This cutie can be both your lap dog and exercise partner. These 'gentle giants', which were originally bred as working dogs, are an ideal choice for the first-time owner who wants a large, devoted, family dog. 10 Best Dog Breeds for First-Time Dog Owners. Shedding: Low Barking: Very Low Energy: High. These lovely dogs are magnificent but can be quite a handful to train which means they really are not the best choice for first-time dog owners. Bernedoodle. Bichon Frise. For a lower-maintenance coat, keep your Bichon's hair trimmed short. They’re eager to please and highly motivated by treats, which makes training them a breeze, especially if you start when they’re young. By: Ann Compton. If you're getting a new dog, you're going to need things like a leash, collar, and crate, so we've put together a list of supplies for new dog owners. Jenna Stregowski, RVT. These breeds will make any first-time dog owner feel like a pro. A rescue organization may be able to match you with the right companion. It takes a lot of work to care for puppies. Guardians by nature, Boxers are naturally protective of their families, especially children. The Bichon is a great dog for families with children or apartment living. Before bringing home the next adorable puppy you see, there are a few things to consider. Welcoming a dog into your life is one of the greatest joys on earth. These dogs do require some exercise, but they’re also known for being sweet and snuggly. Described as the comedian of the canine world, the Pug is one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners in apartments. Post . Your veterinarian will look out for your dog's health, educate you about your dog, and guide you through the world of dog ownership. Though young Boxers can be a little hyperactive, they are not difficult to train and they enjoy the attention during training. Like our No. The Cavalier needs basic training and responds to it well. Best Guard Dog Breeds for First Time Owners. While small, Pugs are sturdy dogs that have a great sense of humor and love to have fun and play games. If you lead a fairly active lifestyle, a Boxer could be for you. These dogs are “gentle giants,” Ellis says, adding that their “calm demeanor makes them perfect for small space living.”. This breed is small but not tiny and has a gentle demeanor. For these reasons, the cane Corso is one of the best guard dog breeds, though not for first-time dog owners. There are so many different dogs out there and it's hard to know how to choose the right one. Fortunately, that’s totally fine. If you struggle to pronounce your new dog’s name, you haven’t done enough research! When considering which breed is right for you, it's important to remember mixed-breed dogs. Email . Labs love to learn and can be trained to do almost anything. Best dog breeds for first-time owners 1# Boxer. Golden Retrievers are eager to please and love spending time with their families. They love to learn and can be trained to do a number of things. Here we list the most popular family dog breeds in Australia right now. In general, first-time owners should avoid dogs with unusual names unless they’ve got a good reason for choosing a Canaan dog, Dogue de Bordeaux, Basenji, or Vizsla. Labrador Retriever Labradors are athletic, playful, and one of the easiest dog breeds for a first-time dog owner. They are perfect family companions, are relatively low maintenance, friendly with all children and adults. The following constitutes answers from 218 veterinary professionals who were given a list of the most popular dog breeds and mixes. Home Dogs The 10 Best Dog Breeds for First Time Owners The 10 Best Dog Breeds for First Time Owners Becoming a dog owner for the first time is exciting, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. I have had two Bernese and can assure you with absolute certainty that there will never be a third! Goldens are one of the most popular breeds around because they’re such great dogs. The Bichon Frise is always happy and will make a great companion -- perfect any first time dog parent. Below you’ll find good dog breeds that can be easily trained and maintained by beginners. You’ve finally decided to take the plunge and bring home a dog – congratulations! We asked real dog owners at Blue Cross for their top tips and the things they wished they'd known when they first got their dogs. They love relaxing on the couch with you but are still active enough to keep up with the family. Best Dogs for First Time Owners There is likely not one perfect dog out there, but when you choose a purebred dog, you can reduce some of the guess work about what to expect. This medium-large dog is happy, loyal, affectionate, and active. Dogs who are highly sensitive, independent thinking, or assertive may be harder for a first-time dog parent to manage. Still, there are energetic dogs that are easy to live with. Huskies are not considered a great breed for first-time dog owners, since they need a lot of attention, exercise, and are very good as escaping and running away. If this sounds like too much, then perhaps an adult dog will be a better fit for you. She adds that they are very communicative dogs and will let you know when they want your attention. Each breed has its own characteristics but you must also remember that within breeds, there is variation. Consider the ideal age of your first dog. Yorkies have continuously growing hair that must be brushed and trimmed regularly. If you are looking for a lazy lap dog, then it's best to avoid high-energy dog breeds. They don't shed as much as many other dogs, so you won't have to clean up stray fur. Golden Retrievers have wonderful temperaments and are easy to train, making them an excellent choice for the first time dog owner. While each dog is different, there are general personality traits associated with dog breeds. The same goes for “primitive,” “independent,” or “strong-willed” dogs. Being a pet parent is a wonderful experience. Final Thoughts: Best Small Dogs for First Time Owners. Best Guard Dog For First Time Owner – All You Need to Know Humans have been domesticating dogs for over 14,000 years, these animals make incredibly loving and loyal companions that not only provide you with protection and company but are also capable of helping you in physical tasks as well. Related. Every item on this page was chosen by a Woman's Day editor. 6. Daily basic exercise is generally enough to keep your Pom happy. Any time you are bringing a new dog home, whether a puppy or an adult dog, it’s best to prepare ahead of time and get an idea of what to expect. For Dog People. 10 Best First-Time Dog Breeds A dedicated first-time dog owner will be happy with one of a multitude of breeds that suits her needs and activities. From their loyalty to their unconditional love, there's a reason why dogs are considered man's best friend. At his best, this is a smart, affable and moderately active dog who can excel in obedience, agility and being your best buddy. The Perro de Presa Canario is a calm breed, with a higher than average affection level and a protective spirit. Woman's Day participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. Before getting a dog, you need to make sure you can meet their 5 Welfare Needs. If you want a dog that can go running with you, choose an athletic dog with endurance. Deciding which dog is a good fit for you is a daunting task, and shouldn’t be based on looks alone. This breed is affectionate towards its owner and may even act protective around strangers. The Best Medium-Size Dogs for First Time Owners. If you want a dog that’s going to be no-nonsense, a poodle might be a good choice. There’s a big difference in dog breeds in these lists, but there’s also a huge difference in first time dog owners. This means you have to make sure you can provide everything they’ll need to be happy and healthy and, well, just be a dog! If you are new to dogs, it is easy to fall in love with the idea of a breed without fully understanding the commitments involved with dog ownership. Golden Retrievers are known for being affectionate, kind, family-oriented dogs, not to mention they’re super adorable. They tend to be pretty low-energy and like to lounge around the house, but it’s still important to make sure they get some exercise. If your favorite dog breed is not here, that’s perfectly fine! One of the breeds below might be perfect for you and your family. While every dog’s personality is different, some breeds might match up well with beginners. These top ten breed lists for first time dog owners have working dogs, sighthounds, toy dogs, herding dogs & designer breeds. But with great joy comes great responsibility, especially if you’re looking to adopt a puppy. And when you're ready to bring a furry friend home, Ellis says you should "consider checking out your local shelter." Well aware of his ancestral royalty he will greet you with dignity and pride, demanding that respect in turn. They’re outgoing dogs with a good deal of energy. Listed here are ten of the best dog breeds for first-time dog owners. But fear not – we’ve got you covered with a list of 10 of the best small dogs for first-time owners. If you’re willing to make room for a truly individual personality, the Pekingese may be for you. This dog is elegant, attentive, and generally quiet. Share It. However, you must be attentive to the grooming needs of this breed. Print . These one-of-a-kind dogs can make wonderful companions. ShutterStock. This breed has a curly coat that must be trimmed regularly and brushed carefully. The Papillon is a hardy little dog that enjoys a somewhat active lifestyle. Cavaliers can thrive in all kinds of households and tend to get along well with children of all ages. Fortunately, this coat is not as high-maintenance as it looks. They have a mischievously hedonistic streak, which makes them almost seem catlike. Not only are they intelligent and clever, but also calm. Are you a first time owner thinking of getting your first dog? The breed does need regular brushing to keep its coat free of tangles and mats. The ancient Shih Tzu is a Chinese dog breed developed well over 1,000 years ago in ancient China. You get to welcome a furry friend into your life who you can care for and who will love you unconditionally. “Labrador Retrievers are known for their loyalty and sweet, easygoing nature,” Ellis says, which makes them a great family pet. Here we have top 10 best dogs for beginners and first-time dog owners, in terms of easy to manage and less demanding. Without further fluff, here are 15 of the best dog breeds for first time owners: 1. The Best Dogs for First-Time Owners What are the best dogs for first-time owners? Surprisingly enough, they make some of the best watchdogs in the world. Find a veterinarian you love with a great staff and team. “A nice game of indoor fetch or scent work will leave them tired while you are off for the day with work and errands,” Ellis says. 3. This breed is an all-around great companion. Although boxers are quite hyperactive, they’re pretty easy to train (even for the first time dog owner.) This breed of dog really isn’t the best option for a first time dog owner. Thinking about getting your first dog? The Golden Retriever is the quintessential family dog. Poodles. Workers can help you find a dog with the traits you desire. King Charles Cavs do well at acclimating to new situations and locations, according to Ellis, which means they’ll easily adapt to your family and feel at home in no time. Probably one of the most popular dog breeds out there right now, Golden Retrievers are perfect for those owners just starting to get used to doggy life.They’ve got so many of the good parts of owning a dog – affection, companionship, energy – while also being incredibly gentle and easily trainable. The Cavalier's moderate energy level means basic daily exercise is typically enough to maintain health. It doesn’t feel like a natural way to clump dogs together. The best therapy dogs can really brighten a room and help those around them to feel more peaceful. Small dogs are often the best choice if you leave in an apartment and a dog like a … There isn’t a “one size fits all” perfect breed for everyone. What kind of cat should you get if you want a cuddly, affectionate, friendly pet? Daily basic exercise is enough to keep this breed happy and healthy. There are hundreds of dog breeds out there. This happy, friendly and adaptable dog breed can do well in a variety of households. Make sure you can provide enough exercise for your new dog. You may actually prefer a lower-maintenance dog breed as your first one. A first time dog owner whose hobbies are jogging and bicycling is going to do better with a much different dog than the first time dog owner who enjoys reading the paper & watching hours of television each night. One of the first places you take your new dog is to see the vet. Tweet . Big and fluffy, the Bernedoodle is one of the most loving companion dogs with a goofy personality. Despite a medium-length coat, this dog's grooming needs are basic. 35. There are even the best apartment dogs to fit that lifestyle better. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. it's important to note that some breeds tend to be better for inexperienced owners than others, and one of the qualities new dog owners often look at is size.. One of the best dogs for first time owners, the Bichon Frise possesses a unique lineup of traits and are actually quite unusual dogs. Owners of a Shih Tzu will often experience a little mischief as these dogs tend to be overly playful.However, they’re wonderful family dogs. The Poodle is very adaptable to its environment and can do very well in a variety of households, including those with children. Are you a first time owner thinking of getting your first dog? Here, we round up the 15 best cat breeds for domesticated living. TOP 10 BEST DOG BREEDS FOR FIRST TIME OWNERS! Labrador Retriever. Before you take home the next adorable puppy you see, there are a few things to consider. They need housetraining, socialization, obedience training, and frequent vet visits. 3. The Yorkie will be your friend for life. As a first time dog owner, if you have the time getting a dog as a puppy will be a great experience but if not an adult dog may be the better option. Your dog will be introduced to a new home and new owners - it's a lot to take in. By adopting a mixed-breed dog, you are also helping to reduce pet overpopulation in shelters. Are you new to the dog world and looking to adopt a pooch in need of a good home? We’ve created a Top 10 list of dogs for first-time owners – take a look at these breeds perfect for first timers. Every dog needs a great vet! If you’re looking for a pup who’s a bit more low-key, an affenpinscher might be a good choice. it's important to note that some breeds tend to be better for inexperienced owners than others, and one of the qualities new dog owners often look at is size.. If you have the time and budget for regular groomer visits, it will be fairly simple to keep your Yorkie in good condition. “They enjoy spending time with their family members, including other pets,” she says. Regular brushing is important to avoid tangles in the hair. A Rottweiler is a very large dog and for a first time dog owner it’s probably best avoided. Daily walks are great for this breed. 10. Learn More → Choosing your first dog is an important decision requiring planning and research. Labrador Retrievers make for a great first-time beginner dog. [mnleft] The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular and recognizable medium-large dog breeds. Labs also tend to love all food and can easily become overweight if you are not careful. The 8 Best Cat Breeds For First-Time Owners. They are great with children and very attached to their owner. 6. Labrador Retriever Image: Pixabay. Bichons are fairly easy to train and adapt well to any lifestyle. Not a good choice for first-time owners. There are so many different dogs that it is difficult to know how to choose the right one. These are the best dog breeds ranked on categories such as personality, health, and popularity. By: Ann Compton. They are excellent with children of all ages. They do have a lot of energy, though, so make sure you have plenty of time to schedule in play with them. The Yorkie has a moderate energy level and only needs basic exercise. Don't let the diminutive frame of this dog fool you. You may have had a dog as a child but being a pet parent for the first time is a whole different level of responsibility. Consider how much extra time you have to meet these needs. Conclusion. As a pet owner, you should be loving to your pet and take great care of it. Golden Retrievers are family favorites. “Their personality and intelligence make them easy to train and even easier to love,” Ellis says. This breed needs plenty of exercise and a strong foundation of training. The official national dog of France, Poodles of all varieties (i.e., standard, miniature, or toy) make great, low-maintenance pets for first-time dog owners. This will help strengthen the bond between you and lay down boundaries. Golden Retriever. "Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs only require an average amount of exercise, around an hour a day, and will happily spend time exploring their own garden or outdoor space." Golden Retriever. They are actually one of the most trainable dog breeds, which is another reason why they are recommended for first-time dog owners. Fortunately, they respond well to consistent, positive training and will thrive because of it. Each of these dogs has their own set of unique qualities, but they are all friendly and easy going and would make fantastic first dogs. Kelsey Hurwitz is the assistant editor of WomansDay.com, and covers entertainment, holidays, pets, and good news. The Poodle needs to be groomed regularly to maintain the curly, continuously growing coat. With so many dogs ending up in shelters each year, Pet Insurance Australia strongly advises that all pet owners research their intended breed, before purchase. Here are the best dogs for first-time owners. Poms need basic training to provide structure and boundaries. 1. We know the choice may seem overwhelming, so we’ve put together a list of some breeds that are great for first-time dog owners. If you’re a laid back person who would rather spend your day snuggled up on the couch than bouncing from place to place, a Chinese crested might be your soulmate. 1. Here’s out Top 10 dogs for first-time owners. Searching for your first-ever dog? Things to Consider When Choosing one of the Best Dog Breeds for First time Owners. Just like people, dogs are individuals and can differ greatly in personalities and needs. Fortunately, they only have minor grooming needs. Treeing Walker Coonhound. These traits can help you select a dog that fits your family and household. All are very intelligent dogs that respond well to training. However, they’re also intensely loyal and are all about family. They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Pet owners often worry whether they can adopt a dog when living in an apartment. Labs thrive in active households that can provide plenty of exercise and training. The Best Dogs for First-Time Owners How to Care for Your Dog's Basic Needs The Spruce Pets. The ten breeds on our list require less “formal introduction time” than the average dog. Read through to get to know them better; perhaps your new best friend is waiting! Brush your Lab regularly to minimize shedding. “They’re highly intelligent and eager to please.” They also don’t shed, which makes them great for people with allergies. See more guides to your dogs health, nutrition, training and behavioral problems on PeanutPaws.com You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io, 33 Small Dog Breeds That Are Perfect For Any Home, 25+ Dogs That Don't Shed All Over Your House, A Massive Dog Food Recall Has Been Issued, Everything to Know About Queen Elizabeth's Corgis, How To Adopt A Dog & Gain A Forever Friend. Don't expect a low maintenance dog from the very first day you adopt! The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a sweet affectionate dog with a puppy-like appearance. Bringing a dog into your family for the first time is a big deal, and we couldn't be more excited for you. If you are looking for a lazy lap dog, then it's best to avoid high-energy dog breeds. Training, exercise, and grooming are necessary for all dogs, but the needs of a mixed-breed dog will vary based on its unique makeup. There's a lot you need to know to make things go smoothly with your new friend. These relaxed dogs are the perfect snuggle companion, known for being affectionate, kind, family-oriented dogs, This Dog Goes NUTS When He Sees Rain for the First Time, For the First Time Ever, Award Meant for Dogs Went to This Heroic Cat, 25 Father’s Day Gifts For First-Time Dads, Essential Pet Supplies for New Dog Owners, Blind Mom-To-Be 'Sees' Baby For The First Time. If you’re a social butterfly looking for a dog to take on the town, a Boston Terrier might be a good breed. Each of these breeds are known for being easy going and easy to train. That being said, if you’re a new dog owner, this breed is probably best avoided. This breed is better with gentle older kids but can adapt to many situations. Consider a Great Dane. Getting your first dog can be an exhilarating and intimidating process all at the same time. TOP 10 BEST DOG BREEDS FOR FIRST TIME OWNERS! Fortunately, each dog breed has a relatively predictable energy level, size, appearance, and grooming needs. If you love small dogs and are planning to become a dog parent for the first time – consider getting one of the small dogs from this list. Dog experts have previously raised a few concerns about apartment dogs: Explain that you will be a first-time owner. Brittany, a popular hunting dog, is one of the best dog breeds for first time owners who love exercise and are quite the athlete. Pekingese . Ellis describes Bichons as “the total package” because they’re smart, hypoallergenic, and usually pretty quiet. They are playful, outgoing, low-maintenance, and easy to train – all characteristics that make this breed great for new dog owners. Goldens are smart and adaptable dogs that can thrive in most households. Being a first-time dog owner can be challenging, but a little easier if you get a dog that's easier to care for. Virtual Babysitting Is Winning Over Parents, Why You Have Vivid Dreams During Quarantine, The Best Indoor Plants to Liven Up Your Home, This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. That way you’ll get a companion like no other! Looking for a lovable dog whose heart is just as big as its body? Therapy dogs are generally used to calm down other people, not the owner of the dog. Any first-time dog owner can be successful with any dog breed, as long as they are committed. “Shih Tzus are a small breed with a big heart,” Ellis says. Regular brushing is generally all you need to keep your Pom looking good. Guard dogs have a strong instinct to protect and also tend to be imposing and intimidating. Talk to the volunteers and employees about the temperaments and needs of their adoptable dogs. Size of Living space. In France, Poodles are often referred to as the “duck dog” since the breed was originally used as retrievers in duck hunting in Germany. What Are the Best Dogs For Beginners? The breed is easy to train and requires only moderate grooming. This is a loyal dog that forms a close bond with family. Adopting and taking care of a pet is an obligation, but also the most fulfilling thing you can do. Environments and are all about family they need housetraining, socialization, obedience training, and grooming are... 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