Becoming a dog parent

Becoming a dog parent is a wonderful decision. Most likely, you've previously read or heard something about a few dog breeds that caught your attention. It's important to keep in mind that some dog breeds will suit first-time owners considerably better than others.
As you get ready to welcome a family member who may live in your house for at least 15 years, there are many things to consider.
The dog breed is one of the most popular ways to begin focusing your search. While the breed isn't everything, it's an excellent place to start when looking for your ideal match.

Becoming a dog parent is a wonderful decision. Most likely, you've previously read or heard something about a few dog breeds that caught your attention. It's important to keep in mind that some dog breeds will suit first-time owners considerably better than others.

As you get ready to welcome a family member who may live in your house for at least 15 years, there are many things to consider.

The dog breed is one of the most popular ways to begin focusing your search.

While the breed isn't everything, it's an excellent place to start when looking for your ideal match.

How important is the dog's breed?

All owners should consider the breed. Even if your criteria for a dog are broad, you definitely have certain preferences for things like size, coat type, energy level, and sociability. Many challenging situations come from owners who got themselves into trouble by purchasing a trendy breed that wasn't a good fit for their household.

Each year, there are thousands of pets at the shelter whose owners were the wrong fit. If the humans had spent more time learning about their selected breed, many of these bad matches might have been prevented.
Every dog breed was developed with particular requirements and objectives in mind.

Dogs bred for hunting, protecting, pulling sleds, herding, or sitting on laps will all have temperaments and energy levels that are very different from one another.

For instance, several herding dog mixes are brought to the shelter due to behavioral issues, which are depressingly typical among dogs who are bored and under-challenged. They try to herd cars, bark, dig, and chase kids.

This is the reason the breed is really important for a first-time dog owner and everyone should take their time to research what type of dog would be fitted for their lifestyle.

Breed facts

Size-4 to 7,5 kg

Temperament-calm and friendly with a playful personality

Grooming-they need to be groomed frequently due to their long, double coat that mats easily

Behavior with children-they get along very well with children and babies due to their kind, friendly, and fun personality

Health Concerns-Brachycephaly-it is a malformation of the skull due to their breeding; heart disease, eye issues (caused by eye irritations and excess discharge); hair issues (they don't have fur, they have long hair with can tangle easily); ear issues( ear infections); skin sensitivity (allergies) and they also might develop a stomach sensibility due to their selective appetite

Life expectancy-10 to 16 years (the oldest recorded Shih Tzu has lived 23 years)

Our common history with dogs

The present human-dog interaction is unquestionably unusual. Dogs have occupied a unique position in our lives as man's closest friend, with a common evolutionary history reaching thousands of years. Dogs have developed efficiency at associating with people as a result of domestication and natural selection.

Dogs, for example, are sensitive to our emotional moods as well as our social gestures, and they may communicate with us using complicated signs such as gaze alternation. Furthermore, dogs and people may create complicated attachment bonds that are similar to infant-caregiver interactions.

In the U.S.A 63 million households have a dog, and dogs are present all around the world, which means they became in time, part of our families and being treated alike. In order to live in our homes, dogs have developed the learning ability (with the help of training) to assist people with disabilities.

During World War I, in Germany and United States, dogs were trained to assist people having vision problems. Furthermore, in World War II dogs were also trained for other roles such as agility and hearing assistance.

How important is the dog's breed?

All owners should consider the breed. Even if your criteria for a dog are broad, you definitely have certain preferences for things like size, coat type, energy level, and sociability.

Many challenging situations come from owners who got themselves into trouble by purchasing a trendy breed that wasn't a good fit for their household.

Each year, there are thousands of pets at the shelter whose owners were the wrong fit. If the humans had spent more time learning about their selected breed, many of these bad matches might have been prevented.

Every dog breed was developed with particular requirements and objectives in mind.

Dogs bred for hunting, protecting, pulling sleds, herding, or sitting on laps will all have temperaments and energy levels that are very different from one another.

For instance, several herding dog mixes are brought to the shelter due to behavioral issues, which are depressingly typical among dogs who are bored and under-challenged.

They try to herd cars, bark, dig, and chase kids.

This is the reason the breed is really important for a first-time dog owner and everyone should take their time to research what type of dog would be fitted for their lifestyle.

About mixed breeds

You should be aware that, in comparison to purebred dogs, you are less likely to know what you are getting when you buy or adopt a mixed-breed dog.

This is generally not a major issue for owners. However, having a mixed breed may put you at a disadvantage if you have ambitious competitive agility or hunting aspirations. If you don't have any specific requirements for your dog, mixed-breed dogs are a fantastic choice.

The more breeds mixed into your dog's DNA, the more balanced their temperament will often be. The excessive tendencies of any breed are frequently balanced out by a mix of several varieties.

Technically speaking, mixed breed dogs include Huskadors (Siberian Husky and Labrador Retriever), Pomskies (Siberian Husky and Pomeranian), Labradoodles (Labrador and Poodle), and Goldendoodles (Golden Retriever and Poodle).

This means that their physical and psychological characteristics vary greatly from individual to individual. Because genetics is not a recipe, mixed breeds may not always inherit the greatest qualities of both of their parents.

You should be aware that, in comparison to purebred dogs, you are less likely to know what you are getting when you buy or adopt a mixed-breed dog.

This is generally not a major issue for owners.

However, having a mixed breed may put you at a disadvantage if you have ambitious competitive agility or hunting aspirations.

If you don't have any specific requirements for your dog, mixed-breed dogs are a fantastic choice.

The more breeds mixed into your dog's DNA, the more balanced their temperament will often be. The excessive tendencies of any breed are frequently balanced out by a mix of several varieties.

Technically speaking, mixed breed dogs include Huskadors (Siberian Husky and Labrador Retriever), Pomskies (Siberian Husky and Pomeranian), Labradoodles (Labrador and Poodle), and Goldendoodles (Golden Retriever and Poodle).

This means that their physical and psychological characteristics vary greatly from individual to individual.

Because genetics is not a recipe, mixed breeds may not always inherit the greatest qualities of both of their parents.

List of the best dog breeds for first-time owners

The following list illustrates small dog breeds that are suited for first-time dog owners. The first column contains selection criteria to guide in identifying the ideal dog breed for each person's lifestyle.

Overview of traits for small dog breeds

Not adaptable
Very low adaptability
Medium adaptability
High adaptability

Companion dogs don't tolerate being alone

It is a general trait for all the presented dog breeds

They don't tolerate being left alone for long periods (more than 2-4 hours). They are prone to develop separation anxiety, like most companion dog breeds. If they are left alone, they can develop destructive behaviors such as barking, whining, chewing, and even hurting themselves if the room they are left in, is not dog-safe. They get attached to their families and need to have constant human company. This breed is not a good option for people that work long hours or can't leave their dogs at a daycare or with someone else during the day.

List of the best dog breeds for first-time owners

The following list illustrates small dog breeds that are suited for first-time dog owners. The first column contains selection criteria to guide in identifying the ideal dog breed for each person's lifestyle.

Overview of traits for small dog breeds

Not adaptable
Very low adaptability
Medium adaptability
High adaptability

Companion dogs don't tolerate being alone

It is a general trait for all the presented dog breeds

They don't tolerate being left alone for long periods (more than 2-4 hours). They are prone to develop separation anxiety, like most companion dog breeds.

If they are left alone, they can develop destructive behaviors such as barking, whining, chewing, and even hurting themselves if the room they are left in, is not dog-safe. They get attached to their families and need to have constant human company.

This breed is not a good option for people that work long hours or can't leave their dogs at a daycare or with someone else during the day.

They have high grooming requirements due to their long coat, which might tangle easily, so they require daily brushing and professional grooming appointments.
They adapt quite well to different environments (cold or hot weather).
They have a medium prey drive, and they were initially bred to flush and retrieve birds, which means they are not compatible with bird pets or other small animals such as hamsters and rabbits.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dog BreedRead more

They are quite sensitive dogs, so they don't tolerate cold weather ( don't have a double coat).
They are compatible with families that have children, although they might get hurt during rough playtime, so they are most compatible with older children, that know how to behave around dogs. Also, they are not afraid to protect themselves, so they might snap back at small children. It is important to supervise all child-dog interactions to avoid unpleasant incidents.
Being a high-energy dog that requires a lot of exercise and physical maintenance, they are not completely suitable for not-so-active elderly people.
They require proper socialization from an early age to get along with other animals, including cats (they tend to chase cats). Being around rabbits or hamsters might trigger their low prey drive, so it is best if they are kept away from the small animals.

Papillon Dog BreedRead more

They have high grooming requirements due to their curly coat which easily becomes matted (they need to be brushed weekly). They need professional grooming once in a while when it is needed.
They don't have a double coat, so they prefer warmer environments.
They like to be around children, although they are very small and might easily get hurt. It is best to supervise all child-dog interactions to ensure everyone is safe.
Being highly energetic dogs, they require physical and mental stimulation to maintain health and happiness, so they might be a challenge for not-so-active elderly people, although they can easily adapt to different households.
Although having a low prey drive, Toy Poodles tend to chase cats and small animals, they require early socialization and training.

Toy Poodle Dog BreedRead more

They are adaptable dogs, not necessarily active, however, in recent years, pet owners started to train their Shih Tzu puppies for obedience, rally, and even agility.
Shih Tzus have a double coat that requires consistent brushing due to its mating potential.
They are not quite adaptable to different environments, they prefer colder weather.
Shih Tzus are prone to overheating in the summer due to their short snout, so they require special attention during this time of the year.
This breed needs more patience and repetitions during training because they might get stubborn or disinterested faster.
Although having a low prey drive, Shih Tzus tend to chase small animals, they require early socialization and training.

Shih Tzu Dog BreedRead more

They are really sensitive dogs when it comes to weather-they have a short snout which means they are prone to overheating during the summer months (they need to be inside and use caution when being exercised)-they also don't tolerate cold weather either because they don't have a thick fur to keep them warm (they need dog clothing).
They can be quite challenging when it comes to house training, due to their stubbornness, but they just need more patience and repetition.

Pug Dog BreedRead more

Bichon Frise Dog BreedRead more

(they can be small to medium-sized dogs)

They are really sensitive dogs, which means they are not adaptable to cold (they don't have thick fur which can keep them warm) or warm (they have a short snout which means they are prone to overheating during summertime) environments.
Being highly energetic dogs, they require a lot of physical and mental stimulation.
They also might require more patience and repetition during training due to their on-and-off stubbornness.

Boston Terrier Dog BreedRead more

Overview of traits for medium-sized dog breeds

Not adaptable
Very low adaptability
Medium adaptability
High adaptability

These dog breeds don't tolerate being alone

It is a general trait for all the presented dog breeds

They don't tolerate being left alone for long periods (more than 2-4 hours). They are prone to develop separation anxiety. If they are left alone, they can develop destructive behaviors such as barking, whining, chewing, and even hurting themselves if the room they are left in, is not dog-safe. They get attached to their families and need to have constant human company. This breed is not a good option for people that work long hours or can't leave their dogs at a daycare or with someone else during the day.

Overview of traits for medium-sized dog breeds

Not adaptable
Very low adaptability
Medium adaptability
High adaptability

These dog breeds don't tolerate being alone

It is a general trait for all the presented dog breeds

They don't tolerate being left alone for long periods (more than 2-4 hours).

They are prone to develop separation anxiety. If they are left alone, they can develop destructive behaviors such as barking, whining, chewing, and even hurting themselves if the room they are left in, is not dog-safe.

They get attached to their families and need to have constant human company.

This breed is not a good option for people that work long hours or can't leave their dogs at a daycare or with someone else during the day.

They have a double coat, and they shed year around. They need to be brushed regularly (every day if possible) to maintain their long coats mat-free. Although they are adaptable to both cold and warm environments, they prefer warmer ones.
English Springer Spaniels are great family dogs and they like to be around children as long as everyone is taught how to behave: the puppies require early training and socialization and the children need to respect the dog's boundaries (don't approach them when they are eating, sleeping or pull their tails, ears, etc). They are not compatible with elderly people due to their high physical requirements: they are highly energetic dogs that need to be exercised every day, mentally stimulated, and properly trained.
English Springer Spaniel might be a good first-time dog if the owners are properly informed about the responsibilities and requirements of this dog breed.
They are not quite suitable for apartment living, since they need a lot of constant physical and mental stimulation. They need to run and they can bark excessively (or even become destructive) if left alone for long periods.
The severe dominant aggression sometimes known as "Springer Rage," is suspected to be a type of epilepsy. With this disorder, English Springer Spaniels frequently attack their owners during moments of severe aggression. Anti-seizure medications may benefit affected dogs, but they should never be used for breeding.

Since they were bred as gun dogs, their prey drive is really high and they can sometimes even become aggressive. It is not recommended that they be together with bird pets, small animals, or cats. Proper training and socialization can help control their prey drive.

English Springer Spaniel Dog BreedRead more

Whippets don't shed a lot and don't require a lot of grooming. The thin coat of a Whippet makes them susceptible to cuts and scrapes (also this is the reason they are not adaptable to cold weather), so it's a good idea to develop the daily ritual of routinely inspecting your Whippet's skin. Regularly brushing teeth, trimming nails, and checking ears round up your Whippet's grooming routine.

Whippets enjoy two things: running at high speed and cuddling up on your favorite chair while you're trying to sleep there. Although they will notify you through barking if it is something to bark at, they will generally be silent within the house. They like chasing anything that moves, even the neighboring cats, as do all Sighthounds.

Whippets have a really high prey drive so if you have a cat, they might endlessly chase her/him, but if they are trained early on as puppies, they might learn to control their prey drive.

They can be suited for first-time dog owners if they are responsibly informed about the breed's general requirements and training needs.

Whippet Dog BreedRead more

Cocker spaniels are kind, affectionate, and relaxed, which makes them excellent family pets. Generally speaking, they are smart and easy to train.

They are incredibly loyal dogs and will join you all day long wherever you go inside the house. Cockers enjoy going for vigorous walks as well, and they always seem to be having fun. Despite being originally bred as hunting dogs, they now make wonderful pets for both young and old owners.

Since they were bred as hunting dogs, they require early socialization and training to get along with other animals and dogs.

Cocker Spaniel Dog BreedRead more

Overview of traits for medium-large and large dog breeds

Not adaptable
Very low adaptability
Medium adaptability
High adaptability

These dog breeds don't tolerate being alone

It is a general trait for all the presented dog breeds

They don't tolerate being left alone for long periods (more than 2-4 hours).

They are prone to develop separation anxiety. If they are left alone, they can develop destructive behaviors such as barking, whining, chewing, and even hurting themselves if the room they are left in, is not dog-safe.

They get attached to their families and need to have constant human company.

This breed is not a good option for people that work long hours or can't leave their dogs at a daycare or with someone else during the day.

Overview of traits for medium-large and large dog breeds

Not adaptable
Very low adaptability
Medium adaptability
High adaptability

These dog breeds don't tolerate being alone

It is a general trait for all the presented dog breeds

They don't tolerate being left alone for long periods (more than 2-4 hours). They are prone to develop separation anxiety. If they are left alone, they can develop destructive behaviors such as barking, whining, chewing, and even hurting themselves if the room they are left in, is not dog-safe. They get attached to their families and need to have constant human company. This breed is not a good option for people that work long hours or can't leave their dogs at a daycare or with someone else during the day.

Boxers have it all as canines: loyalty, love, intelligence, willingness to work hard, and good looks. For a very long time, the Boxer has been one of the best-known dog breeds in America. They are bright and alert, occasionally goofy but always brave.

They are not adaptable to either extreme cold (they don't have thick fur to keep them warm) or extremely hot (they have a short snout which means they are prone to overheating during summer) weather.
Boxers adore children and make excellent playmates for older, more active kids. However, they might be too energetic for toddlers and may unintentionally knock them over when playing.

Constantly monitor any interactions between small children and dogs to prevent biting or ear or tail pulling on either party's behalf, and always teach kids how to approach and pet dogs.

Being working dogs, they are not compatible with elderly people since they need a lot of proper training and exercise to achieve their potential.
They can be great first dogs for first-time dog owners if the owners inform themselves about the responsibilities and requirements of this breed.

Particularly if they are raised with them, Boxers can interact well with other dogs and cats.

Boxer Dog BreedRead more

One of the most well-known and well-recognized medium-large dog breeds is the Labrador Retriever. Labs are good with children and adapt well to most surroundings. They are extremely affectionate and devoted dogs that develop strong ties with their families. This breed is energetic, fun-loving, and smart. They flourish in active homes that can give them lots of exercise and training. Labs adore fetching, running, and cuddling.

The Lab coat is made up of two layers: a short, thick, straight topcoat and a silky, weather-resistant undercoat. The two-layer coat keeps them warm and dry, which aids them in their function as hunters' retrievers.
Grooming doesn't get easier than this, however, the breed sheds a lot.

Being highly energetic dogs, they are not quite compatible with elderly people and are not suited for apartment living, although if they are properly exercised throughout the day, they can live in a smaller place.

Labrador Retriever Dog BreedRead more

The Golden Retriever is the ideal family pet because of its eagerness to please. All ages of children get along well with Golden Retrievers. This medium-large dog is content, devoted, loving, and energetic. The breed can adapt to most houses because it is clever and flexible. For their physical well-being and to keep them from getting bored, they also require a significant amount of activity.

They need coat brushing 3-5 times a week, teeth brushing is recommended 2 to 3 times per week, trimming their nails every 2 to 3 weeks, bathing once a month is fine, and going to a professional groomer, is recommended every 8 to 10 weeks to maintain the quality of their fur.

Given the chance, Golden Retrievers will make an effort to befriend any other dogs they come across. With strangers, whether they are humans or not, Golden Retrievers will keep their kind and loving demeanor. They are suitable as pets for those who already own animals.

Golden Retriever Dog BreedRead more

Greyhounds, like all sighthounds, have a strong chasing instinct. Despite this, they are still able to coexist with other pets if enough time is given for socialization and training. This dog is the ideal pet for a family looking for a large dog that is also sleek and tidy.

The short coat of the Greyhound doesn't require much maintenance, they are average shedders.
Due to their thin coat, they don't tolerate colder environments.

Greyhounds are not vicious dogs, but unlike many other breeds, they were not developed or raised to be good with kids. Many dogs tend to treat kids like pups and will growl or snap at them if they threaten or disturb them. Greyhounds must be socialized from an early age. Since they lack the body fat and fur needed for rough play, kids should learn to treat their dog friends cautiously and respectfully.
They can adapt to apartment living if they are regularly exercised throughout the day.

Like any dog, some Greyhounds get along well with other animals while others can never be trusted, and the rest will act in a manner somewhere in the middle. Some

Greyhounds have a reputation for being fierce predators. Genetics play a part, and the need to chase is particularly strong in many Greyhounds. Even though many Greyhounds get along with cats, rabbits, and other small animals, it is advisable to avoid anticipating that yours will do the same with your other furry family members, especially small canines.

Greyhound Dog BreedRead more

Fans of Bernese mountain dogs, affectionately referred to as "Berners," adore them for their kind, easygoing temperament and love of their family, especially young children. Large and powerful Berners can pull carts and serve as guard dogs.

Due to their thick coat, they don't tolerate warm weather.

They are heavy shedders so they need to be brushed very often (at least a few times a week) and bathed as many times as they need.

Berners are large canines that might scare a kid who isn't used to playing with dogs. A Berner could unintentionally tip over infants or toddlers due to its size. If left to their instincts, Berners puppies frequently chase, nip, or bite as a kind of play. It might be difficult to teach kids how to react to these instinctual acts.

They are not entirely easy to train, though. Some people, especially males, and especially during adolescence when they're "starting to feel their hormones," can be a little bit stubborn and dominant.

The majority of Bernese Mountain Dogs are calm and friendly toward other animals. However, some male Bernese are hostile to other male dogs.

Bernese Mountain Dog BreedRead more

Clever, lively, and energetic (they are placed as the second most intelligent dog breed in the world)-can bark excessively (with proper training it doesn't need to be a problem)

They can be shy, although they are not considered a territorial or aggressive breed, at the same time, they seem to be very protective when it comes to their family.

The Poodle sheds, however, the fur gets knotted in the surrounding hair rather than falling off the dog. Without adequate maintenance, this might result in matting. The texture might be harsh and shaggy or smooth and wavy. A Poodle should be groomed every six to eight weeks by its owner.

The Standard Poodle is kind and friendly with small children if they have a good introduction from the start, although they require a quiet place where they can retrieve from time to time.

They can get along with other pets if they are socialized early on when they are puppies or if they grow together.

Standard Poodle Dog BreedRead more

Animals bring love to the world

Dogs provide social development benefits to their adult owners and children. Perhaps the most essential aspect of having a dog for children is the protective effect dogs offer against psychological stress.

Pets improve social play behavior, with communication being key, and there is significant evidence that pets have the capacity to support the formation of good socially interactive connections with people.

Dogs may assist young children in learning to control their emotions and form more meaningful relationships.

Animals bring love to the worldRead the article

Animals bring love to the world

Dogs provide social development benefits to their adult owners and children. Perhaps the most essential aspect of having a dog for children is the protective effect dogs offer against psychological stress.

Pets improve social play behavior, with communication being key, and there is significant evidence that pets have the capacity to support the formation of good socially interactive connections with people.

Dogs may assist young children in learning to control their emotions and form more meaningful relationships.

Animals bring love to the worldRead the article

Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.