[BettyInToronto]

My husband & I will be retiring in Hong Kong in about 5 years. We would like a dog then. We have started our research now to see what dog fits our lifestyle the best.

We are also thinking about getting the dog now and bringing it with us versus waiting until we are living there which would probably mean getting a dog from HKDR.

We look at our situation now (large house, large property, cold winters, etc) compared to when we move to HK (700 sq ft flat, prefer 2nd floor of village house so lots of stairs, lots of rain, etc). I find lots of breeds that work well here but can't seem to find a breed that would move into our Hong Kong lifestyle very well. (too hot, too humid, no backyard for running freely, etc)

Can everyone please tell me what they think are the top 5 popular dog breeds in HK?

[Skyhook]

In no particular order:

• Golden Retriever ( definitely the most common dog I see walked by maids around here )
  
• Standard Collie ( common sight )
• Schnauzer ( very common sight )
  
• Chinese Imperial court dogs, of various breed, typically small, lap types.
  
• Standard ( black ) Poodle is popular in our complex.
  
• New Territories golden village dog. Mangy Dingo looking dog, tough as old boot straps and goes for gold if someone trys to break in, or when protecting the family. No dog more fierce or hardy, than a garden variety village dog.

[sandyduncan]

I have fostered a few dogs from HKDR. Like people each dog had its own personality. Remember it gets really humid during summer here so I am amazed at some of the breeds that are here in Hong Kong. But it is down to you being a responsible dog owner. If you are willing to walk them, care for them and give them a good life then choose a dog that will suit your lifestyle. Please look at the dog rescue sites first and I am sure you will find a dog whether a mixed breed or pure breed that is just right for you. good luck. If you need any of the links for the rescue sites here let me know

[Meerkat]

I always think the Huskies around Robinson Road look like they fit in very well and must provide a great ottoman alternative once safely back in their 600 sq ft homes.

Pugs seem to be very common, but you need to be into the latest dog fashions to keep them dressed in vogue.

Chihahua's are quite popular too but they can clash under the arm with this season's hand bags.

Something small and flat coated unless you are going to be regularly taking your pooch to the doggy hairdressers.

Don't forget to practice your poop scooping and get a directional water bottle for pee sluicing. Or you could just get a maid to bring her own kit (this option is popular in mid levels).

Please don't bring another dog to Hong Kong...go to the shelters when you get here.

[nurse_maria]

5 most common dog breeds i see here on kowloon side (in no particular order):
1. Shih Tzu
2. Pekingese
3. Maltese
4. Chihuahua
5. Schnauzer

I understand that No.1 to 3 are really common here cos they were bred by the Chinese.

[XI_YAN]

maltese? lol it isn't even a recognised breed yet and certainly not chinese.

[carang]

from our extensive experience caring for dogs, i would say that golden retrievers and pugs must be close to the top of the list, as are labs...there are quite a few pomeranians around too.

[XI_YAN]

I think you should choose a dog based on what suits you in terms of care (long / short hair) size (apartment size. exercise (active breed or not) and not on what other people have? Do you have a dog now? Why do you want a dog? Do you know what is involved in caring for a dog (time/costs/exercise/vets etc)? All of these are factors in deciding to get a dog and what kind of dog.

[BettyInToronto]

Skyhook: Love the NT golden village dog. Sounds perfect.

Sandyduncan: I agree that I'm always amazed at some of the dog breeds I see in HK. I find it so hot and humid and I'm not wearing a big fur coat.

Meerkat: You made me laugh

XI_YAN: You obviously didn't read my original post. No I do not currently own a dog. The main reason is that I DO know the amount of work and have not in the past been able to provide this as we are two busy professionals. Money is not an issue. We know that we WILL be able to provide the time & effort once we are retired in HK. We are just doing our research now so that in the end we get a dog that best suits our lifestyle and that includes the weather in HK. We have almost decided 100% that we will wait and get one from HKID.

[nurse_maria]

Xi_Yan must really be a breed expert. Sorry for the mistake.