Pet owners often worry whether they can adopt a dog when living in an apartment. 1. If you are looking for a medium-large high-energy dog, look no further than the playful Boxer. Not a good choice for first-time owners. What kind of cat should you get if you want a cuddly, affectionate, friendly pet? Dogs who are highly sensitive, independent thinking, or assertive may be harder for a first-time dog parent to manage. Surprisingly enough, they make some of the best watchdogs in the world. Post . Related. Make sure you can provide enough exercise for your new dog. Every item on this page was chosen by a Woman's Day editor. From their loyalty to their unconditional love, there's a reason why dogs are considered man's best friend. Becoming a first-time dog owner is exciting but it can also be a bit overwhelming. Adopting and taking care of a pet is an obligation, but also the most fulfilling thing you can do. Shedding: Low Barking: Very Low Energy: High. Adult dogs on the other hand are already trained most of the time. While small, Pugs are sturdy dogs that have a great sense of humor and love to have fun and play games. You can play fetch for hours or go for a run with your Lab, then end the busy day snuggling on the couch. Regular brushing is generally all you need to keep your Pom looking good. Consider the ideal age of your first dog. For a lower-maintenance coat, keep your Bichon's hair trimmed short. Training is imperative to prevent the dog from “owning” its family. With proper care, you are likely to find this breed to be a wonderful companion. 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. “Poodles are the teacher’s pets of the dog world,” Ellis says. The Papillon even gets along well with children, but kids must be gentle with this petite dog. Before bringing home the next adorable puppy you see, there are a few things to consider. Each breed has its own characteristics but you must also remember that within breeds, there is variation. The Poodle needs to be groomed regularly to maintain the curly, continuously growing coat. She adds that they are very communicative dogs and will let you know when they want your attention. 6. The breed is easy to train and requires only moderate grooming. There are hundreds of dog breeds out there. Yorkies have continuously growing hair that must be brushed and trimmed regularly. Final Thoughts: Best Small Dogs for First Time Owners. Conclusion. Any first-time dog owner can be successful with any dog breed, as long as they are committed. Being a first-time dog owner can be both challenging and rewarding, so it's important you do your research to find the perfect breed to suit your lifestyle. They are excellent with children of all ages. At the end of the day the most important thing when welcoming a dog into your home, whether you’re a first-time pet parent or not, is the bond you share. “They’re highly intelligent and eager to please.” They also don’t shed, which makes them great for people with allergies. There's a lot you need to know to make things go smoothly with your new friend. Here, we round up the 15 best cat breeds for domesticated living. They’re outgoing dogs with a good deal of energy. Tweet . While every dog’s personality is different, some breeds might match up well with beginners. Every dog needs a great vet! Small dogs are often the best choice if you leave in an apartment and a dog like a … The Best Dogs for First-Time Owners What are the best dogs for first-time owners? Labs also tend to love all food and can easily become overweight if you are not careful. For Dog People. There are so many different dogs that it is difficult to know how to choose the right one. Daily walks are great for this breed. 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. Without structure, these little dogs can be stubborn and vocal. Share It. This dog is elegant, attentive, and generally quiet. 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. Fortunately, each dog breed has a relatively predictable energy level, size, appearance, and grooming needs. 10 Best Dog Breeds for First-Time Dog Owners. You’ve finally decided to take the plunge and bring home a dog – congratulations! It may be helpful to consider adopting a dog from a rescue group that has a foster program. 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.. Jenna Stregowski, RVT. Your dog will be introduced to a new home and new owners - it's a lot to take in. 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. 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. Learn More → Choosing your first dog is an important decision requiring planning and research. TOP 10 BEST DOG BREEDS FOR FIRST TIME OWNERS! The Pomeranian is a dainty and sweet little lap dog. Its no wonder this is one of the world's most popular dogs! 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. Are you new to the dog world and looking to adopt a pooch in need of a good home? Poodles. Big and fluffy, the Bernedoodle is one of the most loving companion dogs with a goofy personality. Labrador Retriever Image: Pixabay. Dog experts have previously raised a few concerns about apartment dogs: However, the Whippet also makes an excellent pet dog for the first time owner, and they are relatively low maintenance and not hard to look after. I have had two Bernese and can assure you with absolute certainty that there will never be a third! However, you must be attentive to the grooming needs of this breed. Without further fluff, here are 15 of the best dog breeds for first time owners: 1. This breed is small but not tiny and has a gentle demeanor. Be sure to dedicate the time and money to regular groomer visits. Written by. The Best Dogs for First-Time Owners What are the best dogs for first-time owners? Happy shopping! Welcoming a dog into your life is one of the greatest joys on earth. These traits can help you select a dog that fits your family and household. Fortunately, they respond well to consistent, positive training and will thrive because of it. They’re always alert and cautious of the environment. Well aware of his ancestral royalty he will greet you with dignity and pride, demanding that respect in turn. If you’re looking for a pup who’s a bit more low-key, an affenpinscher might be a good choice. Workers can help you find a dog with the traits you desire. Labs thrive in active households that can provide plenty of exercise and training. See more guides to your dogs health, nutrition, training and behavioral problems on PeanutPaws.com Don't expect a low maintenance dog from the very first day you adopt! Ellis describes Bichons as “the total package” because they’re smart, hypoallergenic, and usually pretty quiet. One of the first places you take your new dog is to see the vet. These relaxed dogs are the perfect snuggle companion, according to Ellis. Learn about some of the best dog breeds for first time owners and find your perfect match. Why? But fear not – we’ve got you covered with a list of 10 of the best small dogs for first-time owners. That being said, if you’re a new dog owner, this breed is probably best avoided. If you want a dog that’s going to be no-nonsense, a poodle might be a good choice. Therapy dogs help to relax people who are experiencing stress and anxiety. One of the best dogs for first time owners, the Bichon Frise possesses a unique lineup of traits and are actually quite unusual dogs. Parents: Bernese Mountain Dog x Poodle. 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. One of the breeds below might be perfect for you and your family. The 8 Best Cat Breeds For First-Time Owners. The following constitutes answers from 218 veterinary professionals who were given a list of the most popular dog breeds and mixes. Here are the best dogs for first-time owners. The best therapy dogs can really brighten a room and help those around them to feel more peaceful. They are quiet while hanging out in the living room at home, often spending most of the day sleeping. Poms need basic training to provide structure and boundaries. Guardians by nature, Boxers are naturally protective of their families, especially children. Bichons are fairly easy to train and adapt well to any lifestyle. This breed is an all-around great companion. Before getting a dog, you need to make sure you can meet their 5 Welfare Needs. Train your Yorkie as you would train a big dog. Fortunately, that’s totally fine. If you find yourself wondering, "What kind of dog should I get?" There are even the best apartment dogs to fit that lifestyle better. Like our No. 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 reason the Labrador Retriever has reigned supreme on the American Kennel Club’s list of most popular breeds for nearly 30 years. These one-of-a-kind dogs can make wonderful companions. Poodles are very energetic dogs. These top ten breed lists for first time dog owners have working dogs, sighthounds, toy dogs, herding dogs & designer breeds. Tips for First Time Dog Owners What You Should Know if You're New to Dogs. Treeing Walker Coonhound. Golden Retrievers are eager to please and love spending time with their families. 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. The Best Dogs for First-Time Owners How to Care for Your Dog's Basic Needs The Spruce Pets. Goldens are smart and adaptable dogs that can thrive in most households. But with great joy comes great responsibility, especially if you’re looking to adopt a puppy. Here are 10 things first-time dog owners, or existing dog owners getting a second dog, can do to make the transition easier. Goldens also need a good amount of exercise to keep them in good physical condition and prevent boredom. This happy, friendly and adaptable dog breed can do well in a variety of households. Here we list the most popular family dog breeds in Australia right now. The Bichon Frise is a happy-go-lucky little dog that looks a bit like a bouncy cotton ball. Labs are deeply loyal and affectionate dogs that form close bonds with their families. By: Ann Compton. Labrador Retrievers make for a great first-time beginner dog. Being a first-time dog owner can be challenging, but a little easier if you get a dog that's easier to care for. “Their personality and intelligence make them easy to train and even easier to love,” Ellis says. Consider things such as how long you’re away from home each day, how often you travel, how active you are, and what kind of time you can really commit to your new dog. Print . Described as the comedian of the canine world, the Pug is one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners in apartments. If you have the time and budget for regular groomer visits, it will be fairly simple to keep your Yorkie in good condition. While every dog’s personality is different, some breeds might match up well with beginners. There's a lot you need to know to make things go smoothly with your new friend. By: Ann Compton. The ten breeds on our list require less “formal introduction time” than the average dog. Consider a Great Dane. Though young Boxers can be a little hyperactive, they are not difficult to train and they enjoy the attention during training. For these reasons, the cane Corso is one of the best guard dog breeds, though not for first-time dog owners. They’re eager to please and highly motivated by treats, which makes training them a breeze, especially if you start when they’re young. The Poodle is a well-known, popular and versatile dog breed. Here we have top 10 best dogs for beginners and first-time dog owners, in terms of easy to manage and less demanding. Many experts advise first time dog parents to start with a small dog. The Yorkie will be your friend for life. 10. Cavaliers can thrive in all kinds of households and tend to get along well with children of all ages. The Yorkshire Terrier is a great "starter dog" for those who want a little lap dog. 3. Searching for your first-ever dog? These dogs have lived in foster homes and many are already housetrained and well-socialized. These fit pups love being physically active, and they are known for being highly affectionate with their owners and other dogs. “Shih Tzus are a small breed with a big heart,” Ellis says. Talk to the volunteers and employees about the temperaments and needs of their adoptable dogs. This cute and fluffy breed of pups has a bright, playful, and loyal personality. These breeds will make any first-time dog owner feel like a pro. Therapy dogs are generally used to calm down other people, not the owner of the dog. 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. Consider the ideal age of your first dog. All dogs have basic needs, but some dogs need more care than others. Jenna Stregowski, RVT, has more than 20 years of experience working in veterinary medicine and has been writing about pet care for the last decade. 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. They don't shed as much as many other dogs, so you won't have to clean up stray fur. Regular brushing is important to avoid tangles in the hair. They are generally quite fearful of all sorts of harmless things, and quite aggressive to new types of animal. The breed does need regular brushing to keep its coat free of tangles and mats. This breed needs plenty of exercise and a strong foundation of training. Golden Retrievers have wonderful temperaments and are easy to train, making them an excellent choice for the first time dog owner. At his best, this is a smart, affable and moderately active dog who can excel in obedience, agility and being your best buddy. Daily basic exercise is generally enough to keep your Pom happy. Learn about some of the best dog breeds for first time owners and find your perfect match. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a sweet affectionate dog with a puppy-like appearance. And when you're ready to bring a furry friend home, Ellis says you should "consider checking out your local shelter." They are playful, outgoing, low-maintenance, and easy to train – all characteristics that make this breed great for new dog owners. Boxers are great with kids and other animals too. The Poodle is very adaptable to its environment and can do very well in a variety of households, including those with children. Your veterinarian will look out for your dog's health, educate you about your dog, and guide you through the world of dog ownership. If you are not sure which breed is right for you or you want a combination of breeds, visit your local shelter or rescue group and meet some adorable mutts. These dogs might have a reputation as racing dogs, but Ellis says while they are fast, “they don’t require long exercise.” That means a quick morning walk through the park is enough to power them through the day even if you have to leave home for work. You can also investigate other dogs that could The Papillon does not need a lot of exercise but does enjoy a chance to play and run around. Although boxers are quite hyperactive, they’re pretty easy to train (even for the first time dog owner.) That way you’ll get a companion like no other! But being a first-time dog owner can be challenging, and it’s hard to know where to begin when looking for your new special someone. Share . The Golden Retriever is the quintessential family dog. 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. Despite a medium-length coat, this dog's grooming needs are basic. It takes a lot of work to care for puppies. By adopting a mixed-breed dog, you are also helping to reduce pet overpopulation in shelters. Guard dogs have a strong instinct to protect and also tend to be imposing and intimidating. These are the best dog breeds ranked on categories such as personality, health, and popularity. This breed is affectionate towards its owner and may even act protective around strangers. Kelsey Hurwitz is the assistant editor of WomansDay.com, and covers entertainment, holidays, pets, and good news. 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. Golden Retriever. If you’re willing to make room for a truly individual personality, the Pekingese may be for you. They do have a lot of energy, though, so make sure you have plenty of time to schedule in play with them. Apple Tree House/Photodisc/Getty Images . 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. Training is essential but not difficult. “Their tiny size and friendly demeanor make them adaptable to almost any living situation.”. Most dogs have an instinct to protect their family and home, but not all are capable of restraining people or other animals. Poodles are incredibly intelligent and athletic. There are so many different dogs out there and it's hard to know how to choose the right one. You may actually prefer a lower-maintenance dog breed as your first one. Not only are they intelligent and clever, but also calm. This will help strengthen the bond between you and lay down boundaries. This breed has a curly coat that must be trimmed regularly and brushed carefully. Without plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, Labs may get bored and act out, especially during their younger years. Brush your Lab regularly to minimize shedding. Fortunately, this coat is not as high-maintenance as it looks. “Labrador Retrievers are known for their loyalty and sweet, easygoing nature,” Ellis says, which makes them a great family pet. What Are the Best Dogs For Beginners? We’ve created a Top 10 list of dogs for first-time owners – take a look at these breeds perfect for first timers. The Best Medium-Size Dogs for First Time Owners. 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. Owning a dog also comes with commitments and responsibilities, so it’s important you choose a breed that suits your lifestyle. They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Share Tweet Pin It. If you’re a social butterfly looking for a dog to take on the town, a Boston Terrier might be a good breed. If you want a dog that can go running with you, choose an athletic dog with endurance. Listed here are ten of the best dog breeds for first-time dog owners. 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. Explain that you will be a first-time owner. We’ve pulled together all our best tips to help first-time dog owners. Below, we have compiled a list of the top 14 best dog breeds for first-time owners that we hope will help you choose the best companion for your lifestyle. Once trained and socialized, Boxers can thrive in active households and often get along well with kids. April 23, 2019 . "First-time owners might consider looking for intelligent breeds with a calm character, which are likely to be easier to train," a spokesperson from The Kennel Club tells Country Living. They're playful, gentle, and loving animals. 6. If you want a dog that can go running with you, choose an athletic dog with endurance. Read through to get to know them better; perhaps your new best friend is waiting! Thinking about getting your first dog? 35. If you struggle to pronounce your new dog’s name, you haven’t done enough research! 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. We went to the veterinary community to get their take on which dogs, both breeds and designer mixes, are the best choices for first-time dog owners. Each of these breeds are known for being easy going and easy to train. There isn’t a “one size fits all” perfect breed for everyone. The Perro de Presa Canario is a calm breed, with a higher than average affection level and a protective spirit. It would be impossible to list all the best dogs for first-time owners, but I have done some legwork for you and I’ve filtered the list down to just 11. This cutie can be both your lap dog and exercise partner. By Jessica Booth. The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular and recognizable medium-large dog breeds. 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. They are perfect family companions, are relatively low maintenance, friendly with all children and adults. The same goes for “primitive,” “independent,” or “strong-willed” dogs. This breed of dog really isn’t the best option for a first time dog owner. Don't let the diminutive frame of this dog fool you. Training is imperative to prevent the dog from “owning” its family. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. 5 and 6 dogs, the Labradoodle is a popular crossbreed, this time mixing the exuberant, hardy Labrador with the stable, even-tempered Poodle. The ancient Shih Tzu is a Chinese dog breed developed well over 1,000 years ago in ancient China. Labs adapt well to most environments and are excellent with kids. Golden Retriever. The Yorkie has a moderate energy level and only needs basic exercise. The Pom often bonds closest to a single owner but can still do well in families. Getting your first dog can be an exhilarating and intimidating process all at the same time. Deciding which dog is a good fit for you is a daunting task, and shouldn’t be based on looks alone. 1. The 10 Best Large Dog Breeds for Families, The Best Dog Breeds That Get Along With Cats. The Papillon is a hardy little dog that enjoys a somewhat active lifestyle. The dog you choose will be with you for an average of 10 to 15 years. You'll have to spend a fair amount of time and effort in order to get your dog to a comfortable level of training. It takes a lot of work to care for puppies. The Bichon Frise is always happy and will make a great companion -- perfect any first time dog parent. [mnleft] 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. Golden Retrievers are known for being affectionate, kind, family-oriented dogs, not to mention they’re super adorable. First-time dog owners should keep in mind that, according to Petfinder, these dogs are best kept away from other dogs and pets, but they are about as loyal to their families as they come. Getting your first dog can be an exhilarating and intimidating process all at the same time. This breed is better with gentle older kids but can adapt to many situations. 3. "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." Before you take home the next adorable puppy you see, there are a few things to consider. For these reasons, the cane Corso is one of the best guard dog breeds, though not for first-time dog owners. Consider how much extra time you have to meet these needs. These dogs are “gentle giants,” Ellis says, adding that their “calm demeanor makes them perfect for small space living.”. Top tips from real first time dog owners. Fortunately, they only have minor grooming needs. Golden Retrievers have remained one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide and for good reason. 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. A rescue organization may be able to match you with the right companion. You get to welcome a furry friend into your life who you can care for and who will love you unconditionally. Are you a first time owner thinking of getting your first dog? Email . They have a mischievously hedonistic streak, which makes them almost seem catlike. Best Guard Dog Breeds for First Time Owners. Each owner is different, even when it comes to first time dog owners. When considering which breed is right for you, it's important to remember mixed-breed dogs. If this is your first time as a dog owner, there are breeds that are best suited for a noob. These dogs do require some exercise, but they’re also known for being sweet and snuggly. They love to learn and can be trained to do a number of things. Still, there are energetic dogs that are easy to live with. If your favorite dog breed is not here, that’s perfectly fine! Poodles are good-natured and very intelligent. “This isn’t the dog for the couch potato,” Ellis says. Bringing a dog into your family for the first time is a big deal, and we couldn't be more excited for you. Labrador Retriever. As a first time pet-owner, it’s a bit hard to keep up with all the yapping, romping, and baying. READ MORE: 18 Unique Aussie Mixes. As a pet owner, you should be loving to your pet and take great care of it. Brittany, a popular hunting dog, is one of the best dog breeds for first time owners who love exercise and are quite the athlete. They’re cheerful, mischievous, affectionate, and love nothing more than to be with their humans. If you’re looking for your new favorite running partner, a vizsla could be the perfect dog for you. This medium-large dog is happy, loyal, affectionate, and active. 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. However, they’re also intensely loyal and are all about family. A Rottweiler is a very large dog and for a first time dog owner it’s probably best avoided. The best dog breeds for first time owners include: Yorkshire Terrier Although terriers are known for their high energy levels and mischievous behaviour, the Yorkshire Terrier is a great starter dog for those wanting a lap-sized companion. Pros & Cons of a Cavalier King Charles. Dogs who are highly sensitive, independent thinking, or assertive may be harder for a first-time dog parent to manage. This breed is available in three sizes: Toy, Miniature or Standard. Looking for a lovable dog whose heart is just as big as its body? This is a loyal dog that forms a close bond with family. Labrador Retriever Labradors are athletic, playful, and one of the easiest dog breeds for a first-time dog owner. 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. 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! Find a veterinarian you love with a great staff and team. ShutterStock. “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. This breed is bright and moderately active with a big fluffy coat. Bernedoodle. When you know you’re ready to adopt a new friend, this roundup of the best dogs for first-time owners will point you in the right direction. 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. There’s a big difference in dog breeds in these lists, but there’s also a huge difference in first time dog owners. The Boxer's grooming needs are very basic. 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