The 25 Best Dog Pokémon of All Time

What are the best dog Pokémon of all time?

Dogs have been man’s best friend for centuries, and this is true in the Pokémon world when it comes to dog-like Pokémon.

However, just like there are hundreds of dog breeds in our world, so too are there many different kinds of Poké-Pooches.

Today we’re counting down the 25 best dog Pokémon so that you can try to catch’em all.

The Best Dog Pokémon of All Time

Our ranked lists are created by researching and rounding up information from the most reputable web sources.

Here’s our list of the 25 best dog Pokémon of all time:

25. Luxio

Luxio is a dog Pokémon introduced in Generation IV. An evolved version of Shinx, this good boy is shockingly cute.

As an Electric-type Pokémon, Luxio resembles a light blue lion-like dog with claws that can generate over 1,000,000 volts of electricity.

Stats

Luxio has an attack stat of 85 and a special attack stat of 60, making him a solid fighter that players can rely on.

Although with a defense of 49, he’s not the best at holding out against stronger opponents, against Water or Flying-type Pokémon, he can be a decent choice.

24. Electrike

Another Electric-type Pokémon, Electrike, was introduced in Generation III, which contained Ruby, Sapphire, and Pokémon Emerald games, and it evolves into Manectric beginning at level 26.

This green canine Pokémon is adorned with yellow markings that resemble lighting bolts starting at his muzzle and ending at the back of his head.

Its fur conducts an electric charge, and it can use its impressive legs to move faster than the human eye can track.

Stats

Electrike’s best stats are speed and special attack, both of which are 65. This makes him a good choice for offensive battles when facing Water or Flying-types.

However, because he is weak against Ground-types, you’ll need to use him wisely so that he doesn’t end up at a disadvantage.

23. Raikou

This Electric-type Pokémon was introduced in Generation II, and he is one of the Legendary Beasts resurrected by Ho-Oh, along with Entei and Suicune.

Looking a bit like a saber-toothed tiger, this dog-like Pokémon is yellow with black stripes and thick fur around its eyes.

Raikou can fly by making storm clouds, and it often shows up during storms or when it senses that other Electric-types are in danger.

Stats

This legendary dog has incredible speed and special attack, both of 115, and a great special defense stat of 100.

Along with this, its attack (85) and general defense (75) are also very good, making this Pokémon one that you definitely want to keep an eye out for.

22. Fennekin

This Pokémon is just adorable, and with its big ears and bushy tail, you just can’t help but want to catch it.

Fennekin is a Fire-type Pokémon that was introduced in Generation VI, and it evolves into Braixen at level 16 and then Delphox at 36.

This good boy was one of the three starter Pokémon at the beginning of Pokémon X and Y, and it can vent hot air from its ears that reach temperatures of over 390 degrees Fahrenheit to intimidate enemies.

While the name might be a bit of a giveaway, Fennekin looks a bit like a Fennic fox, but with pale yellow fur and red tufts.

Stats

In terms of stats, Fennekin isn’t the hardest hitter, but he does have a solid 62 special attack and 60 special defense.

He’s good against Grass, Bug, Ice, and Steel-types, but weak against Water, Ground, and Rock. To get the most out of this little guy, you’ll want to pick his battles strategically.

21. Luxray

This dog Pokémon is the evolved form of Luxio and the final evolution of Shinx.

Resembling a fully grown lion, it has a mane of thick black fur and rounded ears with yellow centers.

The eyesight of this Pokémon is incredibly strong, si much so that it can see through objects and walls in a way similar to x-ray vision.

Stats

Luxray has an amazing attack stat of 120, a special attack of 95, and a special and general defense stat of 79.

Although he does have his vulnerabilities, this is one of the best dog pokemon if you’re looking to deal a lot of damage.

20. Furfrou

Although it is not known to have any other evolutionary forms, this poodle-like Pokémon can have its fur-trimmed into nine different styles to modify its appearance.

Introduced in Generation VI, this canine Pokemon has thick white fur, which is much fluffier around its face.

Trimming this fur makes the creature much swifter.

Stats

With a speed stat of 102, this pooch is quick, and its 90 special defense and 80 attack stats aren’t bad either.

As a Normal-type Pokémon, Furfrou is strong against Ghost-types but weak against Fighting-types.

19. Vulpix

Vulpix is another incredibly cute dog Pokémon, and he was introduced in Generation I, with the games Red, Green, Blue, and Yellow.

A fire-type, this soft boy has red fur and six fluffy tails that curl at the tips.

These Pokémon can manipulate fire with extreme precision, and inside their bodies is a flame that never goes out.

Stats

Vulpix’s strongest stats are speed and special defense of 65 each, as well as a special attack stat of 50.

While they are weak to Water-type, Rock-type, and Dragon-type Pokémon, they are decently strong against Ice, Steel, Grass, and Bug-types.

18. Flareon

Another fluffy, firey Pokémon, Flareon, is one of Eevee’s final forms and was introduced in Generation I, in the games Red, Green, Blue, and the Japanese Special Edition Yellow.

A short dog Pokémon, Flareon has short red fur with a fluffy yellow mane and tail. It stores and heats hair in internal sacs, which can then be used to exhale as fire.

If it overheats, it can fluff out its mane to cool itself down.

Stats

Flareon really shines with an attack stat of 130, a special attack stat of 95, and a special defense stat of 110.

This Pokémon can bring the heat (pun intended) especially against Grass, Ice, Steel, and Bug-types.

17. Glaceon

Glaceon is another final form of Eevee, and it can be accessed by leveling an Eevee up near an Ice Rock in Gen IV to VII, Brilliant Diamond, and Shining Pearl.

In Sword and Shield, this can occur with exposure to an Ice Stone.

This dog Pokémon is covered in light blue fur, which can freeze into sharp, icy quills.

Using its own body temperature, this Pokémon can freeze the moisture in the air, and those trapped in its chilling snowfall are immediately frozen solid.

Stats

This Ice-type has a great special attack stat of 130 and a general defense stat of 110. Its special defense of 95 and speed of 65 are also very good.

While it is weak to Fighting, Rock, Steel, and Fire, it will do well against other Ice-types, as well as Grass, Flying, and Ground.

16. Manectric

Evolving from Electrike beginning at level 26, this dog Pokemon can also undergo a Mega Evolution to become Mega Manetric using the Manectite.

This canine has a blue body with a spikey mane that helps to identify it as an Electric-type.

Electricity is gathered in this Pokémon’s mane, which can then be discharged during battle.

When Mega Evolved, this creature is so fast its speed and power can equal that of a lightning bolt.

Stats

The speed of this dog Pokemon is impressive, with a stat total of 135, matching its special attack stat level.

Although it is weak against Ground-types, it is an effective fighter.

If you’re willing to spend time evolving your Electrike, this can be a great Pokémon to have on your side.

15. Entei

This dog-like Pokemon has been around since Generation II, and it is another of the Legendary Dogs along with Raikou.

Entei is massive and he shares a lot of appearance traits with the Mastiff dog breed.

With brown fur, sharp grey spikes along its sides, and a cloud of smoke trailing its length, this Pokémon is an impressive sight, both in-game and in the Pokemon anime.

Born wherever a new volcano, Entei is said to represent the power of magma, and he can unleash a devastating burst of fire that destroys everything it touches.

Stats

With 115 attack, 115 HP, 100 speed, and 90 special attack, this Pokémon isn’t messing around, and it can be a powerful friend or foe.

Weak to Ground, Water, and Rock, Entei isn’t invulnerable, but they can be a go too for tricky battles against the right types if you manage to get one on your team.

14. Ninetales

Evolved from Vulpix after exposure to a Fire Stone, Ninetales is a gorgeous Fire-type with thick gold-white fur and a fluffy head crest.

The flames released from its mouth can hypnotize opponents, and its bright red eyes can even have a mind control effect.

Despite being a fire-type, the Pokemon anime showed that Ninetales can swim if the need calls for it.

Stats

Speed and special defense are where this Pokémon shines, and each stat is 100. Its special attack stat of 81 is also very good, making Ninetales a solid Pokémon to invest in.

13. Jolteon

Jolteon evolves from Eevee if the Pokémon is exposed to a Thunder Stone, and this Electric-type is another of its final forms.

Covered in yellow, electrically charged fur and a spikey tail fringe, this Pokémon looks like a cross between a dog and a porcupine.

With an electricity-producing organ in its lungs, this Pokémon can discharge up to 10,000-volt lightning bolts as a brutal attack.

Stats

Jolteon has impressive speed (130) and a special attack (110).

While it isn’t the most powerful compared to some other Pokémon, it can definitely be a shocking opponent against Flying and Water-types.

12. Eevee

Eevee is one of the most popular Normal-type Pokémon, due in large part to the fact that they can evolve into eight different Pokémon, and they are so damn cute.

She’s the rival’s starting Pokémon in Pokémon Yellow, and also has a Gigantamax Form, which appears larger and fluffier.

Stats

Although Eevee’s stats aren’t anything special in their unevolved form, with a special defense of 85 and an attack of 75, they aren’t necessarily weak.

They are also strong against Ghost-types as a Normal-type but can be weak against Fighting-types.

While most people love having an Eevee because of all the ways they can evolve, their unevolved forms are just precious, which is why they feature so prominently in the games, anime, and manga.

11. Yamper

If you love corgis, you’ll love Yamper, who looks like a small, round, electric corgi. Introduced in Generation VIII, this puppy Pokémon evolves into Boltund starting at level 25.

Yamper has a short brown body with a yellow neck scruff with a lightning bolt-shaped tail and a heart pattern on his behind.

Drawn to things that move fast, Yamper loves to chase people, other Pokémon, and vehicles, generating electricity from his tail when he does.

Stats

Yamper has good all-around stats, with HP 59 being his highest.

While in no way the most powerful in the entire franchise, he does improve as he evolves, making him worth investing in.

10. Poochyena

This dark-type dog Pokémon was introduced in Generation III, which included remakes of Gen I titles rebranded as Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen. 

This Pokémon’s closest real-world counterpart would be the hyena, and it has sharp teeth and a keen sense of smell that allows it to find prey easily.

Known for being very tenacious, this little guy is known to be snappy, willing to bite Pokémon, people, and anything else that gets too close.

Stats

Like Eevee, Poochyena doesn’t have spectacular stats, with attack 55 being their highest.

However, as a Dark-type Pokémon, it is strong against Psychic-types, which makes it a good choice in specific battles.

9. Mightyena

This Pokémon is the evolved form of Poochyena, which can be evolved starting at level 18.

Larger than its previous form, it has thick black and grey fur and deep red eyes.

In the wild, it hunts in packs, acting a bit like a wolf, bringing down prey by working with other Mightyenas.

Stats

This Pokémon has a solid attack stat of 90, speed and defense of 70, and special attack and defense of 60.

Like its unevolved form, it can stand up best against Psychic-types, while also being resistant to Dark-type and Ghost-type Pokémon.

8. Umbreon

This Dark-type Pokémon is another evolution of Eevee, and it occurs when Eevee is leveled with a high friendship at night in the main series or with a moon shard in Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness.

Umbreon has a black body with yellow markings that glow in the dark or whenever it is excited.

It is nocturnal and has great night vision that helps it spot prey in the darkness.

Stats

With a special defense stat of 130 and a general defense stat of 110, this Pokémon is good for holding its own against opponents.

While it is weak against Fighting, Bug, and Fairy-type Pokémon, it is strong against Psychic, Dark, and Ghost-types.

7. Suicune

Suicune is a Legendary Pokémon that was introduced in Generation II. Along with Raikou and Entei, it is one of the Legendary Dog Pokémon resurrected by Ho-Oh.

The mascot of Pokémon Crystal, Suicune, is a slim blue dog-like creature with a thick purple mane meant to resemble the aurora borealis.

Said to be the embodiment of the north winds, this Pokémon can walk on water and purify contaminated water with a single touch.

Stats

Suicune has a lot of HP and fantastic special and general defense stats of 115.

As a water-type, it is weak to Electric and Grass-types, but strong against Water, Steel, Ice, and Fire.

This Pokémon will more than hold its own against numerous foes if you’re able to plan your battles accordingly.

6. Houndour

Houndour is a dual Dark/Fire-type Pokémon, and he was introduced in Generation II, evolving from Houndoom beginning at level 24.

This canine is dark but has orange fur around its muzzle and on its belly. There are white bands on its ankles and grey ridges across its back.

Traveling in packs, Hondours are very loyal and won’t abandon pack members who get sick or injured.

When trained, this loyalty extends to their trainers, making them very faithful Pokémon.

Stats

This popular Pokémon has a solid special attack stat of 80 and a decent speed stat of 65.

Although not the most powerful Pokémon on this list, they can hold their own against Steel, Ghost, Fire, Grass, Dark, and Ice-types.

5. Rockruff

Rockruff is one of the cutest good boys and is a Rock-type Pokémon that debuted in Generation VII.

This dog-like Pokémon has brown fur and dark brown ears, a short muzzle, and small tufts of hair on both cheeks.

It is great for beginners due to its friendly nature, and it bonds easily with many trainers.

Stats

Rockruff’s best stat is attack at 65, but it is also fairly quick, with a speed stat of 60.

As a Rock-type Pokémon, these puppies are good against Flying, Poison, Normal, and Poison-types.

While they are weak to Fighting, Grass, Steel, and Water types, they can be good to invest in and evolve for more lasting power.

4. Houndoom

As a duel-type Dark/Fire Pokémon, Houndoom is the original form of Houndour, and he can also Mega Evolve into Mega Houndoom using the Houndoominite.

This Pokémon has a dark body with curling grey horns on its head.

It usually travels in packs like many of the others on this list, and it uses toxins in its stomach to create fire mixed with poison.

Stats

Houndoom has a great special attack stat of 110 and a general attack of 90. It can be particularly effective against Ghost, Steel, Grass, Fire, Dark, and Ice-types, making it useful in a lot of battles.

3. Arcanine

Having debuted in Generation I, Arcanine is the evolved form of a Growlithe exposed to a Fire Stone.

With an orange pelt covered in jagged, tiger-like stripes, this Pokémon is extremely brave and loyal. It is also incredibly fast, capable of running 6,200 miles in only 24 hours.

Stats

Needless to say, this Pokémon has a nice speed stat of 95, making it quite fast right from the baseline.

With a general attack of 110 and a special attack of 100, it is also capable of dealing plenty of damage, especially against Bug-type, Steel-type, Grass-type, and Fairy-type Pokémon.

2. Lycanroc

Evolving from Rockruff, Lycanroc has many forms depending on the time that it evolved.

The Midday form occurs when the Rockruff is leveled during the day and the Midnight form during the night.

However, with Own Temp, Dusk form occurs between 7 PM to 7:59 PM real-time in Generation VIII and 5 PM to 5:59 PM in Ultra Sun or 5 AM to 5:59 AM in Ultra Moon.

Resembling a wolf, Lycanroc is much beloved by fans due to the diversity of its Midnight, Dusk, and Midday forms, which allow players more control over the creature’s evolution.

Stats

Each form comes with unique stats, which also play a large part in which one a player chooses.

For example, Midday forms have an attack of 115 and a speed stat of 112, as a base. Midnight forms have 115 attack, but only 82 as a speed stat, while Dusk forms have 117 attack stat and 110 in speed.

When choosing which form you want to go with, you’ll want to look at both stat bases and aesthetics, so you don’t end up with a Pokémon that isn’t optimal for you.

1. Growlithe

Topping our list as the best dog Pokémon in the Pokémon series, we have Growlithe.

This Fire-type Pokémon debuted in Generation I and evolves into Arcanine when exposed to a Fire Stone.

This Pokémon has orange fur with black stripes, a bush tail, and longer tufts of hair allow its neck and head.

A strong and loyal Pokémon, this little guy will defend their trainers fearlessly, even against enemies much larger than themselves.

It literally is the perfect example of man’s best friend in the Pokemon universe.

Stats

Now, Growlithe doesn’t have the strongest stats, but that doesn’t hold him back.

With a reliable 70 attack, 70 special attack, and 60 speed, this little guy won’t let you down easily, especially if you invest in it and level it up.

Summary

Dogs are incredible whether they are in a game or in real life, and these 25 dog Pokémon are some of the best you can get for yourself in-game.

While not all of them are incredibly tough and strong, they make up for it in many other ways, first and foremost by being some of the cutest Pokémon you can find.

Here’s a quick recap of the 25 best dog Pokémon of all time:

1. Growlithe
2. Lycanroc
3. Arcanine
4. Houndoom
5. Rockruff
6. Houndour
7. Suicune
8. Umbreon
9. Mightyena
10. Poochyena
11. Yamper
12. Eevee
13. Jolteon
14. Ninetales
15. Entei
16. Manectric
17. Glaceon
18. Flareon
19. Vulpix
20. Furfrou
21. Luxray
22. Fennekin
23. Raikou
24. Electrike
25. Luxio

If you enjoyed this article, check out our other Pokemon articles:

• The 25 Best Fish Pokémon
• The 10 Best Bat Pokémon
• The 25 Best Dragon Pokémon
• The 25 Best Bird Pokémon

What’s the best dog Pokémon, in your opinion? Leave a comment below.