Kyiv is a city where dogs have long since become not just pets, but full-fledged members of the family. People take their dogs with them to coffee shops, on walks in the park, on trips, and even to work. However, the fast pace of city life, apartment living, and busy schedules significantly influence the choice of breed.

There is no official, publicly available ranking of dog breeds based on the number of dogs in Kyiv. But nationwide trends, data from the Ukrainian Kennel Club, and the experience of Kyiv pet stores reveal some clear favorites. Today, city dwellers most often choose compact companion dogs that easily adapt to apartment living and the urban lifestyle. In 2026, the Ukrainian Kennel Club named the Pomeranian the most popular breed in Ukraine.

Here’s a look at which dogs are most commonly seen on the streets of the capital and what prospective owners need to know.

Pomeranian

Small, fluffy, and incredibly photogenic—the Pomeranian thrives in an apartment and easily becomes the center of attention for the whole family. It’s an active, smart, and emotional dog that loves being close to its owner.

Beneath the Spitz’s striking coat lies a thick double coat that requires regular brushing. It should not be shaved short unnecessarily: improper grooming can damage the coat. It’s especially important to thoroughly comb the areas behind the ears, on the paws, and under the collar, where mats most often form.

Maltese

The snow-white Maltese remains one of the most beloved companion breeds in Kyiv. It is compact, gentle, people-oriented, and adapts well to life even in a small apartment.

The Maltese’s long, light-colored coat requires regular grooming. Without regular brushing, it quickly becomes matted, and noticeable tear stains may appear around the eyes. Many owners choose convenient, shorter haircuts for their furry friends, which help them maintain a neat appearance in everyday life.

Poodle

Toy and miniature Poodles have become true favorites among urban families. They are intelligent, sociable, energetic, and easy to train. A Poodle can be a wonderful companion for an active person, a family with children, or an owner who wants to interact with their dog a lot.

Their curly coat hardly sheds on its own, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t require grooming. It grows continuously, easily mats into tight tangles, and requires regular brushing and trimming.

Maltipoo

The Maltipoo is not a separate breed recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), but rather a designer crossbreed of the Maltese and the Poodle. However, these dogs have become some of the most noticeable in Kyiv in recent years.

Owners are drawn to their small size, distinctive appearance, and friendly nature. At the same time, a Maltipoo’s appearance, size, coat type, and temperament can vary depending on inherited traits. Their soft, wavy, or curly coat is prone to matting, so it’s a good idea to get your puppy used to being brushed starting in the first few months.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshir Terriers have long been a staple of city life. They are small, bold, active, and have a much more serious temperament than might appear at first glance.

A Yorkshire Terrier’s coat resembles human hair in texture and grows continuously. It requires bathing as needed, brushing, and regular grooming to maintain its shape. You can keep the hair long for a show-ready look or opt for a more practical short cut.

French Bulldog

The French Bulldog charms with its charisma, comical expressions, and strong attachment to people. It doesn’t require complicated coat care, is a convenient size for apartment living, and usually loves to be close to the family.

However, its low-maintenance appearance does not mean it requires no care at all. You’ll need to keep the folds on its muzzle, ears, and paws clean and monitor the condition of its skin. Due to the unique structure of their muzzles, French Bulldogs may have a hard time tolerating heat and intense physical activity, so in the summer, it’s best to plan walks for the cooler hours of the day.

Why Kyiv Residents Often Choose Small Dogs

The popularity of compact breeds in the capital is easy to explain. It’s more convenient to get around the city with a small dog, visit pet-friendly establishments, use public transportation, and travel. A small dog takes up less space in an apartment, and it’s easier to pick up in an emergency.

However, a small size doesn’t mean an easygoing temperament or a lack of needs. A Spitz may bark a lot, a Dachshund may demand plenty of exercise, a Chihuahua may react warily to strangers, and the coat of a Maltese or Maltipoo requires significantly more grooming time than that of some large dogs.

How to Choose the Right Breed for You

Don’t base your decision solely on trendy videos and photos. Before bringing home a puppy, honestly assess:

  • how much time you can devote to walks and training;
  • whether you’re prepared to groom their coat regularly;
  • how long the dog will be left alone;
  • whether there are small children or other pets in the family;
  • what budget you can allocate for food, veterinary care, and necessary procedures;
  • Does the breed’s temperament fit your lifestyle?

The best breed isn’t necessarily the most popular one. It’s the dog whose needs align with the capabilities and lifestyle of its future owner. And don’t forget about mixed-breed dogs and rescue dogs: among them, you can also find the perfect companion for life in a big city.

No matter which breed you choose, love, care, training, and proper care remain the most important components of a happy dog’s life.