There are few things more exciting in life than becoming a dog owner for the first time. However, with this excitement comes a fair share of anxiety and foreseeable challenge. Welcoming a puppy into your home is often compared to welcoming a new baby into your life. With such profound responsibility now resting on your shoulders, it’s your job to ensure your pup’s quality of life is the absolute best. Make no mistake, dog ownership is a huge deal, which is why you should carefully consider every facet of your life and needs before making the leap.

There are so many different dog breeds out there, which means it can be quite the task to determine which breed is best for your lifestyle. There are a few factors to keep in mind before you decide on the best breed for you.

Why does breed matter?

Although most people might think that dog breed only matters to cater to your aesthetic needs and cuteness-level preferences, there are actually very real and grounded reasons to be intentional about your breed selection. Every dog breed originated with a specific purpose and goal—some are bred for hunting, some are bred for herding, some are bred for lounging on human laps. This is where your lifestyle comes into play.

Let’s say that you’re a remote telecommuter who spends the vast majority of your days inside, at your desk. A hyperactive dog, like a Dalmatian, German Shepherd, or Vizsla require a substantial amount of outdoor exercise to maintain their quality of life and satiate their innate energy levels. These types of dogs are best for those with more flexible schedules and a love of the outdoors—runners, hikers, and campers, we’re talking to you!

Ultimately, dog breed matters because behavior matters. In order to ensure you’re able to give your dog a great life, you need to make sure your dog’s genetic behavior aligns with your behavior.

What are the best first-time dog breeds?

Wondering which dog breeds are the best for first-time owners? We’ve compiled a list of our top 10 best pups for novice pet parents. Our list is comprised of dog breeds that are generally described as trainable, friendly, confident, and playful.

#1: Bichon Frise

Beyond their adorable fluffy white coat, Bichon Frises are the total package. They’re smart, hypoallergenic, and fun to be around. They are extremely communicative dogs, meaning that they will not hesitate to let you know when they need attention. Playful and pleasant, Bichon Frises enjoy games and cuddling—the perfect duo for families with children and first-time owners.

Energy Level: Medium

Life Span‎: ‎12 to 15 years

#2: Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Affectionate, intelligent, and outgoing, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is eager to please, upbeat, and athletic. Like most retriever breeds, Tollers are full of life and enthusiasm. They’re smart and affectionate companions that love to be outside. Those with more active lifestyles will have infallible companions on hikes, walks, and runs.

Energy Level: Moderate-high

Life Span‎: ‎10 to 14 years

#3: Basset Hound

Basset Hounds are known to be among the most loyal dog breeds out there. Best characterized by their long bodies and iconic floppy ears, these dogs enjoy spending time with humans and tend to be couch potatoes after puppyhood. Despite their lazy nature, it’s important for them to still get some regular exercise to keep their agile and healthy build.

Energy Level: Low

Life Span‎: ‎10 to 12 years

#4: Labrador

The Labrador is the quintessential family pup. These happy, affectionate, and playful dogs are incredibly intelligent, trainable, and friendly. When it comes to first-time dog breeds, few outshine the Lab. Eager to please and lovers of the outdoors, these fluffy friends are amazing companions to all types of personalities and lifestyles.

Energy Level: Medium

Life Span‎: ‎10 to 12 years

#5: Bernese Mountain Dog

Originating from the Swiss Alps, Bernese Mountain Dogs are some of the most recognizable dog breeds. Their gorgeous black, white, and brown coats are adored across the globe. Known for being self-confident, alert, and friendly, Berners are amazing first-time fur friends. They love the outdoors and thrive on exercise and games. It is worth noting that due to a number of health concerns, Bernese Mountain Dogs have significantly shorter lifespans than other dogs of their size and power.

Energy Level: Medium-high

Life Span‎: 6 to 8 years

#6: Greyhound

Greyhounds are originally racing dogs, however, despite their incredibly active origins, they are amazing household pets. They’re calm and affectionate companions that are incredibly sweet and low-maintenance. Greyhounds are sharp, gentle, and quiet, making for amazing first dogs.

Energy Level: Medium

Life Span‎: ‎10 to 14 years

#7: Great Dane

Danes are massive couch potatoes that are known for being patient, loving, and cuddly. Despite their giant build, Great Danes are incredibly gentle, friendly, and amazing human companions. Though they may be slobbery, they are easy to care for, no-fuss pets.

Energy Level: Low-medium

Life Span‎: 8 to 10 years

#8: Poodle

There’s a reason why Poodles are regarded as some of the most popular and versatile dog breeds. Available in three sizes— toy, miniature, and standard—Poodles of all sizes are smart, agile, obedient, and faithful. Because they respond so well to training, they make for great first-time pups. Their fluffy, curly coat will need to be groomed regularly to maintain their elegant appearance.

Energy Level: Medium-high

Life Span‎: 12 to 10 years

#9: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are sweet, affectionate dogs that are adored for their puppy-like appearance. While they may be smaller pups, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have bursting personalities that are sociable, playful, and affectionate. Cavaliers can thrive in all types of active and non-active households and tend to get along well with children of all ages and other pets.

Energy Level: Low-medium

Life Span‎: 9 to 14 years

#10: Samoyed

Originating from the Samoyedic peoples of Siberia, Samoyeds are beautiful, fluffy white working dogs. Although they can be strong-willed at times, they are ceaselessly friendly, gentle, and devoted pups. As long as you can handle regular grooming and don’t mind white fur all over your clothing and furniture, a Samoyed makes for an amazing first dog.

Energy Level: Medium

Life Span‎: 12 to 13 years

Wrapping up

Picking out the perfect dog breed for your lifestyle can be difficult with so many adorable options available to you. Fortunately, there is so much information out there about every single type of breed, meaning a little research can go a long way. With this list, narrowing down your options is made simple!

Author Bio

Tom Massey has owned and operated Snowy Pines Labradors for over a decade. They have become the leaders in English Labradors in the US. He and his team serve customers all over the US and Europe. They house their "dog family" in a state of the art facility on a large farm in the Ozark Mountains. With an obsession for genetics and temperament they raise and train dogs known across the globe for health and personality. Tom serves the pet industry in many forms campaigning for ethical breeding, training, and pet ownership.