Top 14 Most Popular Companion Dog Breeds in Vietnam

Chow Chow, also known as the 'Tang dog' or the 'Dog of the Tang Dynasty', is a breed native to China. Originally, Chow Chows were used for hunting, cart pulling, and guarding, but today, their adorable appearance has led to them being domesticated as household pets. They are recognized for their thick fur, with the most common colors being red, black, and golden brown. Historically, Chow Chows were considered lower-class dogs until the 1800s when the British brought them to their country, and after selective breeding, the modern Chow Chow was created. Soon after, the breed became a symbol of wealth and prestige.

Chow Chows are incredibly lovable and sought after by many pet owners. Their appearance is often likened to that of a bear from Tibet, with a round, stocky body, short legs, and a large head that gives them a somewhat clumsy look. With a body length and height that are almost equal, they appear quite square. An adult Chow Chow can weigh over 30kg and reach a height of 55cm. The difference between males and females is minimal. Known for their affectionate nature, Chow Chows love attention and care from their owners. If they trust you, they are obedient and well-behaved, but they can be quite stubborn if ignored. As a breed originally used for guarding, Chow Chows are very protective and can be wary of strangers, becoming fiercely defensive if they perceive someone as a threat to their family. Despite their sometimes gruff demeanor, they are a curious breed that enjoys exploring new things. However, they can be difficult to train. One of their most distinct features is their blue-black tongue, and they often have small ears hidden beneath their thick fur. Today, the cream-colored Chow Chow is the most popular among buyers in Vietnam. Their tails typically curl over their backs and are quite short. Due to their thick coats, regular grooming and trimming are essential. In Vietnam, a Chow Chow typically costs between 10 to 15 million VND.

Chihuahua is often referred to as the "pocket dog" due to its tiny size. It is one of the most popular companion dog breeds in Vietnam, originally from the state of Chihuahua, Mexico. The price for a purebred Chihuahua in Vietnam typically ranges from 2 to 4 million VND, with Thai imports costing between 5 to 10 million VND. In some cases, a Chihuahua imported from Europe or America can exceed 20 million VND. Despite its somewhat "spoiled" nature, many people choose to keep the Chihuahua as a beloved pet due to its adorable looks.

The Chihuahua has a compact, endearing appearance, typically weighing only 1 to 3 kg, and can easily fit in the hands of an adult. Those smaller than this weight are rare and quite expensive. The breed has a sturdy body, with a length that is greater than its height, measuring between 13 to 23 cm. Its head is small, with erect ears and large, round eyes. Chihuahuas come in a variety of coat colors, and their fur can be both short and long. Though small, Chihuahuas are packed with surprises. They are intelligent, a bit "sassy," love being pampered, and are incredibly loyal to their owners. Additionally, they possess remarkable courage and quick reflexes. While they are primarily a companion dog, they are also excellent watchdogs and very alert to strangers. Due to their picky eating habits, breeders have mixed the purebred Chihuahua with other breeds to create a more affordable and easier-to-care-for version of the breed in Vietnam.

Chihuahua dogs are highly intelligent and very affectionate, often sticking closely to their owners. They have a keen sense of hearing and are extremely wary of strangers. They learn quickly and have a strong sense of alertness, but can become irritable if scolded often. Some individuals can be challenging to train, so it may be advisable to adopt a puppy rather than an adult Chihuahua. Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are feisty and won’t back down from a fight. They make excellent guard dogs, offering reliable protection for their homes.

Contrary to their somewhat "gruff" appearance, the French Bulldog is a friendly, affectionate, and playful breed. Known as a luxury dog among European aristocrats in the 19th century, they became popular as pets in wealthy families. French Bulldogs have a compact build and an irresistibly cute wrinkled face. They are very human-friendly and get along well with other dogs. As they move, their solid muscles are clearly visible, with short, thick legs that only add to their adorable looks. French Bulldogs are famously playful and enjoy making people laugh. They are active, enjoy playing, and bring joy to everyone around them.

In Vietnam, French Bulldogs have been bred for quite some time, although they are still not very common due to the less suitable environment. They are loved for their charming appearance and lively, yet not overly curious, nature. If you meet a French Bulldog for the first time, their looks may seem intimidating, but they are actually very approachable and friendly. These dogs prefer staying indoors and love being close to their owners for cuddles and head rubs. They also excel at expressing their moods.

Although they look sturdy and compact, French Bulldogs are actually quite small, standing about 30 cm tall and weighing between 9 to 14 kg. They have large, upright ears, a flat face, a rounded forehead, and a short, turned-up nose. Their soft fur and smooth skin make them a pleasure to pet. The average lifespan of a French Bulldog is between 10 and 12 years, and they are prone to respiratory issues. They are among the easiest dogs to care for, as they are not picky eaters. You can feed them a variety of foods, and they’re happy to eat several times a day. A healthy, purebred French Bulldog in Vietnam typically costs between 10 and 20 million VND.

Along with the Husky, the Alaskan Malamute is a popular snow dog breed in Vietnam. With its thick, shiny coat and wolf-like appearance, it has captured the attention of many dog lovers, some willing to spend tens of millions of VND to bring one home. Despite their fierce appearance, Alaskan Malamutes are gentle, intelligent, obedient, and friendly towards other animals, especially enjoying playtime with children. In Vietnam, an Alaskan Malamute typically costs between 15 to 25 million VND.

This breed comes in a variety of coat colors, including gray and white, sable and white, black and white, or even all white. Regardless of the coat color, their muzzle and legs are always white. They are active and enjoy running around. Due to their thick coat, they shed hair frequently.

The Alaskan Malamute is an ancient sled dog breed and remains a favorite in Vietnam. They are known for their strong, sturdy build, standing at 55 to 70 cm tall and weighing between 35 and 50 kg. Their almond-shaped eyes and diverse coat colors, which include shades like white, gray, sable, or even black and white, are what make them stand out. A typical Alaskan Malamute costs between 8,000,000 and 13,000,000 VND, with imported dogs being much more expensive.

The Phu Quoc Dog is highly intelligent, responsive, and loyal. It is easy to train, and once trained, it proves to be incredibly useful. The purebred Phu Quoc Dog has a slim, muscular body, weighing between 12-18 kg, with a straight back, a small and elongated muzzle, slender, strong legs, and a tail that curls over its back like a fishing rod. Its coat is short, and comes in various colors, with the most common being yellow, reddish-brown, and black. Rare colors include brindle (which is highly coveted), chocolate brown, and the least common gray. However, there is still no official standard for the purebred Phu Quoc Dog today.

The Phu Quoc Dog is a Vietnamese breed that is becoming increasingly popular. Known for its intelligence, agility, and sharp instincts, it is highly trainable and plays a vital role in daily life. While it has several distinct features, it remains difficult to determine which are purebred. The easiest trait to identify is the swirl of fur along its spine or around its neck. The Phu Quoc Dog has a short coat that is commonly seen in yellow, black, reddish-brown, chocolate, and the rarer brindle and gray colors, which are highly sought after. This breed is known for being friendly and affectionate with everyone, whether familiar faces or strangers, which can be both an advantage and a disadvantage, making it less ideal for guarding homes. According to genetic studies worldwide, the Phu Quoc Dog

Historically, the Phu Quoc Dog was bred for guarding homes and hunting with its owner. With its fierce nature and incredible endurance, it could stealthily hunt and return with its prey without needing assistance or commands from its owner. Known as one of the “Four Great National Dogs,” the Phu Quoc Dog is an extremely rare and highly valuable breed in Vietnam. Famous for its intelligence, bravery, and natural beauty, the Phu Quoc Dog is now often kept as a pet, with prices ranging from tens to hundreds of millions of VND.

The Pug Dog, known for its wrinkled face, has a long history, although its exact origin remains uncertain. The most likely theory is that the Pug first appeared during the Han Dynasty in China around 200 BC. Back then, Pugs were considered royal pets, living luxuriously in the care of Chinese aristocracy. This small breed, affectionately known as the “wrinkled-face dog,” is friendly, approachable, and loves human companionship. While their facial features may appear stern, Pugs are actually very gentle and sociable. They get along well with both people and other pets, though their guarding instincts are not strong.

Additionally, the Pug Dog is highly intelligent, quick-witted, and loyal. These traits become apparent during training, as Pugs pick up commands quickly, are eager to learn, and enjoy performing tasks. Young people are particularly fond of this breed because of their immense cuteness. The Pug’s body is compact, standing about 30 to 35 cm tall and weighing under 10 kg. Their short coats come in various colors, including black, fawn, and apricot, with dark markings around the eyes, nose, and muzzle. Their heads are large and round, with big eyes, and their skin is loose, forming characteristic wrinkles around their face.

Although small in stature, Pug Dogs are solid and sturdy. Their short legs and stout bodies give them the nickname “square body,” as their height is roughly the same as the length from their neck to their tail. Pugs have a broad chest and a sturdy bone structure, particularly around the shoulders. Their shape generally resembles that of a pear. As a breed with a noble history, Pugs seem to enjoy the good life—eating, playing, and napping. They are fond of being pampered and, being prone to laziness and overeating, can easily become overweight. Regular exercise is important for keeping them healthy. The Pug Dog is one of the most popular breeds in Vietnam, loved for its adorable appearance and friendly personality.

The Pug Dog has an ultra-short, smooth coat that fits snugly to its body. They shed year-round, but require minimal grooming. Only two coat colors are officially recognized: black and fawn. Other color variations are not accepted, which is a key factor in distinguishing purebred Pugs from mixed breeds. A regular Pug Dog typically costs between 4,000,000 and 6,000,000 VND.

The Samoyed Dog, also known as the Siberian snow dog, originates from the northwest Siberian region of Russia, where it was bred by the Samoyede people. Originally, these dogs were used for hunting, pulling sleds, and herding reindeer. Over thousands of years, the Samoyed has proven itself to be a reliable companion. These dogs are capable of enduring long-distance sled-pulling, tracking through heavy snow, and guarding their owners at night in the harsh Siberian cold. As a working breed, Samoyeds possess exceptional stamina and unwavering loyalty, and they are known for being extremely friendly and affectionate with their family members.

With their striking white coat, Samoyeds have a regal appearance (though today, some are bred with different coat colors, but white remains the most popular). Samoyeds are strong, agile dogs, typically standing between 45-60 cm tall and weighing between 16-30 kg. Their ears are triangular and always stand upright, while their tail curls over their back. They have almond-shaped, dark eyes. Samoyeds are known for their quick wit, intelligence, and deep loyalty to their owners. Their beauty and charm make them one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide, and their friendly demeanor makes them excellent family pets. Additionally, their intelligence, playfulness, and loyalty are qualities that have made them a favorite breed in Vietnam.

Samoyeds are highly intelligent, affectionate, and devoted. They tend to form a particularly strong bond with one person but are friendly with everyone. This trait, however, makes them unsuitable as guard dogs. Samoyeds are playful and mischievous, and they require plenty of exercise. If they do not get enough activity, they may become destructive, digging, chewing shoes, or rummaging through trash. Their strong hunting instinct also makes it difficult for them to get along with smaller pets. Samoyeds are priced between 6-9 million VND, with imported dogs costing more.

The Pomeranian Dog originates from the Pomeranian region of Central Europe, now part of northern Poland and northeastern Germany. It shares a close ancestry with other northern breeds like the Alaskan Malamute, Samoyed, and Husky, all of which are known for their thick, fluffy coats. Originally used by Germans as herding dogs, the Pomeranian breed has been present in Vietnam for centuries, brought over by the French colonizers as pets.

Pomeranians are playful, clever, and affectionate dogs that are easy to train and form strong bonds with their owners. They are renowned worldwide for their small size and adorable appearance, with particularly large, round eyes that enhance their charm. Despite their intelligence and playful nature, Pomeranians are incredibly sweet, obedient, and loving towards people.

On average, Pomeranians stand around 25-30 cm tall and weigh between 1-3 kg. Their coat comes in a variety of colors such as brown, yellow, and cream, with white being the most common. These dogs have a small, pointy snout, are picky eaters, and tend to shed frequently. Their faces resemble foxes, which is why they are often called Fox Dogs. Pomeranians have almond-shaped eyes, typically dark brown or black, and their noses and the rim of their snout are dark as well. Their small, triangular ears stand upright. Pomeranians are incredibly attached to their owners, loving cuddles and affection, and get along well with other pets in the family.

However, it’s important not to spoil them excessively. Training must be firm, or they might become disobedient and defiant. Purebred Pomeranians are priced between 6-8 million VND, with imported or Vietnamese-bred Poms with papers costing more, ranging from 9-12 million VND.

The Pitbull has gained popularity as a beloved companion animal, although it was once feared for its aggressive nature. With proper breeding and training, these dogs have transformed into loyal and devoted pets. Typically standing between 45 to 55 cm tall and weighing 20 to 40 kg, the Pitbull has a muscular, sturdy build and a powerful jaw, which, along with their tough appearance, can give them a fierce reputation. Originating in the late 18th century in England, Ireland, and Scotland, they were later brought to America to work as farm guard dogs and hunting companions. The American breeders, recognizing the strength of the breed, selectively bred them with local dogs to create a larger, more robust version of the Pitbull.

Today, Pitbulls are known for their friendly, energetic, and affectionate demeanor. Although their history as fighting dogs lingers, these dogs are now generally well-tempered and social. Despite their intimidating past, Pitbulls have become cherished family pets thanks to their loyalty and vibrant personalities. They are intelligent, brave, and eager to please their owners, which makes them relatively easy to train. However, their intelligence can also lead to stubbornness, and initial training may be a challenge, as they sometimes resist commands.

Pitbulls have short, tough coats that tightly hug their muscular bodies, showcasing their strong physique. Their fur can come in various colors, including solid shades or combinations such as black, brown, grey, red, and even a mixture of black and white. One of the most desirable traits in a Pitbull is its striking color patterns, often enhancing their overall beauty. These dogs are known for their high intelligence, making them quick learners, though they require firm and consistent training from a young age to establish respect and loyalty. Their loyalty to their families is unmatched; they will go to great lengths to protect their loved ones. This protective instinct is one of the standout features of the breed.

Highly trainable, Pitbulls can learn everything from basic commands to advanced tricks. They are exceptional guard dogs and protectors. The price for a Pitbull typically ranges from 6 to 9 million VND, while imported Pitbulls with pedigree papers can cost significantly more, sometimes reaching tens of millions of VND.

The Shiba Inu is a breed known for its intelligence and loyalty, hailing from Japan. It's a beloved dog in both its native land and in Vietnam. The average lifespan of a Shiba ranges from 12 to 15 years, and with proper care and regular exercise, it can live even longer. Despite their small and adorable appearance, Shibas possess incredibly quick reflexes. Historically, they were used for hunting in the forests with their owners. The coat of the Shiba Inu typically comes in colors like white and yellow, reddish-brown, or a mix of red and black on their back.

Although Shiba Inus love swimming and playing in water, they are surprisingly clean animals. This endearing trait adds to their charm. As the smallest of Japan's six original and distinct dog breeds, Shiba dogs are agile and originally lived in the mountains. They are one of the oldest dog breeds still in existence, dating back to the 3rd century BC. Shibas are known for their independent nature and can be aggressive towards other animals, making them less ideal for households with multiple dogs or young children. Though they may appear a bit aloof, Shiba Inus are deeply loyal to their owners and show immense affection.

Shibas are highly respectful towards their owners and are very particular about cleanliness, constantly striving to keep themselves tidy. These dogs are also intelligent and quick learners, often teaching themselves through trial and error during play or hunting experiences. A distinct feature of the Shiba Inu is its fur, with cream-colored markings (known as Urajiro) found on the sides of their muzzle, cheeks, inner ears, under their jaw, throat, inside the legs, belly, around the tail, and under the tail. Prices for a purebred Shiba Inu typically range from 18 to 30 million VND, with higher prices for those with pedigree papers.

The Corgi, also known as the Welsh Corgi, originates from Wales, UK. This adorable breed has gained immense popularity and ranks among the most commonly owned dogs in both Vietnam and around the world. The breed is divided into two main varieties: Pembroke Corgi: Typically weighing between 9-13kg and standing around 25-30cm tall, and Cardigan Corgi: Weighing between 12-15kg and reaching a height of about 30-35cm.

The coat colors of both types of Corgis are quite similar, with white fur on their muzzle, chest, and paws. Corgis have short legs and triangular, upright ears. Their face is proportionate, with a long and pointed muzzle, large round eyes, and a small but sharp jaw. Their overall appearance is often likened to that of a fox, which is why they are sometimes referred to as 'Foxy Dogs'. Their thick, double-layered coat resembles those of northern breeds such as Samoyeds, Alaskan Malamutes, and Huskies. Corgis are food-loving, which makes them prone to obesity if not properly exercised and fed a balanced diet. Historically, they were used for herding and hunting, with a powerful bark that could intimidate livestock.

Corgis are incredibly intelligent, ranking 11th in the world among the smartest dog breeds. Their intelligence makes them quick learners, typically picking up commands after only 4-5 repetitions. They are also very loyal, usually forming a strong bond with one particular person and showing protective behavior when their owner is threatened. Corgis are friendly and affectionate, especially towards children, making them a favorite among families. However, their energetic nature means they rarely stay still, and they might not be suitable for homes with very young children. In Vietnam, Corgis gained popularity around 2010, quickly becoming a sensation among dog enthusiasts. Despite their high price, ranging from 8 to 25 million VND, they remain in high demand.

The Golden Retriever, originating from England, is a medium-sized dog known for its excellent scent detection and tracking skills. This active and playful breed is known for its intelligence and loyalty, making it a beloved companion. With its attractive appearance, friendly nature, and remarkable abilities, the Golden Retriever quickly captures the hearts of pet lovers.

The Golden Retriever has a well-balanced, strong physique. Its signature features include large, floppy ears that rest close to the face and a thick, soft golden coat. Its innocent and charming expression makes it impossible to resist. These dogs are friendly, loyal, and always eager to please. They are easy to train, gentle with children, and their loving nature has made them perfect guide dogs for the visually impaired and helpers for people with disabilities.

Highly energetic and enthusiastic, Golden Retrievers enjoy outdoor activities, especially running and playing. Their intelligence allows them to excel in various dog sports and competitions. Always quick to adapt, these dogs adjust their behavior to fit different environments. The Golden Retriever has a thick double coat: the outer layer is long and dense, providing excellent water resistance, while the softer inner layer helps retain body heat. Their coats typically come in two shades: golden and light golden. The cost of a Golden Retriever is around 5-6 million VND.

The Husky is a stunning breed, often mistaken for the Alaskan Malamute, but with a more reserved demeanor. Despite their fierce look, they are extremely friendly and have gained popularity in Vietnam due to their affection for humans. Huskies resemble wolves with their powerful build, athleticism, and striking appearance. They stand between 50-60 cm tall, weigh between 16-27 kg, and possess wild, almond-shaped eyes, which come in various colors, including blue, brown, amber, and even a combination of these. Their long, thick fur features various color patterns, commonly black and white, gray and white, and pure white.

Although they are a larger breed, Huskies are known for their playful and friendly nature. Their almond-shaped eyes give them a wild, slightly aloof expression. Huskies’ coats come in different colors, with popular combinations being black and white, red and white, gray and white, or sable and white. The dogs also have strikingly diverse eye colors, including brown, blue, green, and amber. Their thick fur, like that of their cousin the Alaskan Malamute, is well-suited to cold climates. Huskies are energetic, cheerful, and obedient, though sometimes a little stubborn with their owners. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are sweet-natured and get along well with humans. Their price can be quite high, ranging from several million VND for one dog.

The Poodle is a popular water dog, originally bred for duck hunting in Germany and France. Known for their fluffy coat and friendly, smiling face, Poodles have become one of the most beloved dog breeds in Vietnam. They are small, with a round head, long, drooping ears, smooth, slightly curly fur, and a straight, often cropped tail. Their gentle and affectionate nature has made them a favorite among many dog lovers. Poodles come in a variety of colors, including black, white, gray, gold, brown, and even coffee shades. They're known for being cheerful, intelligent, and easy to train, though they do require regular grooming to maintain their distinctive coat.

Poodles come in three main sizes: Toy (extra small), Miniature (small), and Standard (large). The Toy and Miniature varieties are more common in Vietnam, while the Standard Poodle is more popular globally due to its larger size. The Toy Poodle typically reaches a height of about 25 cm and weighs between 2-5 kg. This size is favored in Vietnam for being compact and ideal as a pet. The Miniature Poodle reaches up to 40 cm in height and weighs 7-9 kg. The Standard Poodle is the largest variety, standing between 40-50 cm tall and weighing 20-30 kg.

There are also very small variants, such as the Tiny and Teacup Poodle, which stand under 22 cm and weigh less than 3 kg, though these are quite rare and expensive. What makes the Poodle especially popular in Vietnam is its intelligence, which ranks second worldwide, only behind the Border Collie. The Toy Poodle, being small, intelligent, and adorable, is especially beloved as a pet. When well cared for, these pups are friendly, social, cheerful, and extremely easy to train. The cost of a Toy Poodle ranges from 5 to 8 million VND.