Are you considering getting a dog but need to know which breed best fits your lifestyle? Knowing which breed is best for you if you’re a first-time dog owner can be tricky. There are so many different kinds of dogs, each with its personality and set of needs. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and give tips on choosing the right one for your family.
Best Dog Breeds for First Time Owners
So, what are good dogs for first-time dog owners? Now that you know what to consider when preparing for a pet let’s look at some of the best dog breeds for first-time owners.
Labrador Retriever
They are tame and rarely aggressive, making them popular.
Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, and for a good reason. They’re brilliant, loyal, and easy to train, making them an excellent choice for first-time pet owners. Labradors have an even temperament, meaning they rarely bark or display aggression toward other animals or people.
Their lack of aggression, intelligence, and playful nature make them the ideal family dog, the best dog breed for a first-time owner.
Poodle
Poodles are the cutest and lovable, look at this one.
Poodles are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. This breed is brilliant, friendly, and loyal to its masters. They are also good with children and very easy to train.
Poodles come in various sizes and colors, such as standard, miniature, toy, parti, and phantom poodles. As a result, they can fit into any living environment.
Pug
So lovable, and looks as if always begging for attention.
Pugs are another excellent choice for first-time pet owners; many consider them the best dog for first-time owners. These small dogs are very loving and loyal and don’t require as much exercise as some larger breeds. Pugs love people, making them great companions and they tend to get along well with other pets.
They also have low grooming needs, making them easy to look after. Pugs may be prone to snoring and breathing problems, so potential owners should research their health risks before getting a pug.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
A cavalier is a supporter of King Charles, hence the name.
One of the best dogs for first-time pet owners is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a loyal, friendly, loving dog breed perfect for first-time owners. It’s an ideal size for any home, as it doesn’t require much space to move around. They have very calm temperaments, making them great family dogs as they get along well with children.
Cavaliers also don’t require much exercise, so this is the perfect breed if you lead a busy lifestyle. Cavaliers are also very adaptable and can easily adjust to different climates and surroundings. They will be happy and content in their new home if they have plenty of love and attention. Cavaliers can live happily for up to 15 years with suitable companionship and care.
Boxer
You want to train outside? You can take him anywhere.
Boxer dogs are loyal, energetic, and intelligent. They make great family pets, making them one of the best dogs for first-time dog owners. Boxers love to play indoors or outdoors, and they’re easy to train. They tend to quickly form strong bonds with their owners and are very protective of them and their families.
Boxers need lots of regular exercise and mental stimulation, so they may not be the best choice for those working long hours or having small living spaces. They also tend to bark often, which can become annoying if not addressed early.
Bulldog
This one needs some care and extensive grooming.
Bulldog is one of the most popular dog breeds for first-time owners. Bulldogs are affectionate and loyal and don’t require much daily exercise. They have a gentle demeanor and will form strong bonds with their owners. Bulldogs can be aloof with strangers but usually, accept them quickly once they’re accustomed to them.
They have low grooming needs, making them great for those who need more time or budget to keep up with an extensive grooming routine. Bulldogs are also adaptable and can get along well in apartments.
Golden Retriever
Very alert and intelligent, this playful dog.
Golden Retriever is an excellent choice for first-time dog owners, one of the best first-time dogs for families. They are loyal, obedient, and intelligent, making them ideal family pets. Golden Retrievers are also very friendly and enjoy spending time with their owners.
Golden Retrievers make excellent watchdogs, as they bark to alert their owners when something is amiss. No wonder many consider these dogs good for novice owners. They do best in a loving home with plenty of attention and affection from their owners, so a Golden Retriever might be a perfect choice if you’re looking for a dog to form a strong bond with you.
German Shepherd Dog
Big and imposing, but this one is very obedient.
German Shepherd Dog is one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. This breed is brilliant, loyal, and courageous. They have an innate protective instinct, making them great guard dogs and an excellent choice for families with children.
German Shepherds require plenty of physical and mental exercise to keep them happy and healthy, so an active lifestyle is a must if you own one of these dogs. German Shepherds are also known for their obedience and trainability, so if you are looking for the best first-time dog breeds that you can teach to obey commands, this is the breed for you.
Yorkshire Terrier
Even those not into dogs will find them lovable.
They have a long life expectancy of 14-16 years, making them a great addition to any family.
Yorkshire Terriers are small in size, so they don’t need much space to live in, and are known for being quiet; they won’t disturb your neighbors. They need regular grooming to keep their coats shiny and free of tangles, but other than that, they don’t require much care. All of it makes it ideal, a very good starter dog.
Yorkshire Terriers have a lot of energy and love to play, so they will need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. One of the best easy going dogs for first-time owners.
Cockapoo
They are playful, as evidenced by this one.
This hybrid dog combines elements of two popular breeds – the Cocker Spaniel and Poodle – so it has inherited some of the best of both worlds. They have a long lifespan of 10-15 years and are known for being easy to train and friendly.
They require regular grooming but don’t need much exercise – making them an excellent choice for families with busy lifestyles. Cockapoos are good around children and other pets, making them an excellent addition to any family.
Greyhound
Elegant and majestic, they do not want to spend their time running and jumping.
Greyhounds are good breeds for first-time dog owners. They are typically low-energy and low-maintenance, making them perfect for those who may not have the time or space to provide more strenuous exercise. Greyhounds can also be quite affectionate and loyal, providing companionship and comfort.
With their mild temperament and low grooming needs, Greyhounds make great family pets. They do best in homes with other animals and plenty of space to run. Once they’re settled, Greyhounds can be pretty content lounging around the house all day.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
If you want a companion to your walking, you can never go wrong with this one.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is an intelligent and loyal breed that is great for first-time owners. Corgis are incredibly easy to train and tend to bond quickly with their owners, making them an ideal pet for those just starting.
They require a lot of exercise, but they can usually get it from playing in the backyard or taking short walks around the neighborhood. As such, they are good dogs for first-time owners in strolling and walking.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis do best in homes where they can get plenty of attention and love, as they tend to form strong bonds with their owners.
Dachshund
This dog does not occupy much space.
Dachshunds are among the easiest dogs for first-time owners. They’re small, so their exercise and food needs don’t require too much commitment or money. Plus, they have an adventurous side that makes them fun to be around! Dachshunds come in three varieties—smooth-haired, wire-haired, and long-haired—all of which have their personalities.
They tend to be loyal, spunky, and intelligent, making them ideal pets for people just starting with dog ownership. Health-wise, the breed is prone to a few diseases but can live up to fifteen years with proper care and diet. For those looking for a smaller lapdog, the Dachshund might be the perfect fit!
Havanese
Small but energetic, they require much grooming.
Havanese dogs are popular dog breeds for first-time owners due to their friendly, loving, and intelligent temperaments. They are also tiny, making them great apartment dogs or even just suitable for those looking to have an indoor pup. Havanese are incredibly loyal little dogs and tend to form strong bonds with their owner.
They get along well with other pets and children, making them ideal family pets. Grooming can be time-consuming with a Havanese as they have long coats that require regular maintenance to look neat.
They are also quite active dogs and require daily exercise to keep them healthy and happy. Although they may be small in stature, they’re big in personality!
Maltese
This one could be the real definition of the word “pet.”
A Maltese dog could be the best pets for first-time owners. They are small, friendly, and focus much attention on their humans. Malteses do not need much outside exercise and are willing to take leisurely walks around the block or play in the yard.
As they age, they remain active but do not require vigorous workouts, as other breeds may need. That makes them perfect for apartment dwellers or owners with little time to exercise. They are also easy to maintain and groom.
List of Dog Breeds that not recommended for First Time Dog Owners
– Rottweiler
– Doberman Pinscher
– Pit Bull Terrier
– Husky
– Bullmastiff
– Chow Chow
– Akita
– Great Dane
– Presa Canario
They are great dog breeds because they are loyal, loving companions, but they often require experienced dog owners dedicated to training and socialization. They may have a strong prey drive and aggressive tendencies that could make them difficult for first-time dog owners to manage.
If you’re considering one of these breeds, you must research and consult an experienced trainer or behaviorist who can help you choose the best dog for your lifestyle.
Preparations Needed Before Buying a Dog
Before you bring a pup into your home, you must ensure you’re well prepared. You should consider what kind of lifestyle the dog will need and whether or not you can provide it. Here are a few questions to answer:
- Are you willing to take on daily walks?
- Are there other pets in the house that may need special attention?
- Is your budget able to cover veterinary expenses?
These are all essential questions you should answer before getting a dog. Also, take some time to decide which breed is ideal for your lifestyle. Some dogs require more exercise and attention than others, while some need more space or may be prone to specific illnesses or behavioral issues. It’s essential to do your research beforehand to make an informed decision.
Looking for the best dog breeds for beginners need not be complicated. Here is a checklist you need to consider before deciding what breed to buy:
Confirm that you have enough space for a dog
If you need more space for a dog, take measurements of your home. You’ll need to factor in the dog’s size and enough space for food, water bowls, toys, and a comfortable place to sleep. If your home is on the small side, consider breeds that don’t require a lot of space.
Resolve any allergies before getting a dog
Resolving them before getting a dog is essential if you want the best dog for a novice owner. Allergies can flare up when you’re around a pet, so it’s best to get them under control before bringing a new furry friend into your home.
Set aside time each day to walk and exercise your dog
If you’re a first-time dog owner, setting aside time daily to walk and exercise your dog is essential. Not only is it good for their physical health, but it’s also an excellent way to get some fresh air and socialize with other dogs.
Make sure your house is puppy-proofed
If you’re considering getting a dog, be sure to puppy-proof your house before bringing your new best friend home. Puppies are curious and can get into trouble quickly if left alone. Be sure to remove any poisonous plants from your home, put electrical cords up out of their reach, and block off any areas of the house that you don’t want them to explore.
Other Considerations
When choosing the best dog breed for first-time owners, consider the following factors: size, shedding, energy levels, and temperament.
Larger breeds require more space and can be challenging for novice pet owners. Smaller dogs may require less exercise but may also be more prone to barking and turning destructive if not given adequate attention.
Also, consider the amount of shedding common in each breed and make sure you’re comfortable with the level of maintenance that comes along with that. Some breeds are known for being calm and easygoing, while others have a lot of energy and require regular exercise.
It will be best if you also consider the cost and expenses of ownership. Different breeds have different vet care costs that vary in frequency and amount. Please do your research before deciding on a specific breed, as some may require more diligence than others regarding regular check-ups and grooming.
Lastly, look into the training needs of the breed. All dogs need a certain amount of training, but some breeds may require more than others. You’ll want to be sure that you are comfortable and able to provide the necessary socialization skills for your pet. Having them in mind, you can have the easiest dog for first-time owners.
Once you’ve figured out the type of dog that would suit your lifestyle best, it’s time to start researching specific breeds.
Final Thoughts
Don’t hesitate to contact local animal shelters or rescue groups for advice and information. They can help you find the best puppies for first-time dog owners and guide you. With time and patience, you’ll soon find the perfect pal who will bring joy to your home for years to come.