These 20 Dog Breeds Are Ideal for You If You’re Getting Your First Pet

If you’ve never had a pet before—or if you haven’t owned a dog yet—it’s a good idea to research which breed best fits your lifestyle. Not every dog breed is suited for every person, so it’s smart to start with one that’s particularly beginner-friendly.

Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is known for its friendly and patient temperament, making it an excellent choice for new dog owners. This breed is smart, easy to train, and loves spending time with the family—perfect for an active household.

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a gentle, loving, and reliable dog that’s easy to train. With its natural friendliness toward both kids and adults, this breed is ideal for first-time dog owners.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This small, charming dog is both adaptable and affectionate. It thrives in both urban and rural settings, and its calm demeanor makes it a great companion for families looking for a secure and sociable friend.

Beagle

The Beagle is a curious and energetic dog that loves to explore its surroundings. Its generally friendly and outgoing nature makes it a great partner for new dog owners who want an active and engaging companion.

Poodle

Poodles are incredibly smart, easy to train, and come in various sizes (toy, miniature, and standard). Their hypoallergenic coat and versatile personality make them a popular choice for first-time dog owners.

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy, and friendly dog that does very well indoors. Its calm and loving nature makes it an ideal companion for anyone looking for a low-maintenance pet with plenty of character.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a cheerful and playful dog with a warm heart. Its hypoallergenic coat and friendly temperament make it a great option for families and first-time dog owners seeking a small, lively companion.

Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are known for their gentle and loving nature. They are easy to train and adapt well to different lifestyles, making them an excellent choice for those owning a dog for the first time.

Boxer

Boxers are energetic, loyal, and protective dogs who love to play and exercise. Despite their active nature, they are also very affectionate and patient with children, making them a great family dog for first-time owners.

English Bulldog

The English Bulldog has a calm and loving temperament, making it well-suited for a more relaxed lifestyle. With a low activity level and a friendly personality, this breed is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a loyal, laid-back companion.

Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is known for its intelligence, alertness, and devotion. This small but spirited dog is easy to train and adapts well to various living environments—ideal for first-time dog owners.

Dachshund

Dachshunds are lively and brave little dogs who love being part of the family. They are known for their friendly nature and adaptability, though they can sometimes be a bit stubborn—making them a good choice for new owners willing to invest a little extra time in training.

Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie)

The Sheltie is an intelligent, friendly, and obedient dog that loves staying active with its family. Its eagerness to learn and trainability make it a fantastic choice for first-time owners seeking a dog with plenty of energy and loyalty.

Havanese

The Havanese is a small, affectionate, and lively dog that thrives in a home with plenty of attention. It’s easy to train and loves being close to its family, making it an ideal companion for first-time dog owners.

Pug

The Pug is a charming and sociable dog with a loving and playful personality. Its adaptability and generally calm temperament make it a great choice for new dog owners looking for a small yet sturdy pet.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

This intelligent and friendly dog is both energetic and affectionate. Known for its adaptability and loyalty, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a popular and versatile companion for first-time dog owners.

French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is a small, muscular dog with a loving and friendly disposition. It requires minimal exercise and is easy to care for, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a pet with plenty of character and low-maintenance needs.

Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are lively and friendly, easy to train, and adapt well to various living situations. Their intelligent and social nature makes them excellent companions for first-time dog owners.

Maltese

The Maltese is a small, elegant, and friendly dog that thrives in a home where it receives plenty of attention. Easy to train and adaptable to both urban and rural environments, this breed is a great choice for new dog owners.

Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, calm, and loyal breed that strikes a wonderful balance between strength and gentleness. It’s ideal for first-time owners who have enough space and time to provide the exercise and affection this dog needs, and who dream of a steadfast family friend.