The best dog Pokémon in Pokémon GO are ranked here based on their maximum Combat Power, base stats, type advantages, and evolution potential, using a fan-based definition of what qualifies as a "dog" Pokémon. This list helps you decide which canine-like creatures are worth catching and powering up for battle in the mobile game, drawing from the same community standards used in many mobile game tier lists.
20 best dog pokémon in pokémon go, ranked
This ranking considers each Pokémon's max CP, base stats, type matchups, and whether its evolutionary line offers a significant power boost. The definition of "dog" Pokémon is based on fan consensus and design inspiration, not an official game classification.
20. Snubbull
With a max CP of 1,237, Snubbull is a pure Fairy type whose primary value is as a precursor to the stronger Granbull. Its pug-like design divides opinion, but evolving it for 50 candies yields a much more capable fighter.
19. Luxio
Luxio reaches a max CP of 1,486 as an Electric type that serves mainly as a transitional evolution between Shinx and the powerful Luxray. It won't dominate battles but provides a necessary stepping stone for 100 candies.
18. Electrike
Electrike has a max CP of 965 and is an Electric type that works as a decent starter Pokémon. Most players keep it only to evolve into Manectric for 50 candies.
17. Shinx
Shinx has a max CP of 876 and is an Electric type that makes a cute addition to a starting team. Its real value lies in its evolutionary line, which leads to the much stronger Luxray. Shinx is mostly light blue with black hind legs and yellow markings.
16. Granbull
Granbull reaches a max CP of 2,552 as a pure Fairy type with useful resistances to Fighting, Bug, Dark, and Dragon types. This bulldog-like Pokémon is a decent mid-tier fighter and easy to obtain by evolving Snubbull. Granbull is bright pink and quite timid.
15. Manectric
With a max CP of 2,340, Manectric is an Electric type that gains significant potential through its Mega Evolution, which boosts its CP to 3,580. It evolves from Electrike for 50 candies. Manectric has a monkey-like face but is a dog Pokémon.
14. Herdier
Herdier has a max CP of 1,583 as a Normal type that serves as a solid transitional Pokémon on the way to the much stronger Stoutland. It evolves from Lillipup and is 100 candies away from its final form.
13. Luxray
Luxray reaches a max CP of 2,888 as a powerful pure Electric type with high attack stats. Its striking design and strong battle performance make it a solid contender in many matchups.
12. Raikou
Raikou has a max CP of 3,452 as a legendary Electric type with excellent stats. Its tiger-like design places it lower on a "dog" list, but its battle power is undeniable. Raikou first appeared on Pokémon Go on August 31, 2017.
11. Riolu
Riolu has a max CP of 993 as a Fighting/Steel baby Pokémon. Its sole high-ranking purpose is evolving into the top-tier Lucario for 50 candies.
10. Absol
Absol reaches a max CP of 2,526 as a pure Dark type with a very high attack stat of 246. This glass cannon can deal heavy damage but has low defense, making it a risky but rewarding mid-tier choice.
9. Houndour
Houndour has a max CP of 1,234 as a Dark/Fire dual-type whose value lies in its 50-candy evolution into the stronger Houndoom. It serves as the dark counterpart to Growlithe.
8. Growlithe
Growlithe reaches a max CP of 1,243 as a classic Fire type that is a must-catch for its 50-candy evolution into the powerhouse Arcanine. This loyal canine has been a series staple since the first generation.
7. Houndoom
Houndoom has a max CP of 2,635 as a Dark/Fire dual-type with a Mega Evolution available. Its devilish design and great offensive type coverage make it a strong mid-tier option. Houndoom debuted in Pokémon Gold and Silver.
6. Stoutland
Stoutland reaches a max CP of 2,827 as a pure Normal type with balanced stats. It is surprisingly strong and easy to obtain through evolution from Lillipup and Herdier. Stoutland shares a max CP of 2,827 with Mr. Rime, the final evolution of Mr. Mime.
5. Lucario
Lucario has a max CP of 2,703 as a popular Fighting/Steel type with numerous resistances and high attack. This versatile and powerful Pokémon is a worthy addition to any team. Lucario takes double damage against fire, ground, and fighting type.
4. Suicune
Suicune reaches a max CP of 2,983 as a legendary Water type with exceptional defense and stamina. Its bulky and resilient nature makes it a reliable fighter in prolonged battles. Suicune was the featured Pokémon in Pokémon Crystal's box art and storyline.
3. Arcanine
Arcanine has a max CP of 3,029 as a classic and powerful Fire type that is a staple powerhouse on many teams. It evolves from Growlithe and remains one of the most iconic dog Pokémon in the series. Arcanine is the 59th in the original 151-member Pokédex.
2. Lillipup
Lillipup reaches a max CP of 915 as a Normal type ranked high not for its own strength but for its cute design and evolution into the powerful Stoutland. This Yorkshire Terrier-inspired Pokémon is intelligent and brave despite being weak as a pup. Lillipup is probably based on the Yorkshire Terrier.
1. Entei
Entei has a max CP of 3,473 as a legendary Fire type with the highest CP on this list, making it the strongest "dog" Pokémon available. This member of the legendary beast trio has a tragic backstory and embodies raw fire-type power. Entei forms a trio with the water-type Suicune and electric-type Raikou as the three legendary dog Pokémon. Entei has a tragic backstory of coming back from the dead before being given powers by Ho-Oh.
Top 10 dog pokémon by max cp
For trainers focused purely on combat potential, here are the top 10 dog Pokémon ranked strictly by their maximum Combat Power:
- Entei, 3,473 CP
- Raikou, 3,452 CP
- Arcanine, 3,029 CP
- Suicune, 2,983 CP
- Luxray, 2,888 CP
- Stoutland, 2,827 CP
- Lucario, 2,703 CP
- Houndoom, 2,635 CP
- Granbull, 2,552 CP
- Absol, 2,526 CP
Why these pokémon are considered dogs
This list uses a fan-based definition of "dog" Pokémon based on design inspirations from real-world canines. Pokémon like Eevee and its evolutions were excluded because they are considered cat-like. Zigzagoon and its line were inspired by the Japanese raccoon dog, an animal closer to badgers and raccoons than dogs. Mightyena and Poochyena were excluded because they are based on hyenas, not dogs. Fox-like Pokémon such as Ninetales and Delphox were also left out after debate on canid classifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What devices support Pokémon GO?
Pokémon GO requires an iPhone 6s or above running iOS 15 or later, or an Android device running Android 9 or above with at least 2 GB of RAM. A strong internet connection, GPS, and Location Services are also required.
Are there any devices that cannot play Pokémon GO?
Jailbroken iPhones and rooted Android devices are not supported. The app is also not optimized for tablets, and the preferred Android resolution is 720 × 1280 pixels.
Do I need a special accessory to play?
No, the game works without accessories. However, certain Bluetooth accessories like the Pokémon GO Plus + require an iPhone 7 or above to function.
Will more dog Pokémon be added to Pokémon GO in the future?
Yes, Pokémon GO continues to add new generations over time. Fan-favorite dog Pokémon like Rockruff, Furfrou, Zacian, and Zamazenta are expected to eventually appear in the game.
Why are Eevee and its evolutions not on this list?
Eevee and its evolutions are classified as cat-like Pokémon in fan communities, not dog-like. This classification also excludes Zigzagoon, Poochyena, Mightyena, and fox-based Pokémon like Ninetales.
For the wider topic, see mobile game tier lists.
