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’!).
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.
One thing to consider is that some dogs need far more exercise than others – with the likes of the Border Collie requiring several walks a day and plenty of outdoor space at home.
Meanwhile, other types prefer to spend most of their time on the couch or in front of the fire and won’t thank you for much more than a quick trot around the park.
But if you are looking for the best of both worlds, you should consider a medium energy dog – that will keep up with you on outdoor adventures but will also be happy to have lazy days accompanying you as you binge on the latest television boxset.
Here are 13 of the breeds that best fit the bill.
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5. Dachshund
The independently minded (or, in other words, naughty) Dachshund needs a fair amount of exercise to stay healthy but, due to their tiny legs, what feels like a gently amble to you will feel like a marathon to them. | Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Gentle, affectionate and sociable, Cavaliers enjoy leisurely walks and occasional play. Their adaptable nature makes them particularly suited to those who want the perfect balance of exercise and cuddles. | Canva/Getty Images
7. Boston Terrier
Quite a few of the Terrier breeds fit firmly into the high energy category, but the Boston Terrier is more chilled than many of its cousins. Well known for being playful, they'll happy relax at home once they've had their daily dose of adventure. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Shetland Sheepdog
Loyal, gentle and intelligent, Shetland Sheepdogs enjoy moderate exercise, training and interactive play. They thrive on companionship and mental stimulation, balancing activity with comfortable relaxation. | Getty Images