If you’re curious about what are the most popular dog breeds in Brazil, then you came to the right place on the internet.
In this post, I’ll be sharing what are the most popular dogs in Brazil according to official rankings from the Brazilian Kennel Club (Confederação Brasileira de Cinofilia) in 2019/2020.
Note that over time breeds may change in rankings.
By Mila Bander.
Affiliate Disclosure
This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through these links. This is at no extra cost to you.
Before we start, it’s nice to remember that no dog is more important than the other; I personally believe all dogs are beautiful and worthy of love, even the ones with no breed.
In fact, you’ll have a sweet surprise by the end of this post!
Don’t miss it! 😉
Pomeranian Dog, Zwergspitz (in English) / Pomerânia, Spitz Alemão (in Brazilian Portuguese)
The Pomeranian dog is the most popular breed in Brazil (as of 2019/2020). Also known as Spitz, this small sized, friendly looking dog has become very popular in the last few years.
Pomeranian dogs are affectionate, smart and very attached to their owners.
They are also full of personality despite their petite size.
It’s as if they don’t know (or don’t care) about how small they are; they will even bark at or challenge bigger dogs!
One fun fact about the Pomeranian Dog is that they are the smallest member of what is known as the “Spitz” family, which is composed by dogs such as the Samoyed, Alaskan Malamute, and Norwegian Elkhound.
The Pomeranian Dog might be so popular in Brazil due to their small size, cuteness and personality.
In terms of exercise, Pomeranians need a moderate amount of exercise.
They will benefit from both indoor activity and short leash walks outside.
They can live happily in both the city and the suburbs, so practically everyone can successfully own one of these puppies.
They fit better into an apartment than a larger dog, and are easier and more affordable to care for than a larger dog as well.
French Bulldog (In English) / Bulldog Francês (in Brazilian Portuguese)
The French bulldog is the second most popular dog in Brazil (as of 2019/2020), according to the Brazilian Kennel Club.
French Bulldogs are compact in size, but robust and strong.
French bulldogs might be so popular in Brazil due to their size (the top 3 dogs in Brazil are all smaller sized dogs) and also their sweet personality.
French bulldogs are very tranquil, upbeat, positive dogs, despite the fact that most of them have difficulty breathing due to breeding.
Unfortunately, most French bulldogs need surgery to open their nostrils and shorten their soft palate, so they can run, play, breathe, sleep without snoring so much and live longer.
New owners will benefit in being aware of their French dog’s needs before adopting.
Shih Tzu – Brave And Cute
Get ready for a fun fact!
Shih Tzu means “little lion” in Chinese!
That fits these dogs perfectly, since they have a lot of hair around their heads, along with a brave spirit.
Shih-tzus are the third most popular dog breed in Brazil, and this might be due to the fact that they are small in size, very soft to pet and very loyal to their owners.
Shih-tzus are really cute, upbeat and outgoing, but they also adapt well to living in an apartment.
Another fun fact about Shih-tzus is that they came from China, and used to be kept by the royal Chinese families in the Ming Dynasty. Fancy!
Rottweilers – Iconic Guard Dogs
Rottweilers are the 4th most popular breed of dogs in Brazil (as of 2019/2020).
They are a robust breed of dogs who possess great strength, but are also gentle playmates and protective of the family circle they inhabit with.
Rottweilers are descendants from the mastiffs of the Roman legions. According to the assessment of a rottweiler by the American Kennel Club, these dogs are strong and courageous.
With early training and socialization, a rottweiler’s territorial instincts can develop in a positive way.
But you can never be too careful when it comes to strong dogs (such as the rottweiler) around children.
Pug – Your Pocket-sized Bulldog
The pug is the 5th most popular dog in Brazil.
These chonky little cuties are originally from China, but became very popular around the entire globe.
Pugs were once companions of the Chinese emperors, and later the mascots of Holland’s royal House of Orange.
Pugs are loved by their round, “chonky” bodies, and their large head, cute face and big shiny eyes.
But they’re not just cute on the outside: pugs are very loyal, love to please their owners, very adaptable, friendly towards humans of all ages and just fun to play with.
Despite suffering from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, pugs do the best they can with what they have.
With proper care, training, exercise and supervision, pugs can be a great companion.
Because of their innate condition, they also need someone with the means to take them regularly to the vet, and even afford surgeries.
It’s nice to remember that pugs are sensitive dogs in more than one sense; their feelings can get hurt easily, and they need a lot of care.
Be kind to all dogs, be even kinder to dogs such as a pug.
Golden Retriever – Everything You Could Expect from A Dog
You’ve seen Golden Retrievers hundreds of times in the movies. It’s one of the most popular dogs in the entire world, and in Brazil, it’s in 6th place.
It is slowly climbing the ranks though, and as of 2021, it’s actually in 5th place.
This big, loyal, lovely breed has many qualities.
Golden retrievers are everything you could expect from a dog.
Many Golden retrievers work as service dogs helping people in need, such as visually impaired individuals, seniors, children at hospitals, and they also work as therapy dogs for people with mental health issues.
One of the most well known golden retriever as of 2019-2022 is Tucker Budzyn.
He has over 3 million followers between YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.
This famous golden retriever is well-known for his mischievous personality and, most recently, his reaction when he saw a hair clip for the first time.
Tucker is the Internet’s favorite Golden Retriever right now, with videos on YouTube’s “Trending Page,” stories in Allure Magazine, and even a shout-out from Oprah.
It is safe to say that this golden retriever is the Internet’s favorite at the moment.
German Shepherd (in English) / Pastor Alemão (in Brazilian Portuguese)
The German sheperd is the 7th most popular dog in Brazil.
These large dogs are muscular, strong, loyal, confident and of noble character and high intelligence.
German shepherds are curious, smart and great learners.
But that does not come without a downside…
…If you are unfamiliar with German shepherds, this breed of dog can be extremely tough to train due to their stubborn and independent disposition.
They do best in big spaces, as long as they also feel safe.
They can play behind a fence and have their own dog house to sleep in – this makes hyperactive, territorial dogs such as the German Shepherd feel safe and calmer.
But don’t be fooled: despite their elegant appearance, German shepherds can also be very silly and playful with their closest friends.
He’s a dog, after all!
Yorkshire Terrier – An Elegant Little Companion
The Yorkshire Terrier is the 8th most popular dog in Brazil. This small dog is everything you could expect from a small sized dog.
From the laps of Victorian ladies until today, Yorkiers are very popular.
Terriers are cute, soft (don’t worry, their fur is also hypoallergenic!) and full of personality.
But be warned: “babying” a Yorkshire terrier might bring the worst of the breed out.
Michele Welton, dog trainer, behavioral consultant, and author of 15 dog books, warns: “As a trainer and behavioral consultant, the biggest problems I see with Yorkies have to do with how their owners treat them.
If you carry your Yorkie everywhere, you’re telling him that you think the world is too terrifying for him to walk around in.”
If cared for properly, the Yorkshire Terrier is a lovely little companion.
I also believe that one of the greatest advantages of having a Yorkshire Terrier is being able to use ribbons and hair bands to decorate their abundant hair.
Don’t pretend you don’t agree with me!
Border Collie – The Einstein Of Dogs
Recognized as the smartest dog, the Border Collie is the 9th most popular dog breed in Brazil.
Border collies are big sized dogs, athletic, and LOVE to learn!
These dogs are smart and will surprise you over and over again.
Border collies are also agile, loyal and kind; they used to help their humans with herding sheep after all. They are working dogs and require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. They were bred for this!
The Border Collie is an incredible dog.
Maybe a little too amazing for owners who don’t have the time, energy, or means to keep it occupied.
It’s important to understand Border Collies need space and plenty of activity during the day – they’re not couch or lap dogs!
Lhasa Apso – Floquinho!
This breed is increasing in popularity in Brazil, and it’s no surprise.
It’s right between a fluffly small sized dog, but it also enjoys long walks and is stronger than a shih tzu, for example.
The Lhasa Apso is also the breed of one of the most famous dogs in Brazil: Floquinho, the famous comic character Cebolinha’s dog, created by Mauricio de Sousa.
The first time I saw a Lhasa Apso, I couldn’t believe how cute it was!
It’s worth noting that despite them naturally having long fur, not trimming it around their face might hurt their eyes, cause infection and impair optimal breathing.
Pinscher – A Small Warrior
This breed is one of the smallest, fiercest ones you can find. It’s also increasing in popularity in Brazil, and it’s common to see at least one pinscher barking from inside their front yard in every neighborhood.
Pinschers are a good choice for someone who wants a dog to warn about possible dangers, but doesn’t want to deal with a large breed.
Poodle – A Fluffy Companion
Poodles are one of the most popular dogs in Brazil, varying in size from classic large white poodle, to smaller mixed breeds.
Poodles have curly, soft fur and while they are less muscular than other breeds and enjoy being at home, they also enjoy playing and going for a little exercise.
It’s important to train this loyal breed not to bark too much, as they are prone to do so.
And I can attest to that. I had a close neighbor who owned a Poodle, and it took years for it to stop barking when I passed by. It did not get used to me quickly.
Poodles can be trained not to bark with treats and positive reinforcement.
Maltese – A Small Elegant Companion
The Maltese, or in Portuguese, “Maltês”, is becoming one of the most beloved dogs in Brazil, as of 2021.
Sharp black eyes and a long, silky white coat give the Maltese a fluffy and aristocratic vibe.
The Maltese is exceedingly active and playful, as well as quite intelligent.
However, if they are not properly trained, they can become jealous, possessive, and even aggressive.
Daschund – Known as “Little Sausage Dog”
In Brazil, Daschunds are affectionately called “salsichinha”, which means “little sausage dog”.
This Daschund is cute, small and energetic. They love to play and are curious about everything.
Daschunds are also great watchdogs, and will warn their owners of unusual activities around the house.
As with any other breed, they need to be trained not to take their instincts to the extreme.
The REAL most popular dog “breed” in Brazil: the “Caramelo Dog” ou “Vira-lata Caramelo” (Stray Caramel Dog)
Known as the “Vira-Lata Caramelo” (or Stray Caramel Dog, in English), this yellow-ish stray dog can be seen everywhere in Brazil.
If you’re Brazilian, chances are you either had a caramel dog, knew someone who had one, or petted one at least a few times in your life.
I have become friends with a Caramel Dog that belongs to a neighbor but roams free, and every time I see her, she looks so happy to see me too!
She even follows me when I’m walking to the beach and just hangs out with me. But always goes back home.
That’s how loyal and friendly Caramel dogs are!
Caramel Dogs are considered by many, symbolic to Brazilian culture.
Caramel dogs are a mixture of different breeds
They resemble Labradors and Golden retrievers but with something else (that nobody knows) into the mix.
Caramel dogs are usually medium to big in size, but very friendly and kind, while also being able to become protective with their territory, pack or owners.
They are everything you could expect from a dog: loyal, smart, athletic, playful and cute!
I believe all dogs can be great companions and all dogs deserve to be loved: dogs with breed, stray dogs and adopted dogs.
Every living being on this earth deserves the chance to be loved and respected!
Photo by Tom.