When considering a dog breed in Singapore based on your personality, it’s essential to reflect on your lifestyle and preferences. For instance, if you’re an active person who loves outdoor activities, breeds like Labrador Retrievers or Singapore Specials, known for their adaptability and energy, could be fantastic companions for long walks in Singapore’s parks. Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed lifestyle, breeds like Shih Tzus might be a great fit, as they enjoy indoor activities and thrive on companionship.
Considering Singapore’s climate and living conditions, it’s essential to find a dog breed that matches your personality and the local environment for a happy and fulfilling companionship.
In this blog, we will discuss the different dog breeds you can get to be your faithful companion.
Remember, regardless of breed, buying from a local pet shop or adopting a dog from a shelter in Singapore can bring immense joy and fulfillment, providing you with a loving companion.
Pomeranian
Pomeranians are adorable, fluffy little dogs known for their lively and extroverted personalities. Despite their small size, these spunky pups have big personalities—they’re curious, playful, and highly social.
Pomeranians form strong bonds with their owners and thrive on love and attention, making them excellent pets for individuals seeking devoted and playful companionship.
They are intelligent and can learn tricks easily, making training sessions enjoyable. However, they can also be a bit stubborn at times, so patience during training is key.
Due to their energetic nature, regular exercise like short walks or indoor playtime is crucial to keep them happy and healthy.
With their lively spirits and affectionate demeanor, Pomeranians make delightful companions for those willing to provide them with love, attention, and consistent care.
Care and Grooming Tips
Their double coat requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and mats, including brushing a few times a week.
Dental care is essential as they can be prone to dental issues, so regular teeth brushing and dental check-ups are recommended.
Additionally, proper nutrition and regular vet visits help maintain their overall health.
Common Health Issues
- Collapsed Trachea
- Luxating Patella
- Black Skin Disease (or Severe Hair Loss Disease)
- Cataracts
- Heart Disease
Some of these health issues can be found in Pomskies too.
Pomsky is a dog breed resulting from crossing a Pomeranian with a Siberian Husky, known for their small size, fluffy appearance, and mixed traits from both parent breeds.
Poodle
Poodles are renowned for their intelligence, elegance, and versatility. Their intelligence stands out, making them quick learners and highly trainable, excelling in obedience and agility activities. Their charming personalities often combine playfulness with grace, showcasing an affectionate and loyal nature toward their families.
Poodles come in various sizes—Standard, Miniature, and Toy—suitable for different living spaces and lifestyles.
Poodles thrive in loving homes where their intelligence and affectionate nature can shine, making them excellent companions for families seeking an adaptable, trainable, and loving pet.
Care and Grooming Tips
Their hypoallergenic coats shed minimally and require regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain their signature curly fur.
Regular exercise and mental stimulation are crucial to keep their active minds engaged and prevent boredom. Engaging them in activities like walks, games, or training sessions ensures their physical and mental well-being.
Providing a balanced diet and routine vet check-ups contribute significantly to their health.
Common Health Issues
- Leg and Joint Issues
- Bloat
- Epilepsy
- Thyroid Issues
- Addison’s Disease
Some of these health issues can be found in Poodle mixes too.
Poodle mixes, often referred to as “doodles,” are hybrid dog breeds created by crossing a Poodle with another breed, like Labradors (Labradoodles), Golden Retrievers (Goldendoodles), or Cocker Spaniels (Cockapoos), known for their diverse sizes, hypoallergenic coats, and varying temperaments inherited from both parent breeds.
Corgi
Corgis are beloved for their charming personalities, endearing looks, and playful nature. Known for their intelligence and loyalty, these sturdy dogs possess a big-dog attitude in a small, sturdy body. They also have a penchant for activities and thrive on mental stimulation, enjoying games, walks, and training sessions. Their adaptability and friendly demeanor make them suitable for various living environments.
Notably, corgis were indeed favorites of the late Queen Elizabeth II, owning several Pembroke Welsh Corgis throughout her reign, contributing to the breed’s popularity.
Corgis are affectionate, outgoing, and make excellent family companions, often displaying a protective instinct towards their loved ones. Their delightful personalities, loyalty, and adaptability make Corgis an excellent choice for those seeking an affectionate and energetic companion willing to commit to their care and exercise needs.
Care and Grooming Tips
Regular exercise is crucial to prevent weight gain, considering their tendency to overeat.
Additionally, grooming involves regular brushing to manage shedding and keep their double coat healthy.
Common Health Issues
- Obesity
- Degenerative Myelopathy
- Hip Dysplasia
- Intervertebral Disc Disease
- Von Willebrand’s Disease
Maltese
The Maltese is a charming toy breed known for its elegant white coat and sweet, affectionate nature. These dogs are gentle, playful, and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their families.
Maltese dogs thrive on companionship and enjoy being close to their humans, making them wonderful lap dogs and great for those seeking devoted and loving companions.
They are intelligent and eager to please, making training relatively easy, although consistent positive reinforcement is essential due to their sensitive nature.
Maltese dogs thrive in loving environments, making them ideal for homes seeking a small, affectionate, and loyal furry friend, perfect for apartment living and as wonderful companions for individuals or families.
Care and Grooming Tips
Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their luxurious, long, and silky coats, requiring daily brushing and occasional professional grooming to prevent matting.
Additionally, dental care is essential for their oral health.
Common Health Issues
- Dental Disease (such as periodontal disease)
- Eye Conditions
- Ear Infections
- Asthma
- White Dog Shaker Syndrome
Bichon Frise
You may wonder, didn’t we just read about this dog breed above?
While both the Maltese and Bichon Frise share similar small sizes and affectionate natures, the Maltese typically has a longer, flowing coat, while the Bichon Frise has a curly, cotton-like coat. Additionally, the Maltese tends to be slightly smaller in size compared to the Bichon Frise.
Bichon Frise are affectionate, friendly, and thrive on human companionship, making them fantastic family pets.
Their cheerful demeanor and social nature make them great companions for households seeking an amiable and loving furry friend.
Bichon Frises are intelligent and eager to please, making training sessions enjoyable, though consistency is key due to their occasional stubborn streak.
Bichon Frises’ adaptable and friendly nature makes them wonderful additions to homes seeking a playful, affectionate, and adaptable companion.
Care and Grooming Tips
Regular grooming is essential to maintain their curly, cotton-like coat, requiring frequent brushing and professional grooming to prevent mats.
Additionally, their lively personalities benefit from regular exercise and mental stimulation through interactive play or short walks.
Common Health Issues
- Allergies
- Diabete Mellitus (or Diabetes)
- Cushing’s Disease (or Hyperadrenocorticism)
- Bladder Stones
- Liver Shunt (or Portosystemic Shunt)
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are beloved for their friendly, gentle, and loyal nature, making them one of the most popular family dogs.
Their affectionate demeanor and patience around children make them excellent companions for families seeking a loving and reliable pet.
Known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, Golden Retrievers excel in various roles, from being therapy dogs to working in search and rescue. They are highly trainable and adaptable, making them suitable for various lifestyles.
Golden Retrievers’ friendly and loyal nature makes them wonderful additions to homes seeking a devoted, affectionate, and adaptable furry family member.
Care and Grooming Tips
Regular exercise, such as daily walks or engaging in interactive play, is crucial to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
Their double coat requires regular grooming to minimize shedding and prevent mats, requiring brushing several times a week.
Additionally, providing a balanced diet, routine veterinary care, and ample opportunities for social interaction and mental stimulation contribute significantly to their overall well-being.
Common Health Issues
- Heart Problems (such as Aortic Stenosis and Dilated Cardiomyopathy)
- Skin Conditions
- Cancer
- Panosteitis
- Hypothyroidism
Dachshund
Dachshunds, also known as “wiener dogs” or “sausage dogs,” possess spirited and affectionate personalities. These small dogs exhibit courage, curiosity, and loyalty, making them delightful companions. Their playful nature and intelligence make them entertaining pets, often enjoying interactive games and exploring their surroundings.
Their small size and adaptable nature make them suitable for various living spaces, including apartments.
Dachshunds form strong bonds with their families and can be both affectionate and independent. They are excellent watchdogs due to their alertness and tendency to bark when strangers approach.
Their loving and devoted personalities, coupled with their lively spirit, make Dachshunds excellent companions for individuals seeking an affectionate, playful, and loyal furry friend.
Care and Grooming Tips
Regular exercise, such as walks or playtime, helps maintain their physical health and prevents weight gain, crucial for their long backs.
Routine grooming, including brushing their short or long coats, helps minimize shedding and keep their coats in good condition.
Common Health Issues
- Back Issues
- Obesity
- Heart Issues (such as Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease)
- Cushing’s Disease (or Hyperadrenocorticism)
- Eye Conditions
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are charming little dogs known for their unique appearance and affectionate personalities. With their long, flowing coats and distinctive flat faces, they exude an elegant yet playful demeanor.
These dogs are friendly, loving, and thrive on companionship, making them ideal pets for families or individuals seeking a loyal and loving companion.
Shih Tzus possess a gentle temperament and get along well with children and other pets, showcasing their adaptability. They’re intelligent but may exhibit a touch of independence, making consistent training with positive reinforcement essential.
Shih Tzus’ adorable appearance, combined with their loving and adaptable nature, make them a delightful addition to any household seeking a devoted, affectionate, and charming furry friend.
Care and Grooming Tips
Regular grooming, including daily brushing to prevent tangles and mats in their luxurious coats, is crucial.
Moderate exercise such as short walks or indoor play sessions keeps them content.
Common Health Issues
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Conditions
- Luxating Patella
- Breathing Issues
- Ear Infections
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are spirited and bold dogs known for their tiny size and big personalities. Despite their small stature, they possess a confident and lively demeanor, often displaying courage beyond their size.
These dogs are affectionate, loyal, and form strong bonds with their owners, making them excellent companions for individuals seeking a devoted and loving pet.
Interestingly, the movie “Beverly Hills Chihuahua” features Chihuahuas prominently, showcasing their spirited and endearing characteristics.
Chihuahuas thrive on attention and enjoy being close to their humans, displaying a protective nature towards their families. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them trainable, although they may have a stubborn streak.
Their loving and confident personalities, combined with their petite size, make them a delightful choice for those seeking a loyal, affectionate, and courageous furry companion.
Care and Grooming Tips
Regular exercise through short walks or indoor playtime helps maintain their physical health.
Due to their small size, Chihuahuas may need extra care in colder climates, requiring clothing or blankets to keep them warm.
Common Health Issues
- Luxating Patella
- Dental Disease (such as periodontal disease)
- Intervertebral Disc Disease
- Asthma
- Collapsed Trachea
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs, often called Shelties, are intelligent and affectionate dogs known for their elegance and loyalty. These dogs exhibit a gentle and friendly nature, forming strong bonds with their families and displaying remarkable devotion. Shetland Sheepdogs come in various coat colors, including sable, tricolor, blue merle, and more, showcasing their diverse and striking appearance.
They are sensitive and responsive to their owners’ emotions, often displaying empathy and understanding. They can sense their owner’s moods and provide comfort when needed.
Shelties are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them responsive to training and suitable for various activities like obedience and agility. Their alertness and protective instincts make them excellent watchdogs.
Shetland Sheepdogs’ loving and loyal personalities, combined with their intelligence and diverse coat colors, make them an ideal choice for families or individuals seeking a devoted, intelligent, and elegant companion.
Care and Grooming Tips
Regular grooming, including brushing their double coat to prevent mats and tangles, is essential.
Daily exercise and mental stimulation through activities like games or training sessions are crucial to their well-being.
Common Health Issues
- Hip Dysplasia
- Thyroid Disease
- Dermatomyositis
- Von Willebrand’s Disease
- Epilepsy
Samoyed
Samoyeds are known for their friendly and gentle nature, often referred to as “smiling Sammies” due to their perpetual grin. These dogs possess an affectionate and sociable demeanor, displaying loyalty and love towards their families.
Samoyeds are excellent companions for those seeking a loving and devoted pet.
Surprisingly, Samoyeds are known for their lack of “doggy odor.” Additionally, they shed moderately throughout the year, and their coat tends to “blow out” or shed more heavily twice a year.
Their adaptable and friendly nature, combined with their striking white coat, makes Samoyeds an excellent choice for individuals or families looking for an affectionate, loyal, and beautiful furry companion.
Care and Grooming Tips
Their white, thick double coat serves as protection from harsh weather and gives them their iconic fluffy appearance, but it requires diligent grooming to prevent mats and tangles.
Samoyeds thrive on human interaction and may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
Regular exercise is essential to keep them physically and mentally stimulated, as they are energetic and enjoy activities like walks, hikes, or playtime.
Common Health Issues
- Dental Disease (such as periodontal disease)
- Eye Conditions
- Heart Issues (such as Atrial Septal Defect and Aortic stenosis)
- Hip Dysplasia
- Samoyed Hereditary Glomerulopathy
Mini Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are spirited and affectionate dogs known for their charming appearance and lively personalities. These dogs possess a bold and confident nature while maintaining a friendly and loving disposition towards their families. Mini Schnauzers are highly intelligent, making them quick learners and responsive to training.
Their alertness and watchdog instincts make them excellent protectors and companions, always eager to alert their owners of any perceived threats. They thrive on human interaction and form strong bonds with their families, showcasing loyalty and affection.
Interestingly, Mini Schnauzers are versatile, excelling in various roles such as therapy dogs, obedience, and agility competitions.
Their lively and adaptable personalities, coupled with their affectionate nature and unique appearance, make Miniature Schnauzers ideal companions for individuals or families seeking a devoted, intelligent, and spirited furry friend.
Care and Grooming Tips
Miniature Schnauzers have a distinctive look with their wiry double coat, including their bushy eyebrows and beard. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat, requiring periodic trimming and brushing.
Daily exercise and mental stimulation through activities like walks, games, or training sessions are crucial to keep them content and physically fit.
Common Health Issues
- Bladder or Kidney Stones
- Hip Dysplasia
- Allergies
- Liver Shunts
- Pancreatitis
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are friendly, outgoing, and versatile dogs, known for their gentle and affectionate nature. Their friendly disposition and eagerness to please make them fantastic companions for families.
They possess a loving and patient demeanor, especially with children, making them excellent family pets.
Labs are intelligent, highly trainable, and excel in various roles, including service dogs, therapy dogs, and search and rescue operations. The unique traits and abilities of Labrador Retrievers contribute to their widespread appeal, making them not just wonderful companions but also valued working dogs in various fields.
Their loving nature, trainability, and adaptability make Labrador Retrievers wonderful companions for those seeking a loyal, intelligent, and active furry friend.
Care and Grooming Tips
Regular exercise is crucial for Labs due to their high energy levels, enjoying activities like fetching, swimming, and running.
Their short, dense coat requires minimal grooming but sheds moderately throughout the year, necessitating regular brushing to minimize loose hair.
Labradors have a strong affinity for water, stemming from their history as retrieving dogs for fishermen, showcasing their excellent swimming abilities.
Common Health Issues
- Hip Dysplasia
- Arthritis
- Obesity
- Bloating
- Ear Infections
Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are spirited and energetic dogs known for their lively and tenacious personalities. They possess a bold and intelligent nature, often displaying high energy levels and a keen sense of curiosity. Their intelligence and eagerness to learn make them trainable, although they may exhibit some stubbornness.
Jack Russells are affectionate and devoted companions, forming strong bonds with their families, but they also have an independent streak.
Interestingly, Jack Russells have a strong hunting instinct and excel in activities like agility, flyball, and earthdog trials. They have a natural instinct to dig, which stems from their hunting background of pursuing animals into burrows. Hence, they might exhibit a strong digging behavior in the yard or when playing.
Their spirited and affectionate nature, combined with their intelligence and athleticism, make Jack Russell Terriers suitable companions for active individuals or families seeking a lively, devoted, and adventurous furry friend.
Care and Grooming Tips
Jack Russells thrive on physical and mental stimulation, requiring regular exercise and engaging activities to keep them content and prevent boredom.
Their short, smooth coat requires minimal grooming, but they are moderate shedders.
Common Health Issues
- Skin Conditions
- Eye Conditions
- Cushing’s Disease (or Hyperadrenocorticism)
- Bladder or Kidney Stones
- Leg and Joint Issues
A life’s Adventure Ahead
So, there you have it. You have learnt about the unique facts about various dog breeds, and we hope that this information may serve you well in deciding which furry companion you would like to have.
Whether seeking a cuddly couch companion or an active outdoor explorer, there’s a breed waiting to steal hearts and share life’s adventures.
Now that you have learnt the various dog breeds, don’t miss out on grooming products for your beloved furry companion on ZumVet. If you happen to have any questions about your dog’s health, be sure to enquire more information from our vets at Zumvet through Teleconsults or at the Clinic. We offer Specialty Consults on Behaviour and Nutrition and canine DNA tests (for breed identification and disease screen).
