The 20 best dog breeds for new dog owners

Dogs are a huge commitment. From cheerful Chihuahuas to rowdy Labradors, new dog owners are desperate to make sure their new companion is the right one.

There are a multitude of factors to consider when choosing a furry friend, such as the size of your house or whether you have a garden. Allergies also come into play, as does the owner’s ability to tolerate loud barking or profuse molting.

The dog options can seem endless, so News week researched breeding, grooming and pet sites to put together the perfect dogs for new owners. Take a look below.

20. Bichon Frize

Translated from French, Bichon Frize literally means “curly kneeling dog,” which captures the temperament of these energetic yet peaceful companions.

Small in size, they require less exercise than larger dogs, although their “powdery” coats do require a fair amount of grooming.

19. Border burrows

Sturdy and reliable, these working dogs are suitable for an outdoor lifestyle. Low maintenance thanks to a stiff coat, border terriers are the perfect dogs for roaming the countryside.

18. Cockers

Relatively lively creatures, this breed will need at least an hour of exercise per day.

Owners can look forward to swimming, walking and other adventures with their Spaniels. Highly energetic and prone to barking if bored, these dogs are best suited to an equally active owner.

17. Airedale Terrier

Nicknamed “the King of Terriers”, Airedales are a great choice for those looking for a reliable and versatile dog.

The breed originated in the Aire Valley in Yorkshire, England, and was historically used to catch otters and rats in rivers in the region.

These four-legged troops later made a name for themselves during World War I, carrying medicine and food through the trenches.

16. Welsh Corgis Cardigan

A favorite of Her Majesty The Queen, Corgis are intelligent, affectionate, and unwaveringly loyal.

It is believed to have been around for over 3,000 years, this breed is distinguished by its long tail, which is often compared to the sleeves of a cardigan sweater.

Gentle and without much hassle, these dogs are the perfect companion, whether for a royal household or not.

15. Bearded Collie

Floppy but certainly not stupid, this breed is known for its sheep herding abilities.

Owners only have to watch their Collie do the “beard bounce” – a lively movement of his fur as he runs – to get a measure of this dog’s playfulness.

14. Bernese mountain dog

Despite their massive stature, Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle giants. Gifted with a gentle and affectionate nature, they make reliable family dogs.

Standing over 27 inches at the shoulder, Bernese people may need more room to stretch out, ideally a house with a garden.

13. American Eskimo Dogs

Recognized in two different sizes, miniature and standard, this stunning dog will turn heads with its snow white fur.

Perhaps the only downside is the breed’s tendency to bark, so this is not a breed for sensitive ears or easily upset neighbors.

12. American Staffordshire Terrier

Muscular and stocky, these sociable terriers make trustworthy friends. With a shiny brown and white coat that requires little maintenance, they are easy to care for and adaptable to different environments.

11. Bulldogs

Originally bred to drive cattle to markets, these dogs are calm, slow-moving creatures.

Well suited to apartment living, bulldogs happily waddle around in the comfort of their owners’ homes.

10. sleuths

Contrary to their name, Bloodhounds are a docile but very intelligent breed of dog.

Also known as “sleuth dogs”, these creatures are gifted with a keen sense of smell. Once bred for hunting and tracking, Bloodhounds are often used as sniffer dogs today.

9. Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonkas

Small and pretty dogs, the Bolonkas are originally from around Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Translated from Russian to mean “colorful pocket dog,” they come in a variety of hues including sand brown and salt and pepper gray.

8. Brittany

A true sports dog, this lesser-known breed will indulge in most outdoor activities with a spring in its gait.

Smaller than setters but longer than spaniels, these dogs bring great energy to the park. Ideal for families with equally excitable children, they are eager companions who are ready to please.

7. English setters

Medium-sized dog, known for his alert and agile temperament.

Setters were once used as hunting dogs, so they need a more practical owner who is ready to take quick walks.

6. Golden Retrievers

One of America’s most popular dog breeds, the Golden Retriever is a choice that’s sure to please.

Fun for the whole family, they are gentle dogs although they have historically been used for hunting.

In fact, the name “retriever” is a nod to the breed’s ability to bring back game in good condition.

5. Newfoundland

A huge dog that can weigh up to 150 pounds, this is not a breed that will fit in a purse.

Expect plenty of swimming from Newfoundland, as these were once used by fishermen to reel their nets.

14. Pugs

Well known for their thick wrinkles, pugs may appear unhappy, but they are playful companions.

According to an old legend, Chinese breeders, who perfected the breeding of this dog, favored their folds because they looked like symbols of good fortune in their language.

3. Rhodesian Ridgebacks

These canids have a particularly unusual appearance due to a distinctive ridge, formed by hairs growing in the opposite direction from the rest of the coat.

Ridgebacks can expend a lot of energy enduring long distances at fast speeds, but they are mild-tempered dogs that rarely bark.

2. Beagle

Developed like hunting dogs, these compact dogs need a lot of exercise and attention.

However, they are rewarding pets and have short coats that are easy to groom.

1. Labradors

The countdown couldn’t be complete without this family favorite.

Black, brown or yellow, a wagging tail and limitless energy of a Labrador gives it the # 1 spot as the best breed for new owners.