15 Ideal Dogs Good for First Time Owners: Small, Medium, and Large Breeds for Every Lifestyle

 

Why Is It Important to Match a Dog Breed with Your Lifestyle?

 

Finding the best dog breeds to match your lifestyle can be overwhelming and a lot of first time dog owners end up getting a dog that they might have met once in a park that seemed lovely or that they have seen in a movie or tv series and thought "I want that one!".

 

However, choosing a dog because you have only met 1 nice example of a breed or because you like the look of it can lead to a chaotic situation where you're not matched properly with the dog breed you have chosen.

 

Just because a dog you have met is super well-trained and lovely doesn't mean that your dog will be the same. The owner might have spent 3 hours per day walking and training it so if you worked a busy job then this simply wouldn't be realistic.

 

They might have paid $1000s to get a professional trainer in to help them get to this point which in your situation may not be feasible.

 

I remember when I was researching dog breeds, I would find a few breeds that looked suitable for my lifestyle.

 

When I researched them on Youtube it generally showed me in the search results the dogs with larger followings who were generally super well trained.

 

This made me think in the back of my mind that "if that one is so well behaved then my one will be similar surely?!' but in reality, this is often far from true!

 

If you then go ahead and get a dog breed based on limited information then you could end up getting a Border Collie for a 2-bed apartment in a busy city with no parks nearby because you saw an amazing one on TV.

 

With nowhere to get their energy out and not enough time to walk it each day you have unwittingly created an environment where neither you nor most importantly your new dog will be happy and fulfilled.

 

This is why choosing the right dog breed to match your lifestyle for a first-time dog owner is so important!

 

You need to make sure that the dog breeds you are interested in getting have the right energy levels you want, shed the right amount of fur (or none at all), and have exercise requirements that you can deliver on every day no matter rain or shine.

 

That's why I created a FREE easy-to-use dog breed finder tool that makes this process a little bit easier. You can filter dog breeds based on your lifestyle preferences and compare any that you think would be suitable + read real owner reviews on what it's like to own one!

 

If there's any advice I can give you, it's just, to be honest with the amount of time you can spend each day on your dog and choose accordingly.

 

One mistake I made with my dog was getting a high-energy Doberman when at the time I had the time to walk him enough each day (1.5 hours+).

 

When my business got busier and then I had a baby it got quite stressful at times to find the time to walk the dog each day, work on my business, look after the baby, AND spend time with my partner.

 

I don't regret getting this breed at all and got a dog walker to help out a few times a week but i probably could have saved myself some extra stress if I got something a bit more chilled like an English Bulldog!

 

Why Picking the Appropriate Breed is Crucial for First-Time Dog Parents

 

When it comes to picking the right dog for you or your family, the breed is probably the most important factor to consider and this is regardless of if your a 1st-time owner or not.

 

All dog breeds were bred for specific tasks at hand whether that's herding sheep (Border Collies), personal protection (Dobermans), killing rats in barns (Terriers), or pulling sleds in freezing cold environments (Huskies).

 

As a result, they have shared characteristics and traits that make them suitable or unsuitable for specific owners.

 

One of the reasons I started The Pedigree List was to help owners make a more informed decision about choosing the right dog breed to hopefully help reduce the number of dogs that go to shelters each year.

 

Oftentimes this is a result of people getting popular dog breeds without understanding the care requirements that this breed needs.

 

When they can't cope with the reality of owning the dog then they end up giving the dog away to a shelter and unfortunately, a lot goes on to get euthanized.

 

Let's take my dog Haku (named after the dragon in Spirited Away) who is a male Doberman.

 

If my partner wasn't off work during the puppy stage due to an operation it would have been incredibly challenging to give him the early training he needed to become a stable dog in later life.

 

As he is a guarding breed he can bark at any noises he hears outside and if we didn't know how to deal with that then it can become super stressful!

 

Even after all the training & socialization we have given him, he can still be quite headstrong and isn't very good with other male dogs.

 

He also takes up a lot of time, if he gets bored then he will start stealing my boxers or generally messing up the sofa to entertain himself!

 

Luckily, I work from home but if I didn't or had to commute an hour before and after work then we wouldn't realistically be able to handle him and give him the care he needs.

 

The traits above aren't surprising considering Dobermans were bred as personal protection dogs, are often called 'velcro dogs', and are super intelligent.

 

If you were a busy owner that wanted a laid-back dog but saw Kylie Jenner on Instagram with her Doberman then you would be pulling your hair out very quickly.

 

This is why carefully researching and choosing the right dog breed for your lifestyle is so important!

 

Now let's check out some hand-picked dogs that are suitable for 1st-time dog owners from small, medium to large.

 

5 Small Dog Breeds Good for 1st Time Owners

 

1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

 

Overview and history

 

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was a favorite among European nobility, dating back to the 17th century. Their easygoing nature has made them a popular companion for centuries. You might also recognize it from the Disney film The Lady and the Tramp.

 

Temperament and characteristics

 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are affectionate and gentle dogs making them great choices for families with young children, seniors, and single people.

 

They are sociable so can fit in well with other pets like cats and dogs making it one of the easiest dog breeds for first-time owners.

 

Training and exercise requirements

 

They are an intelligent breed so fairly easy to train for first-time owners and have moderate exercise requirements.

 

A 45-1 hour walk per day should be enough to keep them happy and active.

 

Health concerns and lifespan

 

Their lifespan is generally between 12-14 years but they can be prone to health issues including mitral valve disease, luxating patella, hip dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy.

 

For more detailed information on the Cavlier King Charles Spaniel breed check out our free breed finder tool. You can read real owner reviews, the average cost to keep one, and more detailed information on their temperament and characteristics on our free breed finder tool here.

 

2. Pug

 

Overview and history

 

Pugs originally come from China and are thought to be over 2000 years old. Like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, they were loved by nobility and royalty as an easy-to-look-after companion dog breed.

 

They have an instantly recognizable appearance and funny personalities making them one of the most popular dog breeds.

 

Temperament and characteristics

 

Pugs are playful, and affectionate and can sometimes be a bit mischievous which makes them great for families and individuals. They are a small dog breed that are great for apartments and adaptable to any type of home.

 

Training and exercise requirements

 

Pugs are happy with short daily walks and indoor playtime, they can be stubborn at times and aren't suitable for active families that want to go on long walks or hikes

 

Health concerns and lifespan

 

Pugs have an average lifespan of 12-15 years and aren't the healthiest breed. They are susceptible to brachycephalic syndrome, obesity, and eye problems.

 

For more detailed information on the Pug breed check out our free breed finder tool. You can read real owner reviews, the average cost to keep one, and more detailed information on their temperament and characteristics on our free breed finder tool here.

 

3. Shih Tzu

 

Overview and history

 

Another dog breed great for a first time dog owner and originating in China is the Shih Tzu. It was originally bred as a literal lap dog and to keep its owners warm during cold winters in Tibet. Its name means 'lion dog' and they were often used by nobility and royals.

 

Temperament and characteristics

 

Smart, affectionate, and adaptable to most living situations. They are relatively easy to care for and they are also hypoallergenic. They have hair instead of fur so do need the occasional haircut otherwise it will keep on growing!

 

This is one of my favorite breeds for people looking for a great small easy-going dog!

 

Training and exercise requirements

 

They are highly intelligent so given enough time can be taught a variety of tricks but they can also be stubborn so it does require a bit more patience compared with other breeds.

 

They don't need a massive amount of exercise so short daily walks are ok and they are happy to play indoors to get some energy out too.

 

Health concerns and lifespan

 

They live between 12-16 years and are generally a healthy breed especially compared to the Pug. However, as they are a pedigree breed they can develop hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies.

 

Getting one from the right breeder that has screened for these issues can reduce the chances of inherited health problems.

 

For more detailed information on the Shih Tzu breed check out our free breed finder tool. You can read real owner reviews, the average cost to keep one, and more detailed information on their temperament and characteristics on our free breed finder tool here.

 

4. Bichon Frise

 

Overview and history

 

One of the best dogs for first time owners or seniors is the Bichon Frise. They are one of the oldest dog breeds and were originally bred as companion dogs in France.

 

Temperament and characteristics

 

As they were bred as companion dogs they are friendly to people and other pets making them great for families or seniors. They are also very affectionate and intelligent.

 

Training and exercise requirements

 

Bichon Frise has moderate exercise requirements and needs a daily walk and some indoor play. As they are highly intelligent they are fairly easy to train too.

 

Health concerns and lifespan

 

They are hypoallergenic making them low maintenance and are relatively healthy dogs. They can be prone to allergies, hip dysplasia, and patellar luxation.

 

For more detailed information on the Bichon Frise breed check out our free breed finder tool. You can read real owner reviews, the average cost to keep one, and more detailed information on their temperament and characteristics on our free breed finder tool here.

 

5. Yorkshire Terrier

 

Overview and history

 

Originating in 19th-century England, the Yorkshire Terrier was bred to catch rats in textile mills, displaying their tenacious and brave nature.

 

Temperament and characteristics

 

Also known as Yorkies, Yorkshire Terriers have energetic and lovable personalities. Despite being a small dog they have a lively temperament making them a fun dog for households with children.

 

Training and exercise requirements

 

Intelligent and active, this breed is on the higher end of energy requirements due to what they were originally bred for (catching rats) but nothing unmanageable for busy individuals or families. Indoor play sessions or an hour long walk should be enough to keep them happy.

 

Health concerns and lifespan

 

Yorkshire Terriers have an average lifespan of 12-15 years but can be prone to certain health issues, such as dental problems, luxating patellas, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. Make sure you get one from a reputable breeder if you are getting a puppy.

 

For more detailed information on the Yorkshire Terrier breed check out our free breed finder tool. You can read real owner reviews, the average cost to keep one, and more detailed information on their temperament and characteristics on our free breed finder tool here.

 

Medium Dog Breeds Good for 1st Time Owners:

 

1. Beagle

 

Overview and history

 

Originating from England, the Beagle's history dates back to the 1500s as a scent hound bred for hunting small game. They have an exceptional sense of smell, compact size, and friendly disposition have made them a favorite among dog lovers worldwide.

 

Temperament and characteristics

 

Beagles have a friendly temperament and love being with humans. They are incredibly friendly with strangers and have enough energy to keep up with kids. They can be quite independent and are not too clingy making them a great choice for active owners.

 

Training and exercise requirements

 

Beagles are active dogs that do need a good 1 hour walk each day and mental stimulation. They love to play fetch and do sniff work. They are highly food motivated which makes them easy to train/

 

Health concerns and lifespan

 

Beagles are generally healthy dogs and can live between 10-12 years old but do have some health conditions they are prone to like ear infections, obesity, allergies and epilepsy.

For more detailed information on the Beagle breed check out our free breed finder tool.  You can read real owner reviews, the average cost to keep one and more detailed information on their temperament and characteristics on our free breed finder tool here.

 

2. Pembroke Welsh Corgi

 

Overview and history

 

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi or more simply known as the Corgi originates in Pembrokeshire, Wales. It was originally used to herd livestock and horses and has been owned for decades by the English Royal family.

 

Temperament and characteristics

 

Corgis love companionship and hanging out with their owners. Whether its cuddling on the couch or going on walks they love being with their owners. They are friendly and playful and love to follow you around the house.

 

As they are herding animals then expect them to chase your cat about if you have one!

 

Training and exercise requirements

 

Corgis are intelligent breeds and can easily get bored so might not be the best breed for busy people or people who are away from home for long periods of time.

 

They need mental stimulation to keep them engaged and plenty of daily exercise due to their high levels of energy.

 

Health concerns and lifespan

 

Corgis live for up to 15+ years and are relatively healthy if given the right food and supplements. They are prone to becoming overweight so a high-quality diet is essential.

 

For more detailed information on the Corgi breed check out our free breed finder tool. You can read real owner reviews, the average cost to keep one, and more detailed information on their temperament and characteristics on our free breed finder tool here.

 

3. Springer Spaniel

 

Overview and history

 

Originating in England, the Springer Spaniel is a lively and versatile breed, used for centuries as an exceptional hunting companion.

 

Temperament and characteristics

 

Springer Spaniels are good with kids, friendly, and super intelligent. They are a great breed for first time owners who live an active lifestyle.

 

Training and exercise requirements

 

They were originally bred as hunting dogs which means they can run all day long and have a lot of energy. They are not suitable for non-active owners or for owners that don't have the time to walk them and tire them out properly each day (1.5 hrs+).

 

They are highly intelligent and are often used as sniffer dogs by the Police making them easy to train.

 

Health concerns and lifespan

 

With an average lifespan of 12-14 years, Springer Spaniels are generally healthy but can be prone to certain genetic conditions, such as hip dysplasia and eye disorders.

 

For more detailed information on the Springer Spaniel breed check out our free breed finder tool. You can read real owner reviews, the average cost to keep one, and more detailed information on their temperament and characteristics on our free breed finder tool here.

 

4. Standard Schnauzer

 

Overview and history

 

Originating in Germany, the Standard Schnauzer is a versatile, intelligent breed with a rich history as a working farm dog.

 

Initially bred for multiple uses such as ratting or guarding livestock they make great companions for active first time owners.

 

Temperament and characteristics

 

Due to how they were originally bred Schnauzers can be quite protective of their owners and property and are known to be a bit yappy if not trained properly.

 

They are loving and affectionate with their owners and play well with kids making them a great first dog for families.

 

Training and exercise requirements

 

They are incredibly smart but can be a bit stubborn at times but are still relatively easy to train. They have high energy requirements but a good daily vigorous walk will be enough to keep them happy.

 

Health concerns and lifespan

 

Standard Schnauzers enjoy a relatively long lifespan of 12-14 years and are generally a healthy breed compared to others on this list. Regular check-ups and preventative care can help address common health concerns, such as hip dysplasia and eye conditions.

 

For more detailed information on the Standard Schnauzer breed check out our free breed finder tool. You can read real owner reviews, the average cost to keep one and more detailed information on their temperament and characteristics on our free breed finder tool here.

 

5. Staffordshire Bull Terrier

 

Overview and history

 

They originated in so-called 'blood sports' in 19th century England which involved putting two dogs in a ring and them essentially fighting to the death. They are essentially a mixed breed dog and have bulldog, terrier, and some other unknown varieties in their lineage.

 

Over time they have been bred for completely different characteristics than their original purpose and are now one of the best dogs for families due to their friendly temperament.

 

Temperament and characteristics

 

Often referred to as the 'Nanny Dog' Staffordshire Bull Terriers or 'Staffs' for short are wonderful dogs with humans and children. They are eager to please, loving of their owners, and super loyal. They are affectionate dogs and super patient with kids and their owners. They love nothing more than cuddling on the sofa with them or going on adventures.

 

They are highly adaptable so can be suitable for small apartments and larger homes and as long as they are with their owners and exercised regularly they are also happy to laze about the house.

 

They aren't as good with other dogs as some breeds on the list and can be prone to same-sex aggression but given enough socializing when younger this can often help with this.

 

Training and exercise requirements

 

Staffs are very smart dogs and combined with their eagerness to please makes they are one of the most trainable breeds. They are lively dogs due to the terrier in them so do require a bit of patience to get them to the level you want them to be but once they are trained they are amazing.

 

They need a lot of exercise to keep them happy and will need about 2 x 45 minutes a day of vigorous exercise.

 

Health concerns and lifespan

 

Staffs are relatively healthy dogs as they have a lot of different breeds in their lineage and can live for around 12 years with some living as long as 20! I personally knew a staff that lived for 19 years before she passed and she had been run over by a car, beat cancer and still lived to a ripe old age!

 

Like all dogs, they do suffer from some common health issues like hereditary cataracts which can be screened for by reputable breeders.

 

For more detailed information on the Staffordshire Bull Terrier breed check out our free breed finder tool. You can read real owner reviews, the average cost to keep one and more detailed information on their temperament and characteristics on our free breed finder tool here.

 

Large Dog Breeds Good for 1st Time Owners:

 

1. Labrador Retriever

 

Overview and history

 

The Labrador retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. They originated in Newfoundland and were used as helpers for local fisherman to help retrieve fish and tow in lines and then English Hunters saw their retrieving characteristics would be beneficial to use as a hunting companion in the 1830s onwards.

 

Temperament and characteristics

 

Labs are known for their freindly, easy-going temperament making them create dogs for first time owners. They love everyone in the household including elders and children. They are gentle and patient around kids and good with other animals if given the proper socialisation

 

Training and exercise requirements

 

Due to being a working dog they do need vigorous daily exercise but if you get a showline labrador instead of a working line labrador then they are a bit more relaxed and need slightly less exercise. Some of their favourite games are fetch and they are easy to train as they are a very intelligent and obediant breed.

 

Health concerns and lifespan

 

Labrador retrievers are healthy dogs and can live for 12years+ but can be prone to hip and elbow displasia and cataracts. Make sure to get one from a reputable breeder if raising from a puppy and to have regular visits to the local vet to reduce the chances of a problem getting worst.

 

For more detailed information on the Labrador Retriever breed check out our free breed finder tool. You can read real owner reviews, the average cost to keep one and more detailed information on their temperament and characteristics on our free breed finder tool here.

 

2. Golden Retriever

 

Overview and history

 

Golden retrievers were originally bred to, you guessed it, retrieve game on hunts in Scotland and were created by a man called Sir Dudley to create a superior gundog that was happy in the rain or mud and could accompany him on long hunts. It took over 50 years to produce the modern-day Golden Retriever.

 

Temperament and characteristics

 

Golden retrievers are known as one of the friendliest even tempered dog breeds and get along with pretty much everyone. They are lovable, super friendly, and easy going. One of the best dogs for families with small children they are incredibly patient and gentle to play with.

 

One thing to bare in mind is that they molt a lot so if you don't want to be hoovering every day then it might not be the best breed for you.

 

Training and exercise requirements

 

Golden retrievers do have high exercise requirements and need to be walked or run for at least an hour each day + kept mentally stimulated. They are very intelligent but can be easily distracted if toys are left out or if they make a new best friend on a walk. Training them is relatively easy for basic and advanced obedience and this is reflected in them often being used as service or therapy dogs.

 

Health concerns and lifespan

 

The Golden Retriever lives between 10-12 years. They are generally robust and healthy but they can be prone to some health issues such as hip & elbow displaysia, cataracts and cancer. They have the highest rate of cancer amongst all breeds! They do tend to develop this in later ages but it is something to be aware of.

 

For more detailed information on the Golden Retriever breed check out our free breed finder tool. You can read real owner reviews, the average cost to keep one and more detailed information on their temperament and characteristics on our free breed finder tool here.

 

3. Boxer

 

Overview and history

 

Boxers were used as working dogs and originated in Germany. They were used to accompany hunters on wild boar or bear hunts. The name 'Boxer' originates from how they play with other dogs or owners by using their front paws hence having similarities to Boxers.

 

Temperament and characteristics

 

Boxers are affectionate and loyal to their family members and are great with children. They are a protective breed so can be good for personal protection and are energetic, comical and playful. They do need to be watched if left to play with small children as their boisterous energy can sometimes spill over and they can unintentionally knock them over.

 

Training and exercise requirements

 

Boxers are super playful and as they are a working breed they need a lot of vigourous exercise so are good options for active owners. As they take a longer to mature than other dog breeds they can be more challenging to train but if you make training sessions short and fun plus use a lot of positive reinforcement then it can massively help.

 

Health concerns and lifespan

 

Boxers live between 10-12 years. They are prone to specific health issues such as hip dysplasia, heart conditions, and certain cancers so make sure you get yours from a health screened breeder or take them to the vet to get screened if getting a rescue.

 

For more detailed information on the Boxer breed check out our free breed finder tool. You can read real owner reviews, the average cost to keep one and more detailed information on their temperament and characteristics on our free breed finder tool here.

 

4. Standard Poodle

 

Overview and history

 

Poodles are one of the most ancient dog breeds and were one of the first dog breeds ever recorded in existence! They were frequently mentioned in ancient Rome however, it is unknown if they are the same genetic makeup as the modern day poodle. The standard poodle was popularised in France as a companion and working water dog.

 

Temperament and characteristics

 

Poodles are quite a sensitive breed and can be shy around strangers. They hate loud noises and anyone in the family raising their voice. They are very loving to their family owners and have mild protective instincts which means they can be more prone to barking at moving objects outside the house. If not properly socialized they can become skittish outside of the house so this is vital to get a well-balanced dog.

 

Training and exercise requirements

 

They are the 2nd most intelligent dog breed (Border Collie is number 1) which makes them need more mental stimulation than other breeds but also makes them easy to train given a lot of positive reinforcement. They are very active dogs so do need vigorous exercise daily to get some of their nervous energy out.

 

Health concerns and lifespan

 

Choosing a reputable breeder for the poodle will avoid most health issuse and they are a fairly healthy breed overall. They can be prone Addisons Disease and bloat if they eat too fast.

 

For more detailed information on the Standard Poodles breed check out our free breed finder tool. You can read real owner reviews, the average cost to keep one and more detailed information on their temperament and characteristics on our free breed finder tool here.

 

5. Gordon Setter

 

Overview and history

 

The Gordon Setter originated in Scotland and was used as a wroking dog for it's retrieving skills when accompanying hunters. It became popular with the nobility who had large estates.

 

Temperament and characteristics

 

They have an affectionate and mellow temperament and love being in the company with their owners, other pets or children making them great family dogs for first time owners. They can be quite mischeavous but are very fun if exercised properly and are very friendly to other people too making it easy to make new friends on walks.

 

Training and exercise requirements

 

As they were originally bred as working dogs they do require a lot of exercise making them perfect for active owners. If you love going on long hikes or bike rides then they are a great companion.

 

Gordon Setters are slower learners even though they are smart so do require more patience throughout training and can be a bit stubborn too.

 

Health concerns and lifespan

 

They live 10-12 years and can be prone to deafness and hip/elbow dysplasia. Some are even prone to epilepsy which is why a reputable breeder is a must before getting one so they are properly health screened.

 

For more detailed information on the Gordon Setter breed check out our free breed finder tool. You can read real owner reviews, the average cost to keep one, and more detailed information on their temperament and characteristics on our free breed finder tool here.

 

Conclusion

 

In conclusion, finding the perfect canine companion as a first-time dog owner is a crucial but often times overwhelming experience. Our comprehensive guide, featuring 15 ideal small, medium, and large dog breeds, offers a variety of options to suit different lifestyles and preferences.

 

If you want to read more detailed information on any of the breeds mentioned + some more of the best dogs suitable for a first-time owner then head over to our free dog breed finder tool and use the filters to find matches to your lifestyle today!