Five Dog Breeds That Are Good for First-Time Pet Parents
One of the most exciting and memorable experiences in life for any dog person is bringing home their very first dog. But as memorably exciting as the experience can be, it’s important to make sure to select the right breed if you’ve never owned a dog before, as many breeds (typically those with an aloof nature or breed-specific quirks) require care from a seasoned, expert-level canine commander.
The good news is that there are just as many breeds, if not more, that can be the perfect fit for the first-time pet parent.
Here’s a look into five breeds suitable for rookie dog owners, though it is important to do your own research and acquire a dog only from a reputable breeder to ensure that you end up with the right individual dog for you.
Labrador Retriever
Hardly any breed says, “I’m an All-American Family Dog” quite like the Labrador Retriever. There’s a reason this purebred has been one of the most popular breeds (if not the most popular breed) in the nation for decades. Labs are one of the best choices for families of all types, especially those looking for a loyal and affectionate breed that gets along well with small children. This is an adaptable dog that can thrive in just about any environment. However, with the high energy level and demand for exercise that they bring to the table, it’s probably best to avoid keeping a Lab in an apartment or a small dwelling unless you can provide multiple hours of exercise and enrichment daily. For active people, especially those who enjoy water activities, this breed can be a perfect option.
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is another suitable option for singles, couples, and families with small children because of its playful, affectionate personality and its eagerness to please and perform for their owners. It should be noted, though, that this breed absolutely needs an active household because of its need for a large amount of daily exercise and mental stimulation. But if you’re someone who is looking for a jogging or hiking buddy, has an interest in dog sports (especially Dock Diving since this breed loves the water) or wants a dog that can learn hundreds of tricks, the Golden could just be the light of your life.
Greyhound
Greyhounds are known for their high-level speed that can reach up to 45 miles per hour at their fastest. Yet despite the way they can turn on the jets when they want to, this is not an overly energetic dog that enjoys aimlessly racing around. (That is, of course, unless it is out Lure Coursing.) This sighthound’s low-maintenance coat (be prepared for some shedding, though) and docile nature has made it a solid choice for many seniors and empty-nesters. The breed is an affectionate, loyal companion that is remarkably intelligent and eager to please. The Greyhound typically gets along well in most family environments, although it should be noted they generally have a high prey drive and may not get along reliably with all small animals.
Shih Tzu
Looking for the perfect apartment companion? The Shih Tzu can thrive even in the smallest of living quarters, and this lively and alert breed does not require a large amount of exercise. Their small size makes these Toy dogs convenient to take just about any place. They’re easy travelers, though they’re just as happy to hang around the house with you and watch television. Other perks of having a Shih Tzu (or two) as a roommate include the fact they don’t tend to bark excessively and their shedding is generally kept to a minimum. However, make sure to tend to the breed’s long, silky coat with regular brushing to avoid tangling and matting. On a dog with a naturally long coat, it’s recommended to brush the hair at least once a day.
Poodle
The ever-popular Poodle conveniently comes in three different sizes—Toy, Miniature, and Standard. This means there’s a variety for just about everyone, regardless of your size preference or living situation. This iconic purebred also come in a plethora of colors, including white, grey, black, brown, and even parti-color (though this coloration is not acceptable for the show ring). The Poodle is arguably the most intelligent dog breed on the planet, running neck-and-neck with the Border Collie for the title. And when these curly-coated canines are brought up correctly from puppyhood, they tend to make great family dogs in nearly any environment.
Contrary to popular belief, Poodles do shed their clipped and coiffed coats, but they do so very lightly and are among the best options for people who are sensitive to dog hair and pet dander.