Choosing the perfect dog can feel a little intimidating if you’re a first-time owner. With so many things to consider—like temperament, energy levels, and care needs—it’s easy to get overwhelmed.
What if you’re too soft and they take advantage of you? Or what if you’re too firm and hurt their sensitive nature?
Relax!
With the right breed, you’ll be a pro in no time! Some dogs are naturally more adaptable and easier to train, making them perfect for first-time owners.
The key is finding a breed that fits your lifestyle, energy level, and experience. So, don’t worry—you’ve got this! Let’s dive into 10 dog breeds that are best suited for beginners.
These friendly and easygoing dogs will help you build confidence as a new pet parent, and you’ll quickly learn the ropes of training and caring for your new best friend. Ready to find your perfect match?
Let’s go!
1. Shih Tzu
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If you want to feel like royalty, the Shih Tzu is the perfect choice for you! These little dogs were celebrated by Chinese nobility for their undeniable cuteness and royal charm.
With their luxurious coats and regal presence, Shih Tzus were once companions to emperors, and they still carry that noble flair today.
These adorable charmers are the epitome of luxury lounging—loving nothing more than soaking up your attention and being pampered. While they may not have the high-energy antics of some breeds, their low-key nature and loving personalities make them ideal for owners who enjoy relaxed companionship.
And let’s be real—if you had history as a companion to an emperor, you’d probably feel like you were entitled to a little extra attention and lounging too, right?
Shih Tzus are expert cuddle machines, always ready to snuggle up in your lap and enjoy some quality downtime.
But don’t forget, keeping their beautiful coat looking royal requires some effort. Regular grooming is a must to maintain their silky fur and prevent tangles, so be ready for a bit of pampering time for your pampered pup.
With a Shih Tzu, you’ll have a loyal, affectionate companion who’ll make you feel like royalty every day!
2. Greyhound
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Are you ready for a fascinating fact? Apparently, Greyhounds are some of the fastest land animals. I was as taken aback by this too! Imagine holding a silver medal speed star in your arms!
But the thing is, despite their track-star reputation, they are total couch potatoes in practice! They are calm and love to take naps almost as much as I do. Nonetheless, this makes them ideal for first-time owners, as long as they get a quick daily sprint.
3. Bichon Frisé
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Got allergies? Yeah, me too. But that’s exactly why the Bichon Frisé exists! These adorable little fluffballs are a dream come true for allergy sufferers. Known for their hypoallergenic coats, they shed very little, which means fewer allergens in your home.
But it’s not just their allergy-friendly nature that makes them special—they’re also incredibly easygoing and adaptable, making them perfect for apartments or smaller homes. They’re small in size but big on personality!
Despite their calm and friendly demeanor, Bichons are true little clowns at heart. These playful pups love to entertain, often performing silly antics that will have you laughing out loud.
If you’re lucky, you might catch them in one of their more mischievous moments, where they’re “partying” just a little too hard—whether it’s bouncing around the house or doing a happy dance.
Bichons thrive on companionship and affection, and they’ll make sure to keep the energy light and fun, all while offering endless cuddles when playtime is over.
With their sweet, cheerful nature and low-shed coat, a Bichon Frisé is the perfect companion for anyone looking for a low-maintenance dog that’s still full of joy and personality.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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Yet another dog meant for royalty. This pupper is also as royal as the name suggests. Cuddly and affectionate lap dogs – it’s in their blood!
They bond ultra-closely with their owners, so better not hurt their little hearts. They give the saddest little puppy-eye you’ve ever seen!
Fall in love with them just like King Charles II did. Who wouldn’t want the draggy long ears to flapper around their home?
5. Bernese Mountain Dog
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There are so many things to love about a Bernie—like their stunning coats, adorable floppy ears, and those big, soulful eyes that can melt anyone’s heart.
But if you’re looking for a dog that’s not only loving but also open to building a lasting bond with you and your family, then Bernese Mountain Dogs are an excellent choice!
These gentle giants are known for their impressive strength and loyalty, and they’re fantastic with kids, making them ideal family pets.
Their calm and patient demeanor makes them great companions for all ages, and they’ll happily join in on outdoor activities or just relax by your side. However, their cuddly nature and gentle disposition come with a little bit of a trade-off: they need plenty of space to roam and explore.
They’re large dogs with lots of energy, so having a yard or access to open areas is essential for their well-being.
Despite needing space, their affectionate personality and devotion to their family more than make up for it. If you’re ready for a dog that’ll love you unconditionally, provide you with lots of cuddles, and need some room to stretch, a Bernese Mountain Dog might just be your perfect match.
6. Golden Retriever
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The Dog. The Myth. The Legend. The dog that’s in every picture-perfect family photo. Goldilocks, also known as the Golden Retriever, is nothing short of sunshine incarnate.
With their glowing golden coat and bright eyes, they have a natural ability to light up any room, and their energy is as infectious as their smile. Goldies are the epitome of friendliness, loyalty, and patience, making them the perfect family companion.
Whether you’re having a rough day or just need a little extra cheer, they’ll be by your side, ready to offer their unconditional love and support.
Feeling bored? No problem! Goldies are more than just pretty faces—they are high-energy playmates who thrive on interaction. They can’t help but go wild with a tennis ball, chasing it for hours without tiring.
Their enthusiasm is endless, and they love nothing more than spending quality time with their humans. But it’s not just about play. Golden Retrievers are incredibly intelligent, picking up commands and learning new tricks with ease, which makes training both fun and rewarding.
Loyal to the core, they’re not just playful; they’re protective and always eager to please. What more could you want? A dog that will keep you entertained, make you laugh, and be a loving member of your family for years to come. With a Golden Retriever, every day is filled with joy, love, and lots of tennis balls.
7. Toy Poodle
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Another pick for my allergic friends out there. Don’t let their chic reputation fool you! These dogs aren’t to be messed with.
They’ve been around for about 400 years, and guess what? Poodles were originally bred to fetch game in water! Talk about being stylish and practical.
Toy poodles bring much more to the table besides style: they’re highly intelligent! Want a dog who’s smart enough to learn to sit before you even tell them to? The poodle’s for you!
8. Labrador Retriever
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One of the most popular dog breeds in the US for almost half a century! Can you imagine that? I mean, I can’t blame anyone for loving them so much. Such a handsome, loving, and endlessly loyal breed!
Whether you’re up for a fun hike or a cuddle session on the couch, it doesn’t matter. They’ve got you. First-time owners just can’t go wrong with choosing a Lab!
9. French Bulldog
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French Bulldogs are the perfect blend of charm, personality, and low-maintenance care, making them an ideal choice for new dog owners.
These small, sturdy dogs are affectionate and easygoing, and they love nothing more than cuddling up with their humans.
French Bulldogs are known for their playful antics and quirky personalities, but they don’t require the intense exercise routines that some other breeds do. This makes them great for people with a busy lifestyle or those living in apartments.
They’re easy to train, especially with their strong desire to please, and they adapt well to new environments. While they may have a stubborn streak, their love for attention and treats makes training sessions enjoyable.
French Bulldogs are also relatively healthy and low-shedding, meaning they’re a great choice for families or individuals looking for a dog that’s both cute and easy to maintain.
Their affectionate nature means they thrive on companionship and will bond closely with their owners. Whether you’re looking for a dog to join you on a short walk or just hang out on the couch, a French Bulldog is the perfect fit.
With their playful nature and loving heart, they’ll quickly become a beloved member of your home.
10. Border Collie
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Border Collies are incredibly smart, energetic, and loyal, which makes them a fantastic choice for new dog owners who are ready for an active and engaged companion.
Known as one of the most intelligent dog breeds, Border Collies love learning new tricks and commands, so they thrive in environments where they get plenty of mental stimulation.
They may require more attention than some other breeds, but their eagerness to please and sharp minds make them a joy to train, even for first-time owners.
While they’re very active and love physical exercise, like running or fetching, they also enjoy bonding time with their family, making them versatile and affectionate. Border Collies are naturally good with children and other pets, and their friendly demeanor makes them a welcome addition to most homes.
If you’re looking for a dog that will keep you on your toes, while also offering endless loyalty and companionship, the Border Collie could be the perfect fit. They’re incredibly intuitive, and once they know what’s expected, they can be a great partner for both work and play.
Just make sure you’re ready for daily walks, games, and some time to practice obedience training! With the right care, a Border Collie will quickly become an intelligent and affectionate member of your family.