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The Ultimate 15 Dog Breeds That Would Make the Best Pokémon Battle Partners

By: Kelli Brinegar
For more than five years, Kelli Brinegar has been using her storytelling skills and nose for research to dig into what makes cats tick—and why they do the weird things they do. But she’s not just fluent in feline. With a heart as loyal as a golden retriever and instincts as sharp as a herding dog, Kelli brings the same passion to understanding all animals, especially our tail-wagging companions. She’s cared for more than 30 cats throughout her life, and her home has always had room (and treats) for the occasional dog or two.Read more
| April 8, 2025

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If dogs lived in the Pokémon universe, they’d be far more than cuddly companions—fiery battlers, elemental allies, and absolute legends on four paws. Some would command flames, others would master stealth, and a few might evolve purely through sass or sheer stubborn determination. With bold personalities, unique powers, and an unshakable loyalty to their trainers, these real-life breeds would fit perfectly inside a Poké Ball. Whether facing off against a gym leader or dramatically navigating tall grass, these dogs would bring the battle—and maybe a bark—for every step.

Belgian Malinois

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Fast, focused, and fierce, the Belgian Malinois would definitely be a fighting type with some Electric tendencies thanks to its lightning-fast reflexes. This breed has the stamina of a seasoned Elite Four champion and could probably master every agility move in the Pokédex. They don’t just listen—they anticipate, making them ideal for strategic battle combos. Their sharp mind would be perfect for learning tactical moves like Detect or Double Team.

Siberian Husky

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With their wolfish looks and ice-ready attitude, the Siberian Husky would naturally fall into the Ice-type category. Their endurance is legendary, and their howl alone could be a sound-based move with enough power to stun an opponent mid-battle. They may be a bit stubborn to train, but they’d go full Legendary with the right bond. Just expect every battle to end in dramatic flair and excessive zoomies.

Shiba Inu

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Shiba Inus may be small, but don’t let their size fool you—they’re bold, feisty, and full of independent spirit. As a Fire/Dark-type, their stubborn streak would translate into high evasion and some sneaky attack combos. Think Flame Charge meets Sucker Punch. Shibas would probably pretend not to hear your command… then win the battle anyway just to prove they would do it all along.

Border Collie

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The brainiac of the Pokémon party, the Border Collie, would be 100% psychic-type, zipping around the battlefield with insane speed and precision. Their intelligence would allow them to master moves like Calm Mind and Future Sight with ease. Need someone to calculate the opponent’s next three steps? This dog’s already ahead of you. They’d be the battle planner and the MVP rolled into one supercharged floof.

Doberman Pinscher

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Sleek, strong, and surprisingly elegant, the Doberman would be a Steel/Dark-type—fast, fierce, and full of silent menace. Their loyalty would make them the ultimate partner, always ready to shield their trainer and launch powerful counterattacks. Iron Tail and Night Slash? Easy. Their intimidating presence alone would cause opponents to reconsider showing up.

Akita

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Akitas are dignified, powerful, and naturally protective, making them the perfect Fighting/Ice-type. Their stoic presence on the battlefield would command respect, and their fierce loyalty would make them a steadfast protector in battle. Moves like Ice Fang and Revenge would come naturally. Think of them as the majestic samurai of your squad, silently judging your every decision—but still backing you up like a pro.

German Shepherd

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Reliable, tactical, and a born leader, the German Shepherd is your classic all-rounder. As a Fighting/electric type, they’d dominate battles with quick reflexes and calculated strikes. Thunder Fang? Check. Quick Attack? Naturally. They’re built for coordination, so double battles with this breed would be absolute chaos—for your opponent.

Pomeranian

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Don’t laugh—this puffball would be a Fairy/Fire-type with a Napolean complex and a killer sparkle. Tiny but explosive, a Pomeranian would master moves like Dazzling Gleam and Incinerate, delivering them with unexpected sass. They’d float through the battlefield on pure drama and glitter, probably barking the whole time. This is the type of Pokémon that wins fights and then demands snacks.

Rottweiler

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Heavy-hitting and unshakable, Rottweilers would easily be Dark/Fighting-types. These dogs are tanks with tactical instincts, perfect for brute force moves like Close Combat or Payback. They’d be the ones standing guard at the Pokémon Center, growling at Team Rocket without even blinking. You don’t just bring a Rottweiler into battle—you unleash one.

Papillon

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Graceful, alert, and deceptively clever, the Papillon would glide through battle as a Flying/Psychic-type. Don’t let the pretty ears fool you—these dogs are smart, fast, and unpredictable. They’d be masters of aerial moves like Air Slash and Tailwind, using charm and speed to outwit opponents. It’s the kind of Pokémon that looks cute while absolutely demolishing its enemies.

Chow Chow

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Fluffy yet mysterious, Chow Chows would definitely be Ice/Ghost-types. They move like ancient royalty and stare into your soul like they’ve seen things. Their slow, deliberate movements would be perfect for setting up status effects and haunting the battlefield with Curse and Shadow Ball. This dog doesn’t bark—it drifts ominously through battle like it’s floating on a cloud of intimidation.

Australian Cattle Dog

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Tough, scrappy, and clever, the Australian Cattle Dog is a Ground/Electric-type waiting to happen. Known for their problem-solving skills and agility, they’d thrive on moves like Volt Switch and Bulldoze. Built for chasing down any opponent who dares run, they’re relentless. You’d want one of these on your team just for the sheer mayhem they could unleash with a single growl.

Afghan Hound

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Regal and mysterious, Afghan Hounds would be Dragon/Fairy-types, bringing elegance and surprise attacks in equal measure. They’d probably glow during battle, just because they can. Moves like Moonblast and Dragon Pulse would suit their over-the-top flair. And let’s be honest—they’d look stunning doing it. Beauty and power in one flowing coat.

Boxer

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Energetic, goofy, and unexpectedly strategic, the Boxer would shine as a Normal/Fighting-type. Their spring-loaded energy would pair perfectly with moves like Bounce and Mach Punch. They’d be the team’s comic relief—until they land a knockout blow. You might underestimate them at first, but by the end of the fight, they’ll be dancing circles around the opposition.

Samoyed

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Last but definitely not least, the Samoyed would bring sparkle and strength as an Ice/Fairy-type. These cloud-shaped charmers would spread joy, freeze enemies, and probably smile the whole time. Moves like Blizzard and Charm would be their specialty. Who needs brute force when you can defeat enemies with fluff and radiant happiness?

The PokéBalls Aren’t Big Enough for This Much Awesome

MidJourney

These dog breeds weren’t just born to fetch—they were made to battle. With fierce loyalty, unique personalities, and enough attitude to rival any Gym Leader, they’d own a Pokémon arena or at least steal the spotlight. Whether you prefer cool and calm or wild and chaotic, there’s a pup here ready to be your ultimate teammate. Don’t expect them to stop chewing on your Pokédex any time soon—they’re powerful, proud, and possibly plotting their next evolution while napping on your shoe.

 

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