyal and usually ferocious. Their aggressive and stubborn personality makes them perfect guard and hunting dogs.
The average height is 70cm and the approximate weight is 40-45 kg. Moreover, they own a muscular and solid appearance and are not furry at all. Since they learn to love their owners quickly, people love keeping them as pets in Pakistan.
Rottweiler
I have seen many Rottweiler dogs as pets in households. However, initially they were known as Rottweiler Metzgerhund in German, which depicts Rottweiler Butchers. Rottweiler dogs were used to herd livestock and pull carts for butchers. As time passed, these dogs replaced their duties and became superior guard dogs, watch dogs, hunting dogs and even police dogs.
Rottweiler dogs are powerful, strong, alert, quick and very aggressive. Interestingly, this breed is very trendy to keep but is equally expensive to maintain. Since Rottweiler dogs are considered killer dogs, they prefer eating meat and high protein meals. Eggs, meat, chicken and other protein rich food are their usual diet and hence, they can be expensive to keep.
Poodles
Poodles have to be the cutest dogs alive with the most adorable face. They own a very nice, silky, yet curly fur and are super cuddly. Moreover, since they are small sized dogs, they make the perfect indoor pet for families.
Interestingly, Poodles are as friendly as they look and they are rarely ferocious. Surprisingly, they are intelligent, vigilant, loyal, friendly and very active. You can play with them for hours and not get bored.
They usually weigh between 45 to 70 pounds and are only 11 to 15 inches tall. This however depends on the type of Poodle you are talking about. Additionally, they are not too heavy on the pocket in terms of food but you definitely need to invest in superior grooming care to keep the hair soft and scented.
English Bulldogs
Not so popular as they hold the 8th position in Pakistan. These small- medium sized dogs are muscular, sturdy and robust. They can also be trained quickly and people love keeping them as pet dogs. Moreover, Bulldogs are friendly, alert and great companions.
They are usually 40cm tall and weigh 18- 20 kg.
Pointers
The English Pointers are medium sized dogs which make great companions for gundog enthusiasts as they love hunting. Pointer dogs are very speedy, intelligent and highly trainable.
Pointers are 65cm tall and weigh 25 to 30 kg. Their life span extends to 14 years and can live in almost all sorts of environments.
More Breeds
Breeds including Schnauzer, Akita, Tibet Mastiff, and Husky are slowly becoming popular in Pakistan now. Till then, enjoy these top 8 breeds that are thriving in Pakistan.
