15 Best Dogs for First-Time Owners
Choosing the right dog for a first-time owner is an exciting but sometimes overwhelming decision. First-time dog owners should look for dogs with friendly dispositions, easy-to-train temperaments, and manageable grooming requirements. Below are 15 of the best dogs for first-time owners, along with information on their health, temperament, and care needs.
15 Best Dogs for First-Time Owners
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small, affectionate breed known for its gentle nature and love for cuddling. They are excellent companions for first-time owners due to their adaptability and easy-going temperament. Cavaliers are often referred to as “velcro dogs” because they form close bonds with their dog owners and love to be by their side at all times. Despite their small size, they are active dogs that enjoy moderate exercise, such as daily walks and playtime.
Common Health Issues: Cavaliers can be prone to heart problems like mitral valve disease, hip dysplasia, and eye issues such as cataracts and dry eyes.
Breed Overview
Height: 12–13 inches
Weight: 13–18 pounds
Coat and Colour: Silky, medium-length coat; comes in Blenheim, tricolour, black and tan, or ruby
Life Expectancy: 12–15 years
2. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in the world due to their friendly, loyal, and intelligent nature. They are highly versatile dogs, excelling in various roles such as therapy, service, and sporting dogs. Labs are known for their boundless energy and love of outdoor activities, such as swimming, hiking, and playing fetch. They are incredibly friendly and get along well with children, other pets, and even strangers, making them an ideal family dog. However, due to their size and energy, Labs need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Common Health Issues: Labrador Retrievers are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, obesity (due to their love of food), and certain eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).
Breed Overview
Height: 21.5–24.5 inches
Weight: 55–80 pounds
Coat and Colour: Short, dense coat; black, yellow, or chocolate
Life Expectancy: 10–12 years
3. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are cheerful, playful, and affectionate dogs that are perfect for first-time dog owners. They are small but sturdy, and their hypoallergenic coats make them a great option for people with allergies. Bichons are known for their happy-go-lucky attitude and love to be the centre of attention. They get along well with children and other pets, making them a great family companion. While they don’t need intense exercise, regular walks and playtime keep them happy. Their curly coat does require regular grooming to prevent matting.
Common Health Issues: Bichons may experience dental issues, allergies, and patellar luxation (dislocated kneecap), making regular vet check-ups essential.
Breed Overview
Height: 9–11 inches
Weight: 7–12 pounds
Coat and Colour: Curly white coat, with traces of cream or apricot
Life Expectancy: 14–15 years
4. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a charming, affectionate breed that loves to be pampered. They are small, sturdy dogs that were bred as lapdogs for Chinese royalty. Shih Tzus are known for their friendly, outgoing personality and make excellent companions for families or individuals. They enjoy playtime but are equally content lounging on the couch. Shih Tzus do well in apartments due to their small size and moderate exercise needs, but their long coat requires regular grooming to keep it looking neat.
Common Health Issues: Shih Tzus are prone to brachycephalic airway syndrome due to their flat faces, as well as dental problems, hip dysplasia, and eye issues like corneal ulcers.
Breed Overview
Height: 9–10.5 inches
Weight: 9–16 pounds
Coat and Colour: Long, flowing coat in various colours
Life Expectancy: 10–16 years
5. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are one of the most well-known and beloved dog breeds, especially for first-time dog owners. They are intelligent, friendly, and incredibly loyal, making them an ideal family pet. Golden Retrievers are highly trainable and excel in obedience, agility, and other canine sports. They are gentle with children and get along well with other pets. Golden Retrievers need regular exercise, such as long walks or playing fetch, to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Their dense coats require regular brushing to prevent matting.
Common Health Issues: Goldens are prone to hip dysplasia, cancer, and heart conditions like subvalvular aortic stenosis. They can also develop eye issues, such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).
Breed Overview
Height: 21.5–24 inches
Weight: 55–75 pounds
Coat and Colour: Dense, water-repellent coat; golden shades
Life Expectancy: 10–12 years
6. Papillon
Papillons are small but incredibly intelligent and active dogs. Named for their butterfly-like ears, Papillons are known for their happy disposition and eagerness to please. Despite their small size, they are highly energetic and love activities like agility training and fetch. Papillons are highly trainable and make great companions for first-time owners who are looking for a dog that can keep up with them mentally and physically. While their coats are long, they don’t mat easily and require only moderate grooming.
Common Health Issues: Papillons can suffer from patellar luxation, dental problems, and collapsed trachea in rare cases.
Breed Overview
Height: 8–11 inches
Weight: 5–10 pounds
Coat and Colour: Long, silky coat; often white with patches of colour
Life Expectancy: 13–15 years
7. Pug
Pugs are known for their unique appearance and affectionate personality. They are small, sturdy dogs that make excellent companions for first-time owners, especially those living in apartments or small spaces. Pugs are playful, but they also enjoy lounging around, making them great for more laid-back owners. They thrive on human interaction and are known for their comical personalities. However, due to their flat faces, they can be prone to breathing issues and don’t tolerate heat well, so it’s important to monitor them during physical activities.
Common Health Issues: Pugs are prone to brachycephalic syndrome (breathing difficulties), obesity, and skin conditions like dermatitis.
Breed Overview
Height: 10–13 inches
Weight: 14–18 pounds
Coat and Colour: Short coat; fawn or black
Life Expectancy: 13–15 years
8. Beagle
Beagles are energetic, curious, and full of life. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they have a keen sense of smell and a love for exploring their surroundings. Beagles are friendly, social dogs that get along well with other pets and children, making them a perfect choice for families. Due to their history as hunting dogs, they can be quite independent and sometimes a bit stubborn, but with patience and consistent training, they can become well-behaved companions. Beagles need regular exercise to burn off their energy and prevent boredom-related behaviours.
Common Health Issues: Beagles may suffer from hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and ear infections due to their floppy ears, which require regular cleaning.
Breed Overview
Height: 13–15 inches
Weight: 20–30 pounds
Coat and Colour: Short coat; tricolour or lemon
Life Expectancy: 10–15 years
9. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are compact, muscular dogs with a friendly and easy-going nature. They are ideal for apartment living due to their small size and relatively low exercise needs. French Bulldogs are affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners, often becoming their constant companions. They are playful but don’t require as much exercise as some other breeds, making them a great option for those with a more relaxed lifestyle. Due to their flat faces, French Bulldogs are prone to breathing difficulties, so care should be taken in hot weather or during vigorous exercise.
Common Health Issues: French Bulldogs often suffer from brachycephalic airway syndrome, hip dysplasia, and skin allergies.
Breed Overview
Height: 11–12 inches
Weight: 16–28 pounds
Coat and Colour: Short, smooth coat; brindle, fawn, or white
Life Expectancy: 10–12 years
10. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are medium-sized dogs with silky, wavy coats and expressive eyes that capture hearts. Cocker Spaniels are playful and active, making them great companions for families with children or other pets. They do require regular grooming due to their long coats, and they thrive with a moderate amount of exercise, such as daily walks and playtime. Cocker Spaniels are highly trainable and enjoy learning new tricks, which makes them great for first-time owners who are eager to engage with their dogs.
Common Health Issues: Cocker Spaniels are prone to ear infections, hip dysplasia, and certain eye conditions like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy.
Breed Overview
Height: 13.5–15.5 inches
Weight: 20–30 pounds
Coat and Colour: Silky coat in various colours
Life Expectancy: 10–14 years
11. Havanese
Havanese dogs are cheerful, playful, and affectionate. Known for their vibrant personalities, they thrive in environments where they can interact with their family members regularly. Havanese are small but sturdy, making them a perfect fit for apartment living or homes with limited space. They form close bonds with their owners and are highly adaptable, meaning they can easily transition between being playful companions and calm lapdogs. Their silky, long coats may require regular grooming, but they don’t shed much, making them a great choice for those with allergies.
Common Health Issues: Havanese dogs may suffer from patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, and eye conditions like cataracts.
Breed Overview
Height: 8.5–11.5 inches
Weight: 7–13 pounds
Coat and Colour: Long, silky coat in a wide range of colours including white, cream, black, and chocolate
Life Expectancy: 14–16 years
12. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are compact, intelligent, and full of charm. Known as the “American Gentleman” due to their tuxedo-like markings, Boston Terriers are friendly, lively, and affectionate. They are a great option for first-time owners because they are easy to train, adaptable to various living situations, and require only moderate exercise. Their short, smooth coat makes grooming simple. Despite their small size, Boston Terriers are known for their playful spirit and energetic bursts, but they also enjoy plenty of cuddle time.
Common Health Issues: Boston Terriers may experience breathing issues due to their brachycephalic face, as well as cataracts, heart issues, and allergies.
Breed Overview
Height: 15–17 inches
Weight: 12–25 pounds
Coat and Colour: Smooth, short coat; often black, seal, or brindle with white markings
Life Expectancy: 11–13 years
13. Maltese
The Maltese is a small, elegant dog with a long history of being a beloved companion breed. Their beautiful white, silky coat gives them an aristocratic appearance, but their personality is warm, affectionate, and friendly. Maltese dogs are known for their loyalty and desire to please, making them easy to train and well-suited for first-time owners. Despite their luxurious coats, they don’t shed much, though regular grooming is needed to keep them looking their best. Maltese are content with short walks and playtime, making them a great option for those with less active lifestyles.
Common Health Issues: Maltese can suffer from dental issues, patellar luxation, and in some cases, hypoglycaemia in puppies. Regular vet care is important to monitor their health.
Breed Overview
Height: 7–9 inches
Weight: Under 7 pounds
Coat and Colour: Long, silky white coat
Life Expectancy: 12–15 years
14. Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie)
Shetland Sheepdogs, or Shelties, are known for their intelligence, agility, and herding instincts. They are highly trainable and often excel in obedience and agility competitions. Shelties are loyal and form strong bonds with their families, making them excellent companions for first-time owners who want an active, trainable dog. They are known for their sensitivity, often picking up on their owner’s emotions, which makes them great for people who want a close, responsive pet. Shelties do require regular grooming due to their long, thick coats, but their beauty and kind nature make the upkeep worthwhile.
Common Health Issues: Shelties may experience hip dysplasia, thyroid disorders, and a genetic eye condition known as Collie Eye Anomaly. Regular veterinary check-ups can help manage these conditions.
Breed Overview
Height: 13–16 inches
Weight: 15–25 pounds
Coat and Colour: Long double coat; sable, black, or blue merle
Life Expectancy: 12–14 years
15. Whippet
Whippets are sleek, graceful dogs with a calm and gentle demeanour. Known for their incredible speed, Whippets are natural athletes but surprisingly are content with lounging around the house for much of the day. They have a laid-back nature, making them an excellent choice for first-time owners who want a low-maintenance dog. Whippets do enjoy short bursts of exercise, such as running or chasing after toys, but once their energy is expended, they are more than happy to relax. Their short coats are easy to care for, requiring minimal grooming, though they are sensitive to cold weather and may need an extra layer in winter.
Common Health Issues: Whippets are generally healthy but may develop heart problems, hip dysplasia, and are sensitive to anaesthesia due to their low body fat.
Breed Overview
Height: 18–22 inches
Weight: 25–40 pounds
Coat and Colour: Short, smooth coat; comes in a variety of colours
Life Expectancy: 12–15 years
Breed Characteristics for First-Time Owners
Choosing the best dog breed for a first-time dog owner ultimately depends on your lifestyle, activity level, and how much time you can dedicate to grooming and exercise. For instance, if you’re looking for a playful, easy-going companion who enjoys outdoor activities, the Labrador Retriever or Golden Retriever might be a good match. If you prefer a more relaxed, smaller dog that’s easy to care for, consider breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Pug, or Maltese. Low-maintenance dogs like the Papillon and Whippet are also great for beginners, especially if grooming or exercise time is limited.
It’s important to remember that all dogs require love, attention, and care, regardless of their breed. Adopting an adult dog from a shelter or rescue can be a fantastic option for first-time owners, as these dogs are often already trained and socialized, easing some of the work involved in raising a puppy. Additionally, no matter the breed, all dogs need regular veterinary check-ups, proper nutrition, and training to ensure they live healthy, happy lives.
FAQs: Best Dogs for First-Time Owners
What’s the best dog for a first-time owner?
The best dog for a first-time owner depends on your lifestyle, energy levels, and preferences. Breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bichon Frise, and Golden Retriever are excellent choices due to their friendly, adaptable natures and relatively easy training. Additionally, adopting an adult dog from a rescue or shelter is another great option, as they are often house-trained and socialized.
What is the easiest dog to take care of?
The Whippet, Papillon, and French Bulldog are among the easiest dogs to care for. These breeds have relatively low grooming needs, and while they enjoy physical activity, they don’t require intense exercise. Their laid-back nature and minimal shedding also make them easier to manage in daily life.
What is the safest dog to own?
Breeds like the Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever are widely considered some of the safest dogs to own, especially for families with children. Their friendly, gentle, and patient temperaments make them excellent companions for people of all ages. They are also known for their loyalty and ability to get along with other pets.
Which dog is the easiest to train?
Dogs like the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Shetland Sheepdog are highly trainable due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. These breeds excel in obedience training, making them ideal for first-time owners who are new to dog training.
What is the calmest dog to have?
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Shih Tzu, and Bichon Frise are known for their calm and gentle dispositions. These breeds are perfect for owners who prefer a more laid-back, affectionate companion. They enjoy lounging around and are content with moderate exercise.
What is the most well-behaved dog?
Breeds such as the Golden Retriever, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and Shih Tzu are often praised for their well-behaved and easy-going natures. With proper training and socialization, these dogs tend to be gentle, obedient, and well-mannered, making them perfect for first-time owners looking for a hassle-free companion.
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