Best dog breeds for first time owners

How can I decide what the right dog is for me?

If you have a dog breed in mind or are open to what breed of dog you get, you need to consider if you have the time and resources to provide everything the dog needs, including affording vet care (vets can be expensive!) and spending time with them as some dogs don’t cope well being left alone for long periods.

What should I consider before getting a dog?

Getting your first dog is exciting, but it’s also a big responsibility. Let’s look closer at what you should consider before getting a dog:

Space

If you live in a flat/apartment, a medium or large dog may not work as they’ll have limited space for their bedding, to play, and exercise. With smaller dogs, their bedding may fit nicely in a nook in a room. Having access to an outdoor space for going to the toilet needs to be thought about. 

Time

It takes time every day to look after a dog. They need walking at least twice a day. The bigger the dog, the longer walks they generally need. If you get a puppy, you’ll need to spend time training them. And, you should think about what you’ll do when you’re at work. Can someone else in the home look after them when you’re not there?

Another thing to consider is how dog breed lifespans can vary. Some small breeds can live 15–18 years, while larger breeds often have shorter lifespans. Understanding this helps you plan for the long-term commitment and ensures you’re ready for the many years of care, companionship, and love your dog will need.

Affordability

Just like us, dogs have needs, and the size or breed of the dog can shape the costs involved in caring for them. For example, larger dogs naturally have a bigger appetite. Some breeds are more likely to suffer from certain illnesses and health diseases, like French Bulldogs, which are prone to IVDD (disc disease), so you need to consider vet costs. For more information, read our guide on the healthiest dog breeds and dogs with the most health problems to find out which breeds have the fewest to the most health issues.

Buying or rescuing 

There’s no better feeling than giving a rescue dog a forever home. And, if cost is a consideration, it’s generally cheaper to adopt a rescue dog. However, dogs in rescue may not have had the best start in life, so it may take time for them to settle. Buying a puppy means you can choose the dog you want, and you know their parentage. But the cost is higher, and they’ll need lots of training. If this is something you have considered, take a look at our guide on puppy training.

What should I consider when choosing my dog breed?

We’ve covered what to consider before getting a dog, now let’s look at what to consider when choosing a dog breed. The top ones are: 

Size

Larger dogs need a confident owner, and they tend to be stronger, so you should think about whether you can comfortably control them on and off the lead. If you have small kids, will they be scared by a larger dog? Or is a smaller breed better suited to you and your family?

Characteristics

Each dog has their own unique personality but some characteristics are more common in certain breeds. Think about the personality characteristics you ideally want, and research breeds that match. For instance, if you want a dog that will be happy sitting on your lap all day, a Chihuahua is ideal.   

Grooming

If you dread the thought of having to hoover up dog hair every day, a long-haired pooch isn’t for you. Or, if trying to wrangle your dog into the bath frequently isn’t your idea of fun, a dog who needs regular washing isn’t your match made in heaven. Other grooming needs to look at include the frequency of nail trimming, ear cleaning, teeth cleaning, and fur brushing.

What are the best dog breeds for first time owners?

If you’re undecided on what type of dog to get, here are some breeds that make a great dog for first time owners: 

Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are intelligent dogs and are known to be easy to train. Additionally, their calm nature means they’re good with kids. If you’re comfortable with larger dogs, a Golden Retriever will be a great addition to your family.

Breed overview

• Size: Large
• Weight: 25–34 kg 
• Height: 55–61 cm 
• Lifespan: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Friendly, calm, intelligent
• Energy level: High

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are another intelligent breed and they’re eager to please, so training should be a walk in the park! They have a great temperament, being calm and playful, which makes them perfect for families or single-owners. 

Breed overview

• Size: Large
• Weight: 25–36 kg 
• Height: 55–62 cm
• Lifespan: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Gentle, outgoing, intelligent
• Energy level: High

Poodle

If dogs could take an IQ test, they’d be on par with Einstein, so as you can guess, training is easy. They tend to be a healthy breed, which is good on the pocket. And they come in different sizes, so you can choose the one that fits your lifestyle. 

Breed overview

• Size: Medium to large
• Weight: 20–32 kg
• Height: 45–60 cm
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, trainable
• Energy Level: Moderate to high

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 

Looking for a laid-back dog? Then look no more! Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are chilled, but also friendly, so having friends around shouldn’t be an issue. They generally get on well with kids and other pets. However, this breed can be prone to medical conditions. So make sure you do your research so you know what you might be taking on and use a reputable breeder.

Breed overview

• Size: Small
• Weight: 5.4–8 kg
• Height: 30–33 cm 
• Lifespan: 9–14 years
• Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, friendly
• Energy level: Moderate

Greyhound

If you like being outdoors, a Greyhound could be for you. They need a short walk in the morning and a longer one in the evening. Again, they’re an intelligent breed, so they are relatively easy to train and are known not to bark.

Breed overview

• Size: Large
• Weight: 27–40 kg 
• Height: 68–76 cm
• Lifespan: 10–14 years
• Temperament: Gentle, intelligent, calm
• Energy level: Moderate

Bichon Frise

Small and extremely cute, Bichon Frise is well suited to different living environments, so they are happy in flats/apartments or smaller homes. They love to please, which is fantastic for training. They’re a really friendly breed too, and will become your life long friend.

Breed overview

• Size: Small
• Weight: 5–10 kg 
• Height: 23–30 cm 
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Cheerful, friendly, playful
• Energy level: Moderate

Boxer

A very loyal breed, Boxers are perfect for people who want a dog who will always be by their side. Very friendly and loyal, they’ll love their family forever. Boxers are very playful, so expect them to want lots of ‘fetching the ball’ games.

Breed overview

• Size: Large
• Weight: 25–32 kg
• Height: 53–63 cm
• Lifespan: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Loyal, playful, affectionate
• Energy level: High

Yorkshire Terrier

There is lots to love about these little dogs: playful, loyal, and affectionate. Their intelligence makes them quick to learn, but expect a little pushback sometimes; they can be a little stubborn. Their small size makes them ideal for flat/apartment living.

Breed overview

• Size: Small
• Weight: 2–3 kg 
• Height: 15–17 cm 
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Intelligent, playful, loyal
• Energy level: Moderate

What dog breeds should I avoid as a first time owner?

On the flip side, certain dog breeds may not be suitable for first time dog owners. These breeds often require more training, exercise, or specialized care than a beginner might be prepared for. Let’s take a look at the dog breeds you should consider avoiding as a first time owner.

Border Collie

Border Collies are super active, so they need to be in a household that loves the outdoors. They’re also highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train, but which means they need lots of mental stimulation, as a bored Collie isn’t good news.

Breed overview

• Size: Medium
• Weight: 14–20 kg 
• Height: 46–56 cm
  Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Intelligent and alert
• Energy Level: Very high

Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are beautiful dogs, but not generally recommended for first time owners as they need a lot of looking after. They’re extremely active and need owners who are prepared to spend lots of time exercising them. Huskies are independent thinkers, so they need regular reward based training to control their behaviour.

Breed overview

• Size: Medium
• Weight: 16–27 kg
• Height: 50–60 cm
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Independent and active

Akita

Their size and strength can mean Akita’s aren’t the best breed for first time owners. They’re better suited to someone who has the confidence to take control and the strength to control them on the lead; Akitas have a strong prey drive, and if they’re not trained, they will go after what they think is prey.

Breed overview

• Size: LargeWeight: 32–59 kg
• Height: 61–71 cm
• Lifespan: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Loyal and strong-willed. Requires an experienced handler

Dalmatian

Dalmatians can have a reputation for being stand-offish, so they need socialising from an early age to get used to being around people, other animals, and being in different environments. They also require regular positive reward training from a young age.

Breed overview

• Size: Medium to large
• Weight: 23–32 kg
• Height: 48–61 cm
• Lifespan: 11–13 years
• Temperament: Energetic and social

Cane Corso

Also known as the Italian Mastiff. Cane Corso’s are large dogs that need lots of space and time outdoors exercising. They are an incredibly loyal breed, but if they’re not socialised from an early age, their protectiveness can develop into aggression or fear towards others. Cane Corso’s need an owner who is experienced in managing larger breeds [2].

Breed overview

• Size: Large
• Weight: 45–50 kg
• Height: 62–70 cm
• Lifespan: 9–12 years
• Temperament: Loyal and protective.

Chow Chow

These large teddy bears are super cute, but don’t be misguided by their appearance; they are very stubborn and strong-willed. Training isn’t going to happen quickly and they need an owner who knows how to handle them. Chow Chows need lots of mental stimulation, so they are suited to someone who knows what they’re doing. 

Breed overview

• Size: Large
• Weight: 20–32 kg
• Height: 46–56 cm
• Lifespan: 9–15 years
• Temperament: Stubborn and independent

German Shepherd

If there’s 2 words to describe a German Shepherd it’s active and intelligent. So intelligent that they’re a top working dog breed, often chosen by the police and armed forces, as they’re very easy to train, but only if you know what you’re doing. German Shepherds have loads of energy and can be excitable, which needs to be monitored around young children.

Breed overview

• Size: Large
• Weight: 25–34 kg
• Height: 55–65 cm
• Lifespan: 9–13 years
• Temperament: Intelligent and loyal. Needs an experienced owner.

Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards are a large and strong breed, weighing between 54kg to 81kg. This means they need a confident owner to train them. Saint Bernards are prone to several health issues (hip dysplasia, knee dysplasia, skin issues are just a few!), which can be concerning for people who don’t know the breed [3].

Breed overview

• Size: Large
• Weight: 54–81 kg
• Height: 65–90 cm
• Lifespan: 8–10 years
• Temperament: Strong-willed and powerful.

Is it difficult to be a first time dog owner?

Owning a dog is so rewarding, bringing lots of laughs and love into your life. Doing it for the first time can be challenging, as you have no idea what to expect. But, keeping in mind these 3 p’s will make it easier: Planning, Preparation, and Patience.

Planning 

Planning is key to making being a first-time dog owner easier; choosing a reputable breeder who can explain how to parent the pup or knowing what to expect with a rescue dog. Do your research to understand what type of breed fits with your lifestyle and the needs of that breed. If you’re a first time dog owner of a puppy, check out our first week with a puppy guide for further guidance.

Preparation

Get to grips with the costs of owning a dog, source the best type of food for them (of course, we always advocate for raw food), understand your legal responsibilities as a dog owner, what vaccinations they need, and what to do if they become ill. 

Patience

Be patient with your puppy or rescue dog, as each dog will take time to become comfortable in their new home. Be patient with yourself as you’re just finding your feet as a dog owner. Consider creating a routine early on, start training from day 1, and be consistent in your approach – all these will help create a bond with your dog so they follow your lead.

What do I need as a first time dog owner?

There are some essential things you’ll need to acquire when getting a dog, including [1]: 

• A bed
• Crate (if you’re getting a puppy/doing crate training)
• A feeding bowl and a water bowl
• Collar
• Harness
• Coat/jacket for when it’s cold
• Grooming brush
• Shampoo/conditioner 
• Toys, enrichment toys
• Food (think us! We offer nutritious puppy dog food, adult, and senior food)
• Treats (we sell them too!)
• Poo bags
• A sense of humour!

References:

1. Time first dog owner guide, Blue Cross: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/wellbeing-and-care/first-time-dog-owner-guide
2. Pros and cons of a Cane Corso, Dog Time:https://dogtime.com/reference/149151-pros-cons-cane-corso 
3. Saint Bernard, PDSA: https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/large-dogs/saint-bernard 
4. 10 friendly and adorable dog breeds, American Kennel Club: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/10-friendly-dog-breeds/
5. 9 calm dog breeds, American Kennel Club: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/calm-dog-breeds/