Best Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners: Top 10 List

You’ve been thinking about adopting a dog for the longest time. You’ve created a list with the pros and cons of pet ownership. Now it’s time to pull the trigger and get a dog. What are the best dog breeds for first-time owners?

With so many different dog breeds out there, it can be overwhelming to narrow your choice down to just one. Some are playful and energetic, while others are calm and cuddly. If you’ve never owned a dog before, it’s best to stick with a highly-trainable, relatively calm breed that won’t leave you stressed out and overburdened. Here are our top 10 breeds for first-time dog owners.

1. Labrador Retriever

• Temperament: Friendly, outgoing, and patient.
• Size: Medium to large (55-80 lbs).

Labrador Retrievers are known for their gentle nature, which is why they make great companions for kids. They are also easy to train because of their amazing intelligence. Labs come in three colors, usually — black, chocolate and yellow. Usually, Labs live between 10 and 12 years.

2. Golden Retriever

• Temperament: Loyal, intelligent, and friendly.
• Size: Medium to large (55-75 lbs).

Golden Retrievers are some of the best dogs to have if you are a first-time owner, a person with children or a older person. Why? Because they are highly trainable and affectionate. Not only that, they are also quite intelligent and friendly. In terms of lifespan, Golden Retrievers live up to 10 to 12 years.

3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

• Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, and adaptable.
• Size: Small (13-18 lbs).

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an easy-going dog. They make excellent companions, which means that first time owners are going to be happy to have that playful pup around them. they are perfect for those that live in smaller living spaces. Typically these dogs live up to 9 to 14 years.

4. Pug

• Temperament: Charming, playful, and adaptable.
• Size: Small (14-18 lbs).

Coming in several callers including black, fawn, and apricot, pugs are a lovable dog. they are on the smaller side, which means that if you live in an apartment, they will do great there. Pugs have a loving and sociable nature and are relatively low-maintenance. They typically live up to 12 to 15 years.

5. Shih Tzu

• Temperament: Friendly, lively, and affectionate.
• Size: Small (9-16 lbs).

Shih Tzus are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, which means that this dog will be a playful companion throughout the day. They are friendly dogs, too — perfect for those that have children. These small dogs typically live up to 10 to 16 years.

6. Bichon Frise

• Temperament: Cheerful, playful, and gentle.
• Size: Small (12-18 lbs).

Bichon Frises are cheerful dogs that are gentle, perfect for those first time owners who have children. If you’re worried about training, don’t fret because these dogs are easy to train. They are also hypoallergenic, which is ideal if you are allergic to dogs. The Bichon Frise typically lives up to 12 to 15 years.

7. Beagle

• Temperament: Curious, friendly, and energetic.
• Size: Small to medium (20-30 lbs).

Beagles are friendly dogs — perfect for first time owners. They are also active dogs, which means that if you are an outdoorsy person, you will get along with the Beagle just fine. If you have children, Beagles will be good with them, too. These medium to small sized dogs typically live up to 12 to 15 years.

8. Cocker Spaniel

• Temperament: Gentle, smart, and affectionate.
• Size: Medium (20-30 lbs).

Cocker spaniels are medium sized dogs that are good in limited spaces like apartments, but also good in larger spaces. They are friendly dogs, no one for their loving nature and good temperament — a plus for first time owners who are nervous about getting a dog. Typically, Cocker Spaniels live up to 11 to 12 years.

9. Poodle (Miniature or Toy)

• Temperament: Intelligent, active, and trainable.
• Size: Small (4-15 lbs).

There are various types of poodles — from miniature to toy to medium sized ones. The smaller ones are perfect for first-time owners living in apartments. They are also adaptable dogs and highly trainable — another plus for first-time owners. These hypoallergenic dogs typically live up to 12 to 15 years.

10. French Bulldog

• Temperament: Adaptable, playful, and affectionate.
• Size: Small (16-28 lbs).

French Bulldogs are low energy, which means that if you live in an apartment, it will be quite ideal. They are also loving and affectionate, something important if you want cuddles or you have kids. These funny looking dogs typically live up to 10 to 12 years.

Factors To Consider When Getting A Dog

There are many factors to consider when you get a dog. You have to weigh what kind of lifestyle you have, where you live, and other things. Let’s take a look at some of the factors you should consider.

• Lifestyle Compatibility: You should choose a breed that matches with your activity level. Also, take into consideration your living space and the dog you want to get.
• Time Commitment: Taking consideration that dogs need consistent training, exercise and play. If you don’t have the time for that, then getting a dog may not be for you.
• Financial Responsibility: You have to know that owning a dog requires you to have some money because you will have to budget for vaccinations, supplies and food. You also have to budget for ongoing costs like vet visits, grooming, and other expenses.
• Time and Patience: Always be patient with your dog because they will have to adjust to your home. Behavioral issues may be normal, but positive reinforcement and training will help acclimate your dog.

Bottom Line

And there you have it, these are the best dog breeds for first time owners. Make sure that when you are choosing a dog, choose a breed that will be right for you. Consider the factors listed above to make your decision. The most important thing is that you and your dog feel comfortable and happy living together.