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.
One thing to take into consideration is whether you are an experienced or new dog owner, with certain breeds far more challenging than others for newcomers to the canine club.
Of course, depending on your lifestyle and circumstances there’s no one size fits all approach – but first time owners should consider breeds that tend to be easy to train, eager to please, and friendly.
Here are 21 of the best dogs for first-time puppy parents.
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17. English Springer Spaniel
There are few breeds that are more eager to please than the English Springer Spaniel. They are cheerful and affectionate and like to stick close to their owner. They are dogs that need plenty of exercise though - so one for those that like a good walk. | Getty Images for Westminster Ken
18. Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs are intelligent, affectionate and highly responsive to training. They’re excellent for beginners who enjoy teaching and engaging with their dogs, though their intelligence, energy and coat require commitment. | Getty Images for Westminster Ken
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19. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Adaptable to city, country or suburban life, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is medium-sized breed of dog that is more easygoing that many of their terrier cousins. They need a decent amount of daily exercise and make a great first-time dog for a family. | AFP via Getty Images
20. Maltese
The Maltese is another breed delighted to just curl up and nap for most of the time - not needing exercise. Naturally friendly and easy to train, it's impossible to not be happy with one of these cute characters around. | Getty Images