Dogs come in all shapes and sizes - the UK Kennel Club recognises 221 different pedigree dogs, 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’ to lovable mongrels.
Each has its own list of positive and negative attributes, and it’s important to take plenty of time to think about what breed will fit into your lifestyle the best - for instance a smaller dog if you live in a flat, or a hypoallergenic dog if the mere mention of dog hair makes you think about sneezing.
There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
Different breeds of dog also tend to have very different personalities – with some more likely to lash out with nips, nibbles and even bites.
While most dogs of any breed are unlikely to do any damage unless seriously provoked, there are certain breeds who have temperaments that make them less likely to lash out.
Here are the 12 breeds of dog that are least likely to bite humans.
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9. Whippet
Academic studies into how aggressive certain breeds of dog are regularly find that the Whippet is one of the most passive pups - and one of the laziest. They need to be vigorously exercised once a day but otherwise will be unlikely to bother lifting their head off the couch, never mind attempting to bite somebody. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Golden Retriever
What's true for the Labrador Retriever tends to also be true of its close cousin the Golden Retriever - including the risk of biting. An affectionate nibble if you are having a play with a favourite toy is the worst you tend to expect from this loving and friendly breed. | Canva/Getty Images
11. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
When it comes to the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the main motivation is an overriding eagerness to please its owners. Even if one of these beautiful dogs does have a wee nip, when it realises it has displeased its owners, it's unlikely to do it again because it will feel so guilty about it. | Canva/Getty Images
12. Bernese Mountain Dog
Another gentle giant, the Bernese Mountain Dog is an intelligent breed eager to please its owners - meaning it's simple to train them out of any nibbling habit they may have as pups. | Canva/Getty Images