Labradors and Golden Retrievers are popular in the city’s urban environment, particularly in gated communities and apartments. Their friendly nature and ease around children are key factors, say pet parents. Shivani Ramakrishnan from Taramani, who has two Labs, said, “As a first-time pet parent, I chose Labs because of their friendly nature. They are easy to train, have low grooming costs and don’t require a muzzle.”
Sunitha Joshi, who owns golden retrievers, said they are adaptive and playful with children in common apartment spaces. “These breeds are ideal for a metro because of their soft temperament,” she said.
Smaller households, on the other hand prefer beagles. K Vijay of Mogappair, who lives in a two-BHK without a balcony, said, “We wanted a dog for companionship. Beagles are friendly, easy to carry, and fit well in our small household.”
Dog breeder RV Nirmal Kumar, representing the Canine Pet Dealers Welfare Association, said toy-sized breeds such as beagles are ideal. However, medium-sized breeds are often chosen for their fashionable appearance. Native breeds such as Chippiparai and Rajapalayam find it hard to find sellers due to lack of space in households and awareness among people, say breeders.
Breeders and activists emphasize promoting local favorites such as Indies, Rajapalayam, Kombai and Chippiparai for their adaptability, affordability, and protective nature. Arun Prasanna of People for Cattle in India said, “Our native dogs don’t require pellet foods or vitamin supplements.”
Greater Chennai Corporation Commissioner Dr J Radhakrishnan said, “We often overlook the quality of our native dogs, which are highly adaptive and friendly. We will work with NGOs to promote adoption of native breeds,” he said, noting that the GCC recently facilitated the adoption of 1,200 stray dogs through an NGO.
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