We’re a nation of dog lovers, with around one-in-three households including at least one four-legged friend.
By far the most popular pet in the UK, they make for wonderful companions, all the while improving both our mental and physical health - and that’s a scientific fact.
The army of dog owners continues to grow, with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds.
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.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
There’s also always the option of adopting a dog from a dog shelter for a minimal fee - for example from the Dogs Trust.
One thing you might like to consider when it comes to picking a pup is that some breeds are more likely to bite than others - it’s simply in their DNA.
Of course any dog is capable of delivering a painful bite, while most dogs of any breed are unlikely to do any damage unless seriously provoked, but there are certain breeds who have temperaments making them more likely to bite than others.
Here are the 26 breeds most - and least - likely to bite.
5. Doberman Pinscher
The Dobermann - or Doberman Pinscher - is a natural born alert guard dog. It means that they are hard-wired to bite if they perceive there to be a threat to their territory and their owners. That's great if there is actually a threat, but the key is to train hem to ensure they never bite inappropriately. It's one of the reasons that these dogs don't make great pets for inexperienced owners - you really need to know what you are doing when it comes to these pups. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Pekingese
Beloved as classic lapdog and companion dog - they were first bred as such by members of Chinese royalty - the Pekingese is very territorial and may nip if they feel crowded or threatened. If you aren't a familiar face, you probably don't want to risk picking up a Pekingese. | Canva/Getty Images
7. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a fiercely loyal and protective dog, meaning that there's no danger of their owner getting a bite. Issues can arrive when they think their owner is being threatened, or simply if they take against a stranger, leading to a chance of a bite. It means they should be kept under strict control all the time. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Chihuahua
When you're as tiny as a Chihuahua it's perhaps not surprising that you feel the need to stamp your authority on situations. This can result in the tiny pups being both noisy and nippy - traits that need to be dealt with early in life or they may become permanent. | Canva/Getty Images