Best First Dogs 2023: These are 10 great breeds of adorable dog for inexperienced owners - including the loving Labrador đ
David Hepburn
·3-min read
These are the breeds of dog you should consider if you're getting your first puppy. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
A huge number of us decided to welcome new puppies into our homes over the last couple of years â Kennel Club figures show dog ownership soared and show no sign of slowing down.
There are a whopping 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so thereâs plenty of thinking to do before you select your familyâs latest addition.
One thing to take into consideration is whether you are an experienced or new dog owner, with certain breeds far more challenging than others for newcomers to the canine club.
Poodles are incredibly intelligent dogs and have hypoallergenic coats - explaining their huge popularity around the world. They even come in three sizes - Standard, Miniature and Toy - so there's guaranteed to be one to suit your home and lifestyle. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
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Of course, depending on your lifestyle and circumstances thereâs no one size fits all approach â but first time owners should consider breeds that tend to be easy to train, eager to please, and friendly.
The Collie is a larger dog that needs quite a lot of exercise, but as long as you live an active lifestyle they make great first dogs. They are a breeze to train and are a loyal, affectionate and devoted breed. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
Here are the 10 best breeds for first-time dog owners, according to the American Kennel Club.
A perfect first pet for somebody looking for a house dog, the Shih Tzu is a friendly breed that needs little in the way of space or exercise. They are also highly intelligent and easy to train. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
Whippets are a slightly strange mix - a dog that loves to run but who also adore napping much of the day away. They have a natural attachment to people and are very friendly, particularly with children and visitors to their home. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
Pugs make for a great first dog as they are laid-back and get on well with pretty much anyone. They are easy to groom, don't need much room, and will be utterly devoted to you. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
The most popular dog in the Britain is also a pretty good choice for a first time owner. The Labrador Retriever has the perfect combination of brains, beauty and friendliness. It should be noted though that they need regular exercise and don't like being left alone for long periods of time. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
Adaptable to city, country or suburban life, the Soft Coated Wheaten is medium-sized breed of dog that is more easygoing that many of their terrier cousins. They need a decent amount of daily exercise and make a great first-time dog for a family. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
The Papillon is arguably the best small dog breed for new dog owners - particularly those with limited space. They are friendly and happy dogs, who are demonstrative and show very little aggression. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
There are few breeds that are more eager to please than the English Springer Spaniel. They are cheerful and affectionate and like to stick close to their owner. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
Instinctively protective towards their owners, the Boxer just adores human affection, making for an instantly adorable pet. They are also great with children and need very little grooming. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
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