By Rach Marie Garcia

Pinoys’ favorite pet is the dog, and the Philippines today has a variety of dog breeds. Because of the tropical climate, some dog breeds are popular among Pinoys. Owning a dog requires devoting time and effort to your pet. Explore the ideal breed for your budget, lifestyle, and personality.

Here are a few breeds to consider, particularly if you’re a first-time pet parent.

Shih-Tzu

This breed is notable for its tiny nose, huge round eyes, ever-growing coat, floppy ears, and sturdy posture, as well as its ever-growing coat, floppy ears, and strong posture. Shih-Tzus are friendly, joyful, and gregarious house dogs that like following their owners from room to room. They are hypoallergenic and have a lifespan of 10-16 years, and come in a variety of hues, including Black, White, Liver, Brindle, Liver & White, Light Brown, Black & White, Dark Brown, Blue, and Gold.

Labrador Retrievers

With over a hundred thousand registered dogs worldwide, the Labrador is one of the most popular dog breeds. It is one of the favorites of dog owners around the world, and it is popular in Filipino households because of its obedience, devotion, and lively demeanor. The lab is a pleasant pet and an excellent choice. It is also a gregarious, high-spirited companion who will be devoted to the family. With a short, thick, weather-resistant double coat in hues of black, chocolate, or yellow, it may live for 12-14 years.

Pomeranian 

Because of its tiny size, the Pomeranian (also known as a Pom) is considered a toy dog breed. However, the Pomeranian is from larger Spitz-type dogs, notably the German Spitz. They are intelligent, inquisitive, active, feisty, and fearless, and they like being the center of attention. Except for homes with young children, they may make excellent pets. It is a hypoallergenic dog with a 12- to 16-year lifespan. White, black, blue, red, grey-shaded, cream, tan, orange, and brown are the color options.

Chihuahuas 

It is one of the tiniest dog breeds, named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua. Because they are devoted to their owners, Chihuahuas are great companion dogs and enjoy the extra attention. However, due to their diminutive stature, these canines have a reputation for snapping at outsiders who pose a danger to them. It comes in different colors and patterns, and it may be long or short, with upright ears and bright, expressive eyes. With a lifespan of 12–20 years, this is not a hypoallergenic dog.

Chow Chow 

Chow Chows are muscular, compactly built canines that can stand up to 20 inches tall at the shoulder. They are one of the world’s oldest dog breeds. A lion’s mane ruff is one of its distinguishing features. The breed has a thick double coat that may be smooth or rough. Chows are a breed that is both clever and clean, making housebreaking a breeze. The good news is that it adapts well to apartment life; if you like cuddling, this may not be the breed for you; they are very loyal and may provide excellent protection for the house. The life expectancy of 9–15 years, it is not a hypoallergenic dog. Black, blue, fawn, cream, and red are well-known hues.