Are you looking for the perfect furry friend to complete your family? Choosing the dog breed that will fit your family and lifestyle is an important process and one that you shouldn't rush through. You should consider activity level, temperament, size, genetic issues, and many other factors when researching breeds.
If you're a first-time dog owner looking for the perfect breed, we can help. Before considering breed, think about your lifestyle and living space. Consider, for instance:
- How much space do you have for a dog?
- Will you have time in your daily life for walks, grooming, and socializing your dog?
- Do you have any allergies to pet dander?
- Are you able to afford food, accessories, and medical care for a dog?
Once you've answered these questions, it's time to do some breed research.
Popular Dog Breeds
There are several breeds that are favorites for new dog owners, mostly for their sunny personalities and simple care.
1. Golden Retriever
Golden retrievers come up in almost every list of favorite dogs for many reasons. They're smart, attractive, and friendly, with unmistakable "smiles" and luxurious golden fur. They're great family dogs and love playing with children. They're eager to please and simple to train. They require frequent grooming and do shed considerably, but they make a great addition to your family.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Spaniels are known for their gorgeous coats and their smarts with the King Charles Spaniel ranking as a favorite breed. These happy, small dogs are people-pleasers with great temperaments. Steer clear if you're away from the house often. These canines tend to have separation anxiety and are high energy, making them a poor fit for small apartments and owners with demanding jobs.
3. Labrador Retriever
The classic family dog, Labrador Retrievers. The are a well-recognized breed with a long pedigree of intelligence. Labs are friendly, energetic, and smart enough that training is no hassle. Of course, labs are larger in size and need room to run, so be sure you have the right indoor and outdoor living space if you're considering a Labrador Retriever.
4. Brittany
Looking to up your exercise? This beautiful, high-energy furry friends could be good motivation to get out and get moving. Ideal for a family that wants to spend a good amount of time outdoors, Brittanys don't require much grooming and are a snap to train.
5. Papillon
This breed is popular for first-time dog owners, particularly for people who don't have much space for a larger dog. However, these dogs have big personalities to fit with their small size and are known for being strong-willed. They're not recommended for families with young children for that reason but are excellent companions for individuals.
6. Greyhound
These gorgeous dogs are unmistakeable with their long limbs and high speeds. Though they're known for their racing abilities, these dogs are mellow, calm, and friendly. A greyhound may seem like a big commitment, but their laid-back personalities make them a good fit for new dog owners.
As always, our staff here at Intermountain Pet Hospital is available to answer your questions. We'd be happy to go over the different dog breeds with you and answer questions to help you make a final decision. Contact us anytime.
