What Is the Most Popular Dog Breed in South Korea?

When you think of South Korea, images of bustling cities, vibrant street food, and cutting-edge technology may come to mind. But Korea is also a nation of passionate dog lovers, and just like in the United States, certain breeds capture the hearts of families more than others.

While Korea has its own national breed, the Korean Jindo, a loyal hunting dog native to Jindo Island, the country’s most popular household companion looks very different. The Maltese consistently ranks as the most common dog breed in South Korea, especially in urban centers like Seoul.

At Alaska Dog Works, and now through our expansion into Seoul Dog Works, we study not just how to train dogs but also how culture, environment, and lifestyle shape breed popularity. In this article, we’ll explore why the Maltese is the top choice in Korea, what other breeds dominate the scene, and what this tells us about the future of dog ownership in the country.

The Maltese: Korea’s Most Popular Companion

The Maltese has captured the number-one spot in South Korea for years. A small, white, silky-coated breed, the Maltese fits neatly into the rhythms of modern urban life.

Why the Maltese Is So Beloved

Perfect for Apartment Living
With most South Koreans living in high-rise apartments, space is limited. A small breed like the Maltese doesn’t require a large yard or sprawling home, making them an ideal choice.
Low Shedding and Hypoallergenic
The Maltese’s coat requires grooming but doesn’t shed much, which is a major advantage in apartments where cleanliness is highly valued.
Friendly and Social
Maltese dogs are affectionate, adaptable, and thrive on companionship. They bond closely with their families and are often easier to integrate into Korea’s busy social lifestyle than more independent breeds.
Cultural Symbol of Cuteness
In Korea, aesthetics matter. The Maltese, with its fluffy coat and round dark eyes, fits neatly into the cultural love of all things “aegyo” (cute). Grooming styles such as teddy-bear cuts only enhance their appeal.

Training Considerations

While Maltese dogs are charming, they are also known for being vocal. Without proper training, they can develop habits like excessive barking. That’s where structured, ongoing programs like our Peak Performance Membership at Alaska Dog Works, and now available through Seoul Dog Works, make a difference. Coaching owners to handle small breeds with consistency ensures these dogs remain happy companions rather than neighborhood noise machines.

Other Popular Dog Breeds in South Korea

While the Maltese leads the pack, several other breeds consistently rank high in Korea’s popularity charts.

The Poodle

Poodles, particularly Toy and Miniature Poodles, are a close second. Their intelligence, trainability, and hypoallergenic coats make them ideal for city life. In Korea, they’re prized not just for their brains but for their adaptability, poodles excel in obedience training and can thrive in both small apartments and active households.

Training Note: Without enough mental stimulation, Poodles can become mischievous. At Seoul Dog Works, we emphasize puzzle games, enrichment activities, and handler engagement to keep them focused.

The Pomeranian

Fluffy, outgoing, and full of personality, the Pomeranian is another breed adored in Korea. Their small size makes them portable companions, often seen carried in stylish pet bags or even strollers.

Challenge: Pomeranians can be feisty and bold despite their size. Owners benefit from structured socialization and leadership coaching to prevent excessive barking or dominance issues.

The Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu, with its calm demeanor and affectionate nature, has long been a family favorite. Historically bred as a lapdog for Chinese royalty, it fits well into Korea’s household environments.

Training Tip: Shih Tzus can be stubborn when it comes to housebreaking. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement, core principles of Alaska Dog Works training, are key.

Why Small Breeds Dominate in Korea

Looking at the list, one thing stands out: all the most popular breeds in Korea are small.

This isn’t just coincidence, it reflects the realities of Korean urban living.

Apartment Culture
More than 80% of Koreans live in apartments or multi-unit buildings. Small breeds are simply easier to manage in compact spaces.
Pet-Friendly Cafés and Social Spots
Korea is famous for its dog cafés and pet-friendly establishments. Smaller dogs are easier to bring along, fitting the lifestyle of owners who want to integrate their pets into daily activities.
Maintenance and Grooming
Breeds like the Maltese, Poodle, and Shih Tzu require grooming but shed very little, which helps maintain cleanliness in small living quarters.
Travel and Portability
Small dogs can often travel in-cabin on flights or public transport, which is crucial in a country where mobility and convenience are highly valued.

The Jindo: Korea’s National Dog

While the Maltese tops the popularity chart, the Jindo remains Korea’s national breed. Originating from Jindo Island, this spitz-type dog is known for its loyalty, bravery, and hunting skills.

Unlike the Maltese or Poodle, the Jindo is medium-sized and more independent. Jindos require confident handling, plenty of exercise, and structured training. They’re less common in Seoul apartments but remain a cultural symbol of Korean heritage.

At Alaska Dog Works, we often compare the Jindo to Alaskan sled dogs. Both represent a deep connection between people, place, and survival. While sled dogs are built for teamwork and endurance, Jindos embody loyalty and guardianship. Both teach us about resilience in demanding environments.

What This Means for Families in Korea

Whether you’re a Korean resident, an expat, or a military family relocating to Seoul, understanding breed popularity helps you make informed decisions.

If you want a dog that fits into Korea’s social lifestyle, breeds like the Maltese, Poodle, and Pomeranian are well-suited.
If you’re drawn to cultural heritage, the Jindo may appeal to you, but it requires preparation and commitment.
If you’re bringing a dog from abroad, know that larger breeds are less common and may attract attention. You’ll also need to prepare for the challenges of traveling with your dog and meeting Korean quarantine requirements.

How Seoul Dog Works Supports Dog Owners

The launch of Seoul Dog Works means families now have access to Alaska Dog Works’ proven training model in South Korea. We understand that owning a dog in Korea comes with unique challenges:

Adapting to apartment life with exercise and enrichment strategies.
Managing small-breed behavior like barking, separation anxiety, or housebreaking.
Navigating cultural expectations, from pet cafés to grooming trends.
Supporting expat and military families through real-time coaching in Korean time zones.

Through our membership-based approach, including The Pack™ and Peak Performance programs, owners receive ongoing support rather than one-time fixes. That continuity is critical for success, whether you’re raising a Maltese puppy in downtown Seoul or managing a Poodle’s energy in a high-rise.

Tips for Prospective Dog Owners in Korea

If you’re considering adding a dog to your household in South Korea, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Choose a breed that matches your lifestyle, don’t just follow trends.
Plan for grooming and veterinary care, which can be frequent with small, long-haired breeds.
Commit to training early, urban environments demand good manners, especially in apartments.
Build a community, joining a program like Seoul Dog Works connects you to other dog owners who share your challenges and experiences.

In Closing…

So, what is the most popular dog breed in South Korea? While the Maltese holds the crown, breeds like the Poodle, Pomeranian, and Shih Tzu are also beloved across the country. Small, friendly, and well-suited to Korea’s urban lifestyle, these dogs thrive in high-rise apartments and social spaces alike.

But the Jindo, Korea’s national breed, still represents the country’s heritage, a reminder of the unique bond between humans and dogs that transcends time and place.

At Alaska Dog Works and Seoul Dog Works, we’re here to help families navigate life with dogs in Korea, whether you’re raising a Maltese in Seoul or honoring tradition with a Jindo.

Ready to learn more about our programs? Schedule a strategy call today and discover how we can help you and your dog thrive, no matter where your journey takes you.