Vet expert shares best dog breeds for first-time owners – and some are surprising

For those stepping into the world of dog ownership for the first time, picking the perfect pooch can seem overwhelming.

However, guidance is at hand courtesy of a team of veterinarians who've offered tips on the most appropriate breeds for novice owners. In a helpful TikTok video posted by Santa Monica Veterinary Group, they dished out some advice: "If you're looking to adopt or get a new furry addition to your family, here are some dog breeds our team at the clinic recommends."

The informative video features a vet querying colleagues about their breed recommendations for first-time dog parents. A mixed breed was the choice of one vet who said: "I usually say mixed breed dogs because hopefully, you get the best of two, or four, or six, or eight different worlds."

Toy Poodle fans were represented as well, and another expert vouched for Pit Bulls, highlighting: "People judge them but they're very loving and good family dogs."

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Another veterinarian mentioned: "I'd say a Shih Tzu because my mum had a Shih Tzu and it kept her company and slept with her every night. They got through their health issues together."

The humble Chihuahua was also featured, with one noting they "live forever".

Responses to the video varied among users, with one remarking: "Definitely not Dachshund."

Another shared their Pitty mix was incredibly attached, saying: "I adopted a Pitty mix and he's stuck to me like glue. Literally cheek to cheek right now as he sleeps."

Also, a nod to the Japanese Chin came from another user's suggestion. Just recently, a vet named the dog breeds she would avoid. Vet tech Connie has gone viral for sharing the dog breeds she'd avoid at all costs.

Her TikTok video listing her non-preferred breeds has attracted over 20 million viewers, and in it, she captioned: "Dog breeds I would NOT own as a veterinary technician and why."