32 Asian Dog Breeds (With Pictures)

Asia is a land of extraordinary and famous dogs. If you want to pet an Asian dog and are confused about choosing the best one, then you have landed on the right page.

In this article, you will understand the most popular 32 Asian dog breeds. We have compiled a list of the best dogs from different corners of Asia.

What Are Asian Dog Breeds?

Undoubtedly, Asia represents approx half of the population in the world. You can say that dogs are the most preferred pet in Asia. There are hundreds of different dog breeds in Asia. Asian dogs are the most popular pet globally, and many breeds are equally loved in western countries.

For many decades, many dog breeds have developed in Asia. A few dog breeds are even best known for aiding humans in many activities and tasks. Many dog breeds have become famous worldwide; however, some haven’t been heard outside their nation.

So, we have enlisted the top 32 Asian dog breeds popular worldwide or less known over the globe. You must be curious about these dog breeds; here is the list of the top dog breeds from different Asian Countries.

TOP 10 Asian Dog Breeds That You Can Keep As Pets

You must be delighted to choose your furry friend from Asian dog breeds. The best part is they are human-friendly, loyal, and a great companion. Now, let’s hop on to the top 10 dog breeds that you can keep as a pet.

Chow Chow

Asian dog: CHow chow
Asian dog: CHow chow

Origin

According to genetic testing, Chow Chow is the oldest dog breed. They have originated in Northern China and Mongolia and then moved to the south with the nomadic tribes of Mongolia.

Adult Size

The Chow Chow dog is generally 17 inches to 20 inches from the shoulder. Their weight is approx 40 pounds to 70 pounds.

Nature

The nature of Chow Chow is friendly to children and their owners. They are generally independent, intelligent, stubborn, reserved, and dignified.

Care level and price

They can adapt to every home, either apartments or palaces. We advise you to keep them indoors as they can’t tolerate heat (due to their thick fur). You need to take them for a walk for only 15 minutes.

The average cost of the puppy ranges from $800 to $1200. And if a puppy comes from a bloodline, then the cost can be up to $3000.

Pug

Asian dog: pug
Asian dog: pug

Origin

The pug dog breed originated in China, in B.C. 206 to A.D. 200 to the Han dynasty. Pugs lived in luxurious accommodations and were prized by the Emperors of China.

Adult Size

Pugs are generally 10 inches to 14 inches in height from the shoulder. A male pug weighs 18 pounds, and a female weighs 18 pounds.

Nature

Pugs are the best low-maintenance dog breed. Pugs are very friendly to humans and love kids. But if you are buying a pug, you should watch the interaction between your pet and children. Also, pugs are sensitive to humidity and heat.

Care level and price

Pugs are light sleepers; so, you can spend in a pair of earplugs.

A baby Pug can cost from $600 to $900. And a few puppy pugs can cost $3000.

Akita 

Asian dog: Akita
Asian dog: Akita

Origin

The Akita dog breed originated in the province of Akita in northern Japan. The presence of Akita has existed since the 1600s.

Adult Size

The height of a male dog is 26 inches to 28 inches, and a female is 24 inches to 26 inches. The weight of a male dog is 85 to 130 pounds, and a female weighs 70 to 110 pounds.

Nature

The Akita dog breed is suitable for older children and owners. But sometimes they can be aggressive if not trained.

Care level and price

The Akita dog is happiest and friendly with a family. They are not hyper, and they need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. You need to feed high-quality food to the Akita dog breed.

The cost of the puppy is $600 to $1980. And the average price of a dog is $25,920.

Hokkaido 

Asian dog: Hokkaido
Asian dog: Hokkaido

Origin

British zoologist Thomas Blankiston, gave the Hokkaido breed its name in Japan (1869). It’s a Spitz type of dog that originated from the main island of Hokkaido. It is the most popular dog breed in Japan.

Adult Size

The Hokkaido dog’s height is 18 to 22 inches, and they weigh between 45 and 65 pounds.

Nature

The Hokkaido dog breed is devoted to their families or owners. They are intelligent and playful.

Care level and price

Hokkaido needs veterinary checkups for detecting any health issues. You must brush their hair twice a week.

The general cost of the Hokkaido dog breed is approx $1000.

Korean Mastiff

Asian dog: Korean Mastiff
Asian dog: Korean Mastiff

Origin

European and Asian records dating back 3,000 years show dogs of the mastiff type. Mastiffs are historically known as guard dogs that protect property and homes. The country of their origin is South Korea.

Adult Size

The height of Mastiffs males is 25.5 to 30 inches and females are 23.5 to 27 inches. The male weighs 160 to 185 pounds and the female weighs 145 to 165 pounds.

Nature

Usually, Korean Mastiffs adapt to every environment; and seem to be a lazy dog breed. They are playful with children and families.

Care level and price

Korean Mastiff is a less to moderate shedder. You need to brush their hair weekly and bathe them monthly.

The price of Korean Mastiff starts from $16,404.

Korean Jindo

Origin

Korean Jindo has existed in Korea for at least 1,500 years. Also, in 1962, Jindo was designated as the 53rd National Treasure.

Adult Size

Korean Jindo’s height for males is 19.5 inches to 21 inches and for females, it’s 18.5 inches to 20 inches. Their weight is 35 pounds to 60 pounds.

Nature

Jindo is a notorious and very intelligent dog. You have to train them with patience.

Care level and price

You must keep Jindos inside your house. At a young age, they can feel lonely and get bored because of being alone at home.

The average price of a Jindo puppy is $800 to $1000.

Rajapalayam

Origin

The Rajapalayam (the Polygar Hound or Indian Ghost Hound) is a southern Indian dog breed. Rajapalayam is a town in the Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu.

Size

The average height of Rajapalayam is 25 inches to 30 inches. Their weight is 66 lbs to 77 lbs.

Dog’s nature

The Rajapalayam dogs are loyal to their owners. They are friendly with older children and make bonding easy. They are a good companion and not fond of being touched. Generally, they are aggressive towards strangers.

Care level & price

The Rajapalayam is an easy-to-maintain dog breed. They don’t need frequent bathing. You must brush their hair three times a week.

The average price of the puppy is Average $300 to $500.

Mudhol Hound

Origin

The Mudhol Hound, also known as the Pashmi Hound, the Kathewar Dog, the Caravan Hound, and the Maratha Hound, is a breed of sighthound from India. Indian National Kennel Club (INKC) and the Kennel Club of India (KCI) recognize the breed under different breed names. 

Size

The height of the Mudhol Hound is 26 inches to 28 inches. They weigh 48.5 pounds to 62 pounds.

Dog’s nature

Mudhol Hounds are great companions and known to be friendly with adults. They are not very friendly with younger children, but you can teach or train them to behave.

Care level & price

They need regular walking or exercise to stay fit. Mudhol Hound is a healthy dog breed and adapts to every environment. 

The price of Mudhol Hound starts from $15,024

Japanese Chin

Origin

The Japanese Chin dog breed is ancient and originated in China. They were prized members of the Chinese imperial court. It was probably a gift to the emperor of Japan that he made his way to that island nation that gave him his name.

Size

The Japanese Chin’s height is 8 inches to 11 inches. Their weight is 4 pounds to 9 pounds.

Dog’s nature

Japanese Chin needs less exercise. It would be best if you take them for a daily walk. Training can be difficult for them because they are a little lazy.

Care level and price

Japanese Chin is a great companion and should live indoors. They can’t live without their owner.

The price of a puppy is $900 to $1500.

Sapsali

Origin 

The Sapsali is a medium-sized dog native to Korea. This breed of dog is also known as a ‘ghost hunter.’

Size

The Sapsali’s height is 19.6 inches to 23.6 inches and they weigh between 39.6 pounds to 60 pounds.

Dog’s nature

The Sapsali breed is a good companion and friend to the owner. They are loyal and aggressive to strangers.

Care level and price

They need a minimum amount of exercise and walking. You can keep the dog in apartments.

You can buy a puppy for an average $650.

Top 5 Japanese Dog Breeds

The Japanese dogs are known for their intelligence and unique features. They originated in Japan and served locals for years. We have compiled a list of the top 5 Japanese dog breeds.

Kai Ken

Origin

The Kai Ken is recognized as a tiger dog. It is the original Japanese dog breed. It is a rare dog even in its native land and is one of the six native Japanese dog breeds protected by the Nihon Ken Hozonkai.

Size

The height of Kai Ken is 13 inches to 17 inches. They weigh approx 10 pounds to 20 pounds. 

Dog’s nature

The Kai Ken is a brave, agile, intelligent, and alert dog. They are great as watchdogs and natural hunters. They are not friendly with strangers but behave well with the family. Many Kai Ken dogs love to swim.

Care level & price

The Kai Ken doesn’t need much care. You can brush their hair only occasionally. Also, they don’t need a weekly bath.

The prices generally vary, but the puppy price is $1500 only.

Kishu Ken

Origin

The date of the Kishu Ken breed’s origin isn’t exact, but researchers believe that the Kishu Ken breed is at least 3,000 years old. The breed got its start in Kyushu, or modern-day prefectures of Mie and Wakayama.

Size

Their size is 17 inches to 22 inches, and their weight is approximately 31 pounds to 59 pounds.

Dog’s nature

The Kishu Ken is popularly known as a hunting dog and is still rare in Japan. These dogs are brave, independent, and intelligent. Also, Kishu Ken is an impulsive dog, so keep them away from children.

Care level and price

Kishu Ken loves to stay outdoors. They are intelligent, keep an eye on the dog, and can escape anytime.

The price of a Kishu Ken puppy is $1800 to $2200.

Shiba 

Origin

Shiba is a popular Japanese breed of dog and is also known as a Japanese national treasure. It is the smallest of the spitz breed of dogs in Japan.

Size

The size of the dog is 13 inches to 17 inches. Their weight is 16 pounds to 22 pounds. 

Dog’s nature

It’s an adaptive dog. They can live indoors or in an apartment. Shiba is a territorial, proud, and independent dog.

Care level and price

You should comb their hair once a week and teach them how to socialize.

Shiba Inus puppy’s price is $1400 to $3500.

Shikoku Ken

Origin

The Shikoku or Kōchi-ken is a Japanese breed of dog from Shikoku island. It is one of the six native Japanese breeds.

Size

The height of Shikoku Ken is 18.1 inches to 21.6 inches. Shikoku dog’s weight is nearly 30 pounds to 55 pounds. They are considered medium-sized dogs.

Dog’s nature

Shikoku Ken is brave and alert every time. They are sensitive without being nervous. Shikoku dogs are sufficiently athletic and tough in the run over mountainous terrain. The dog’s overall action is quick, and it leads with flexible steps.

Care level and price

Give an appropriate diet according to the dog’s age. Keep an eye on the calories you are giving to dogs. Train them well for being playful and happy.

The average price of Shikoku Ken is $3000 to $4000.

Japanese Spitz

Origin

The Japanese Spitz is a small to medium breed of dog of the Spitz type. There are differing standards around the world as to the ideal size of the breed, but they are always bigger than their smaller cousins, the Pomeranian. They were developed in Japan in the 1920s and 1930s by breeding several other Spitz-type dog breeds together.

Size

Japanese Spitz is 12 inches to 15 inches in height. Their weight varies between 10 pounds to 25 pounds.

Dog’s nature

It is a cute breed of dog and playful with everyone. These dogs are fluffy to touch. And it is a low-maintenance dog. Japanese Spitz is loyal, active, and intelligent and best known for their affection, courage, amiability, and devotion. You can expect them as an exceptional watchdog and a companion.

Care level and price

The Japanese Spitz requires a well-balanced diet. If you feed them twice daily, it will be enough. They need love and care because they are sensitive by nature.

The average price of a puppy is $1000 to $2500.

Top 5 Chinese Dog Breeds

According to Chinese culture, dogs are the symbols of wealth and prosperity. Chinese dogs are different in appearance from other breeds in the world. Check out the top 5 Chinese dogs breed in the world.

Pekingese

Origin

The Pekingese is an ancient breed, with DNA evidence verifying it as one the oldest of dog breeds. The Peke is said to have existed in China for as long as 2,000 years. It is named after the capital city of Peking (now Beijing).

Size

The Pekingese is 6 inches to 9 inches long. Their weight is 7 pounds to 14 pounds.

Dog’s nature

Pekingese dogs are adaptive to indoor and apartments. These dogs love to run and romp; you should keep an eye on them. They love to exercise or walk. They are human-friendly and playful dogs.

Care level and price

Pekingese dogs can’t stay outdoors. They have short noses sensitive to heat, so it’s better to give them an air-conditioned environment.

You can get a top breed Pekingese dog at $2400 to $6000. The average price of a puppy is $700.

Chinese Crested

Origin

Chinese Crested dogs are not basically from China. They evolved from Mexican or African hairless dogs that were reduced in size by the Chinese.

The Crested is said to have accompanied Chinese sailors on the high seas as early as 1530, killing vermin during and between times of plague. By the middle of the 19th century, Cresteds started to appear in many European prints and paintings.

Size

The height is between 11 inches to 13 inches. They usually weigh approx 12 pounds.

Dog’s nature

The Crested is a happy and alert dog. They expect lots of snuggle and kisses from their owners and are also pretty cute and lovely.  These dogs are not friendly with strangers.

Care level and price

A Chinese Crested is not good at jogging and needs less exercise. You can buy toys for them and train them efficiently with minimal effort.

The cost of a puppy is $1000 to $4000.

Shih Tzu

Origin

The Shih Tzu is an Asian toy dog breed originating from Tibet. This dog breed is known for its large round eyes and short snout. Their ever floppy ears, stout, short posture, and growing coat are very popular.

The name comes from the Chinese language word for “lion” because this kind of dog was bred to resemble the lion.

Size

Their height is 9 inches to 10.5 inches, and their weight is 9 pounds to 16 pounds.

Dog’s nature

The Shih Tzu is an adaptable dog. They don’t mind where they live and are comfortable in every city. You can say they are house dogs and play in the backyard. They are playful with the owner and older children.

Care level and price

The Shih Tzu needs a short walk every day, and they are not active dogs. This dog breed is sensitive to heat. You need to create an air-conditioned room for them.

The puppy price can be between $500 to $1600, and the average cost can be $850.

Lhasa Apso

Origin

The Lhasa Apso is a non-sporting dog breed originating in Tibet. Traditionally it has been used as an indoor guard dog. Apso is a word from the Tibetan language, and Lhasa is the city of Tibet.

Size

The height is 10 inches to 11 inches, and their weight is 12 pounds to 18 pounds.

Dog’s nature

They are confident, complex, and smart; Lhasas are family comedians. This dog breed is non-familiar with strangers.

Care level and price

Lhasa Apso is a thousand-year-old dog breed that lives in the Himalayas. So they need an air-conditioned environment. You must brush their hair once a week.

The average cost of the puppy is $900 to $1300.

Shar-Pei Dog

Origin

The Shar-Pei is a breed of dog from southern China. Traditionally people used to keep them as property guardians and watchdogs.

Size

The height is 18 inches to 20 inches, and the weight is 45 pounds to 60 pounds.

Dog’s nature

This fascinating but challenging breed of ancient pedigree is steadfastly loyal to family but standoffish with strangers. The Chinese Shar-Pei has physical characteristics that make him a one-of-a-kind companion and guardian dog.

Care level and price

The Shar-Pei can live easily in any place. They need a limited space, like a condo or an apartment, as long as he gets to exercise every day. These dog breeds don’t need a backyard, and also, Shar-Pei loves hanging out.

The price of Shar-Pei starts from $342.

Top 4 Korean dogs 

Korea is the origin of the most fantastic dogs in Asia. A few dogs are popular in the world, but some dog breeds are lesser-known. Let’s have a look at the top 4 native Korean dogs:

Nureongi

Origin

The Nureongi are mongrel dogs with yellowish coloring. The term is the transliteration of the Korean word, which means “yellow one.”

Size

Their height is approx 20 inches, and their weight is approx 40 to 55 pounds.

Dog’s nature

Nureongi is a calm and friendly dog. They are an intelligent breed of dog and never aggressive towards any humans.

Care level and price

This dog breed is very calm, and you can keep them indoors. Many Nureongi dogs can spend their lives in a kennel.

Donggyeongi

Origin

Donggyeongi is also named Donggyeong gae and Daeng gyeon. It is a dog breed that originated in Korea and is naturally bob-tailed. They were named after the coastal city they originated from – Gyeongju, Korea.

Size

The height of Donggyeongi is 18.5 inches to 20 inches, and their weight is 35 pounds to 40 pounds. 

Dog’s nature

This breed is so loyal and friendly to the owner.  Their sizable frame makes them excellent guard dogs.

Care level and price

Donggyeongi is a rare dog breed in Korea, so they are very adaptable to the environment of Korea.

The price of a puppy is approx $1000.

Pungsan

Origin

The Poongsan or Pungsan is a popular hunting dog breed from Korea. They originated in the Kaema highlands of what is now North Korea. The rare breed of dog smuggled over the North Korea–China border.

Size

Pungsan’s height is approx 21.5 inches to 3.5 inches, and their weight is 44 pounds to 66 pounds. 

Dog’s nature

The Pungsan is a loyal and brave dog. They are friendly to their masters but not with younger children.

Care level and price

Pungsan breed of dog needs exercise. They love hiking, jogging, and hunting. They can get bored quickly.

The price of a puppy is approx $1000. 

Jeju

Origin

The Jeju breed of dogs got their name from the southern coast of Korea, Jeju Island. This dog breed originated from Jeju Island of Korea. They’re recognized to be one of the biggest native Korean dogs.

Size

The height of Jeju dogs is 19 inches to 21 inches, and their weight is 26 pounds to 35 pounds.

Dog’s nature

Jeju is a family dog and known for its loyalty towards the owner. They can protect your home with their watchdog skills.

Care level and price

You need to give them training at an early age so that dogs can be socialized easily. They don’t need regular brushing or bathing.

You can buy a Jeju puppy at approx $1000.

Top 4 Vietnam Dog Breeds

The dogs of Vietnam are not so popular globally; however, it is the origin of great dog breeds. It is a small country with a few varieties of breeds. Find the top 4 Vietnam dogs list below:

The Bac Ha

Origin

The Bac Ha dog got its name from the place of its birth (known as Vitespitz). They are known from the Bac Ha Highlands in Lao Cai. Since the feudal period in Vietnam, the Bac Ha dogs have existed.

Size

The Bac Ha is a medium-sized dog. The dog’s height is approx 19.6 inches to 23.6 inches. Their weight is a minimum of 35 to 57 pounds.

Dog’s nature

The Bac Ha is best known for its intelligence. They can learn easily and quickly. Also, Bac Ha is a very disciplined, loyal, and vigilant dog. These dogs are non-friendly with strangers.

Care level & price

You need to feed rice and meat to them. Don’t serve them fermented foods or raw things.

You can get a puppy at $20 to $40 only. And if you search for a Bac Ha dog, then its price is about $500 to $1000, and possibly even more.

Phu Quoc Ridgeback

Asian dog: Phu Quoc Ridgeback (Source: Phuquoc Island Explorer)
Asian dog: Phu Quoc Ridgeback (Source: Phuquoc Island Explorer)

Origin

Phu Quoc Ridgeback is the symbolic animal of Vietnam. Phu Quoc Ridgeback is a dog breed from the Phú Quốc in Kiên Giang Province, southern Vietnam.

Adult Size

The male dog stands at 20 inches to 25 inches. The weight of a male dog is 39 pounds to 44 pounds and a female dog 26 pounds and 39 pounds.

Nature

The Phu Quoc Ridgeback is an intelligent breed of dog. They learn quickly and are very friendly with their owners. You can train them accordingly.

Care level and price

The Phu Quoc Ridgeback dog needs brushing frequently. You shouldn’t over-bathe the dog, as it can damage their skin.

The price of a puppy is $14000.

Hmong Docked Tail

Origin

The H’mong is known as the early pet of the H’mong ethnic minority, who settled in Lao Cai, Ha Giang, in northern Vietnam. H’mong dogs have the wild nature of a wolf, yet later they were domesticated by the people.

Size

Hmong docked tail’s size is generally 18 inches to 22 inches. Their weight ranges from 33 pounds to 55 pounds.

Dog’s nature

Hmong docked tails are known for socializing and they are well-trained dogs. They are intelligent and have excellent memories. After great training, they are friendly with children.

Care level & price

Hmong docked tail is from a hilly area, so they required cold temperatures. They demand a non-warm place to rest.

Their price ranges between $250 to $1,000, roughly $500

Dingo Indochinese

Origin

Dingo Indochinese is also known as the Lai Dog. It is the National Dog of Vietnam. This breed was found approx 6,000 years ago in Vietnam. They are a primitive breed in the midland and mountainous areas of Vietnam.

Size

Their height is up to 25.5 inches and weighs 55 pounds to 66 pounds. Usually, their body is average in size.

Dog’s nature

Dingo Indochinese is a wise and cruel dog. These dogs are intelligent but need the training to live with people. They are loyal and human-friendly. But they are not children-friendly.

Care level & price

Dingo Indochina dogs are adaptable to all types of weather. These are easy to care for and handle.

The average price of the Dingo puppies is approx $500 to $1000.

Read more about top 4 vietnamese dog breeds.

Top 4 Indian dogs

Pet lovers know that India is the origin of cute, loyal, and intelligent dogs. Many of the famous Indian breeds export to a different part of the world. Here are the top 4 most popular Indian dog breeds in India:

Combai

Origin

The Combai or Kombai is a breed of sighthound native to Tamil Nadu in Southern India. In ancient times, people used to keep this breed for hunting. The Combai dog is a loyal and tough breed.

Size

The height of Combai dogs is 17 inches to 25 inches, and their weight is 31 pounds to 53 pounds.  

Dog’s nature

The Combai dogs are overprotective and sometimes stubborn. Please don’t keep them alone with young children.

Care level and price

You can train them as a guard for the family. This breed of dog adapts to every kind of weather.           

The price of a puppy starts from $100.

Himalayan Mastiff

Origin

The Himalayan mastiff, known locally by various names, including the Bangara or Bhotia, and sometimes named the Himalayan Sheepdog, is a breed of livestock guardian dog from India.

Size

The height of the Himalayan Mastiff is 20 inches to 26 inches, and their weight is 50 pounds to 90 pounds. 

Dog’s nature

The Himalayan mastiff is an intelligent and easy-to-train dog breed. This breed originated from the Himalayan region, so they need an air-conditioned environment. 

Care level and price

This breed of dog is not suited for an apartment in a small place. The Himalayan mastiff has a lot of energy and needs exercise or jogging every day.

The price of a puppy starts from $68.

Indian Spitz

Origin

The Indian Spitz is a popular spitz-type dog breed, and it belongs to the utility group. The Indian Spitz was a famous dog in India in the 1980s and the 1990s when India’s import rules made it very challenging to import dogs of other breeds.

It comes in two versions; one is greater Indian Spitz, and the second is lesser Indian Spitz.

Size

The height of Indian Spitz is 13 inches to 15 inches, and their weight is approx 33 pounds to 44 pounds.

Dog’s nature

The Indian Spitz is an energetic and intelligent dog. They are good with children and other dogs. This breed is easy to train, needs exercise, and is very playful.

Care level and price

They are adaptable to every weather and need brushing once a week. The Indian Spitz loves brushing their body hair.

The price of a puppy is $54 to $109.

Bakharwal

Origin

The Bakharwal dog breed originated in northern India. It is an ancient working Indian dog breed found across the Pir Panjal Range of India.

This breed is a guardian dog and home protector. The Bakharwal Dog was found in India and also found in smaller numbers in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Size

The height of Bakharwal dogs is 24 inches to 30 inches, and their weight is 150 pounds to 200 pounds. 

Dog’s nature

These dogs have been popularly called guardian dogs for hundreds of years. They are courageous and steadfast guardians that effectively protect everyone. This dog breed is tolerant of the family members, including their owners. The Bakharwal is aggressive towards other dogs.

Care level and price

The Bakharwal breed of dog needs one session of hair brushing every week. The dogs need daily exercise for approx 60 minutes.

The price of a puppy starts from $27 and can be up to $100.

Wrapping Up

You might have gained enough knowledge about the top 32 Asian dog breeds that are heaven-sent companions for us. All of the breeds originated from different parts of Asia with unique qualities.We hope you read these endearing and novel characteristics of Asian native dogs. Do let us know in the comments if we missed any Asian dog breed which also deserves to be on this list.