Top 7 Dog Breeds for first-time owners

Getting yourself a pet can be the most exciting time, but finding an ideal match might be a little challenging. Every dog breed is unique and has different lifestyle, exercise, and grooming requirements. While it's difficult to predict how you and your dog will get along for the rest of your time together, there are breeds with certain personality traits that are best suited for first-time owners. Although the ‘No one size fits all’ approach is true for dogs, we bring you an overview of some breeds that can be best suited for first to-be dog parents. Every dog will love you the same no matter how you look or where you come from!

Pug: Pugs are snuffly little snorty dogs. They have a short muzzle and have wrinkly bodies which makes them great cuddlers. Pugs are not an independent breed, rather, they are renowned for being ‘clingy’ and will follow you around with their teeny tiny potato booty. These are very entertaining, mischievous, and easy to please dogs. They need occasional grooming, and regular exercise is a  must to avoid obesity. Pugs are their own bosses and can have a stubborn streak due to their history of having a royal heritage. Obedience training is a must, and pugs can be easily trained. They can also adjust to compact small houses and make great companions with the children.

Lhasa Apso: Lhasa Apso is a breed that is native to Tibet. They were originally bred to be used as a sentry in the Tibetan Monasteries and palaces. This breed is known for being a loyal companion and can also adapt to changing households. The first Tibetan breed to be recognized by the AKC, Lhasa Apsos are vigilant, with a keen sense of hearing, as a result of their indoor breeding by the Tibetan Monks. They have a very alert temperament and may sometimes act suspiciously towards strangers. These dogs are little bundles of high energy, so if you're looking for a playful yet cuddly dog, this might be what you're looking for. Lhasa Apsos have a thick and long hair coat and can shed hair slowly and continuously if not groomed regularly. 

Pomeranian: These cotton candy balls are adorable and belong to the Spitz (classified with their pointed muzzle and short frame) type of dogs. These dogs have a long poofy coat that needs to be groomed frequently to avoid tangling and tick infestation. These Nordic descendants are typically of active, playful, and extroverted temperament. However, they are prone to excessive barking, w-oof!. Training and socialization with other dogs can overall help in overcoming their demanding nature. Poms are naturally very active and require less exercise compared to other breeds of the ‘Toy’ variety. 

Poodle: These squishy pom-pom balls are ranked as the most intelligent breed following Border Collie. Although the origin of this breed is still not known well, these dogs seem to epitomize a life of leisure and luxury. They come in small-large sizes. These are highly intelligent and independent dogs and would solve a problem efficiently. These have a single, dense, and curly hair coat. They do not shed often but clipping and brushing is a must to avoid hair tangling. Poodles are very social and can adapt to the apartment lifestyle. 

Labrador Retriever: A study conducted by the AKC showed that for the years 2014-2019, Lab retrievers were ranked 1st as the most popular breed among dog owners. The Lab Retriever is a medium-large sized breed. These are one of the most intelligent dog breeds and are used for disability assistance and detection work for law enforcement. Labs have long noses and tall, slim legs and a short hair coat. They have a very calm, fun-loving, and attentive temperament. Labs have an athletic body but are prone to obesity without proper exercise. 

Golden retriever: Golden Retrievers are one of the most famous breeds in the world. Similar to the Lab retrievers, Golden retrievers have a calm, playful, and tolerant temperament making them great family pets. Unlike Labradors, these have a distinct smooth hair coat that needs regular maintenance. Retrievers have the ability to retrieve game both on land as well as in water. Besides, they are excellent swimmers and have been used for rescue operations.  

Cocker Spaniel: Cocker Spaniel is a very lively playful breed and were originally used for hunting. They are much loved for their friendly nature, active lifestyle, and the loving relationships they have with their human companions. These gorgeous long-haired dogs are medium-sized with long adorable floppy ears. Due to this hair structure, they require frequent grooming. Cocker spaniels are intelligent and easy to train dogs but at times can be very stubborn. These are people-oriented dogs, and love to be around their family. Therefore, making good companions for people of all ages. Due to their nature, they can be destructive if left alone frequently. Overall ‘The Merry Cocker’, a name that it's got because of its happy tail-wagging personality, has a very gentle and enthusiastic temperament. 

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