Who’s the top dog? A comprehensive guide to choosing dog breeds

You have to evaluate your way of living before getting a dog? What the fluff? Yep! Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, with all types of personalities and different needs. We’ve created this comprehensive guide that takes you on a walk … err … guides you in the right direction when choosing a canine companion. Follow the links provided for more specifics about dog ownership. 

Best active dogs

Do you love to run? Or hike? Or ride bikes? With your furry friend named Spike? Perfect! Get yourself a dog that needs hours of outdoor entertainment, just like you. Working dogs — herding or hunting breeds — are great for this lifestyle. 

Responsible dog owner tip: Active breeds usually require extra training to ensure they get what they need while also learning to be well behaved outdoors. 

It's a race to see who can have the most fun outside!

• Border collie: The dog that wants a job, whether herding sheep or closely following you on your mountain bike.

• Australian shepherd: With tons of energy, these dogs are often trail running buddies.

• Brittany: Hyper and affectionate, this bird dog wants to be your companion on the couch and in the woods.

• German shorthaired pointer: This one wants to sniff wildflowers all day long. And then cuddle.

• German shepherd: This intimidating looking sweetheart requires lots of time and meaningful training. They’ll need activities with a purpose, like agility courses or search and rescue training. 

Apartment-friendly dogs

How do you include four-legged friends in smaller spaces? This can be tricky. That’s why it’s important to choose breeds that don't require as much space to roam. Finding a dog with less energy can prevent mishaps, i.e. your apartment being torn apart because they don’t have enough room for the zoomies.

You’ll also need to consider a dog’s temperament. An unfriendly, nervous or barky dog can get you in trouble when living in an apartment. Consider the dog’s size, too.

A quick walk around the apartment complex, then back to snoozing on the couch.

• Bulldog: Ever heard of a couch potato? This breed prefers a short walk, followed by binge watching your favorite show.

• Shih tzu: This spritely toy dog breed only needs a small space to chase toys.

• Cavalier King Charles spaniel: King of the Lapdogs. This small breed loves their owners deeply, but will be OK alone in the apartment for longer periods of time.

• Bichon frise: This cheerful little pal will be happy with a short stroll around the block.

• Maltese: This chill, small breed enjoys lots of company and lots of cuddles.    

Family friendly dog breeds

Dogs living with growing families need patience and a deep love for full- and puppy-sized humans. Temperament is key when choosing a dog to be around kiddos. So are energy levels. A herding dog CAN be family friendly, but will it terrorize your children if Fido wants to play his favorite game of herding children into a corner? Perhaps a mellower breed is a better choice. 

Part of the family, part of the fun.

• Golden retriever: Perhaps the gold standard (ha) for family dogs, this breed is easygoing, loving and loyal. 

• Labrador retriever: This breed is spirited and down to play with anyone, including little ones. 

• Beagle: High energy, but extremely playful and gentle around kids. 

• Goldendoodle: Friendly and trainable, these popular fuzzy pals will match the energy of your kiddos.

Best dogs for first-time owners

Dogs are a gargantuan responsibility, no matter how small the breed. When getting a dog for the first time, it’s best to choose one that won’t completely overwhelm you. For most first-time dog owners, we advise skipping a herding or hunting breed. Instead, choose dogs known to be quick to train with minimal behavioral issues.

Dogs so well behaved they get their own furniture. 

• Golden retriever: Another mention for this gold star breed — they’re so sweet they’ll make you want 15 more dogs.

• Labrador retriever: America's favorite dog is back, this time to make you fall in love with being a dog owner for the first time. 

• Boston terrier: This breed is known for its gentlemanly/gentlewomanly ways. They’re adaptable, affectionate and good natured. 

• Boxer: This breed is the epitome of a silly goose. They’re higher energy but affectionate and gentle.

Low-shedding dogs

Ruh-roh. Does dog dander give you the sniffles? Or maybe you just don’t want to clean up little fur remnants from the couch all doggone day long. A lower shedding breed can sometimes mean more groomers visits, so keep that in mind.

Minimal shedding and maximum style points.

• Miniature schnauzer

• Yorkshire terrier

• Bichon frise

• Dachshund

• Maltese

• Poodle

• Shih tzu

Large family friendly dog breeds

Nothing like a horse-sized pal thinking he’s a lapdog. If you and your kids like more fluff to cuddle, choose one of these oversized, family friendly dog breeds.

A big lug who just wants to be with the family.

• Bernese mountain dog, up to 115 pounds

• Great Dane, up to 200 pounds

• Newfoundland, up to 150 pounds

• Saint Bernard, up to 180 pounds 

Small family friendly dog breeds  

Dogs and toddlers tend to get zoomies at the same time. Opt for a smaller, family friend dog breed to minimize the risk of the dog knocking over furniture amid said zoomies.

Just one of the kids.

• Pug, up to 18 pounds

• Bichon frise, up to 18 pounds

• Dachshund, up to 32 pounds

• Papillon, up to 10 pounds 

Dogs for senior companionship

When life has progressed and is a little slower, getting a little furry companion can help stave off loneliness and offer comfort. These breeds are great choices for seniors because of their lower energy levels and ability to bond with their owners. 

A gentle companion for any age group.

• King Charles Cavalier spaniel

• Maltese

• Yorkshire terrier

• Pomeranian

• Shih tzu

• Toy poodle

Before getting a dog

There are some essentials you’ll need to have, such as a leash and harness. There are also several things to consider, such as veterinary costs, time you have to care for your dog and your lifestyle. Don’t impulsively get a dog without having the resources or a good plan ahead of time. You’ll also need to consider where you can take your dog and if you’ll need to utilize doggy day care facilities.

Thanks for wagging along! Which breed is your top dog? Find your furry friend on KSL Classifieds.