If you’ve been thinking about welcoming a new dog into your home then you’re in good company – Royal Kennel Club (the new name for the UK Kennel Club) stats show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels.
Dogs come in all shapes, colours and sizes - there are 221 different pedigree dogs recognised by breeders in the UK, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
Then there are all manner of crossbreeds, from so-called ‘designer dogs’ like the popukar Labradoodle (half Labrador, half Poodle) to lovable mongrels.
So there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or an easy to train dog.
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There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
Many dogs need plenty of attention to keep their coats in good order – with daily brushing an essential and regular visits to a professional groomer important to keep them in tip-top condition and prevent them from becoming a bit stinky.
Other breeds simply have a natural smell that’s pretty much impossible to negate - we’re looking at you Labrador Retriever (although the majority of owners would say they love the distinctive Lab odour).
Meanwhile others are pretty much self-cleaning and create very little odour.
Here are the 13 cleanest breeds of dog.
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9. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers should only be bathed when it's absolutely essential, although their face should be washed each day with a damp cloth. Other than that, an occasional brush will get rid of excess hair and condition the dog's skin. | AFP via Getty Images
10. Chinese Crested
Like the Xoloitzcuintli, the Chinese Crested has little in the way of body hair negating problems with shedding and meaning they are simple to keep clean, even after a roll in something terrible. It should be noted, owever, that its exposed skin does need regular cleaning to remain healthy. | Getty Images
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11. Weimaraner
The Weimaraner needs plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy but, short of a bath if they roll in something unpleasant, their velvety coat barely needs brushed. | AFP via Getty Images
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12. Whippet
Similar to their close cousins the Italian Greyhound, Whippets have an extremely short, smooth coat that produces little odour and sheds very little hair. They rarely need bathing so are ideal for prospective owners who can't stand the thought of a home that 'smells of dog'. | AFP via Getty Images