Getting Your First Dog? Start with One of These 23 Breeds

Bringing home your first dog is an exciting adventure—one that’s full of cuddles, wagging tails, and the joy of forming a lifelong bond. But it also comes with important decisions, especially when it comes to choosing the right breed. Your dog’s size, temperament, energy level, and grooming needs can dramatically shape your early experience as a pet parent. The good news? Some breeds are especially well-suited for first-time owners, making the transition into dog ownership smoother and more rewarding.

Whether you live in a small apartment or a house with a yard, whether you’re looking for a calm lapdog or a playful walking companion, there’s a breed out there that can fit your lifestyle without overwhelming you. These 23 dog breeds are widely loved for being friendly, trainable, and relatively low-maintenance. From sociable small pups to gentle giants, each offers something special for beginners.

Ready to meet your new best friend? Here are 23 dog breeds that make excellent choices for first-time owners—no advanced dog-whispering skills required.

1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: The Royal Lap Warmer

These silky-eared aristocrats combine the best traits of toy breeds and sporting dogs in one adorable package. Cavaliers thrive on human companionship and adapt wonderfully to apartment living or family homes alike.

Their moderate exercise needs mean daily walks satisfy them, though they’re always game for play sessions. Most Cavaliers get along famously with children, other pets, and even strangers.

Health-wise, watch for heart conditions common in the breed. Their beautiful coats require regular brushing to prevent mats, but their grooming needs aren’t overwhelming for newcomers to dog care.

2. Shih Tzu: The Little Lion with a Big Heart

Originally bred as companions for Chinese royalty, these little lions (that’s what “Shih Tzu” translates to) live for love and attention. Their flowing coats and expressive eyes make them irresistible to many first-time dog parents.

Don’t let their regal appearance fool you – Shih Tzus are surprisingly sturdy and adaptable. They require minimal exercise, making them perfect for apartment dwellers or those with limited mobility.

While their gorgeous locks need regular grooming (or a practical puppy cut), their affectionate nature and moderate energy levels create an easy introduction to dog ownership for beginners.

3. Bichon Frise: The Cotton Ball Companion

Imagine a living, breathing cotton ball that loves to play and cuddle – that’s the Bichon Frise! These cheerful little dogs practically bounce through life with perpetual good humor and a smile that’s contagious.

Apartment-friendly and adaptable, Bichons typically weigh between 7-12 pounds but have personalities much bigger than their size suggests. Their hypoallergenic coats make them suitable for many allergy sufferers, though regular professional grooming keeps that fluffy white coat looking its best.

Bichons form strong bonds with their families and generally get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized.

4. Pug: The Charming Clown

Those wrinkled faces and expressive eyes tell you everything about pugs – they’re here for the laughs and love. These compact companions have been charming humans for centuries with their unique blend of dignity and silliness.

Pugs require minimal exercise and adapt well to various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards. Their short coats need basic maintenance, though those facial wrinkles require regular cleaning to prevent issues.

Be aware of their tendency toward breathing difficulties in hot weather or during strenuous activity. What pugs lack in athletic ability, they make up for with their devoted, people-pleasing personalities that make training relatively straightforward.

5. Havanese: The Velcro Dog of Cuba

Cuba’s national dog brings tropical charm and endless affection to first-time dog parents. Havanese puppies quickly earn their nickname as “velcro dogs” by sticking close to their favorite humans whenever possible.

Their silky, non-shedding coats come in many colors and require regular brushing to prevent mats. Weighing between 7-13 pounds, these small but sturdy companions adapt well to various living situations and family dynamics.

Havanese dogs possess remarkable intelligence that makes training enjoyable rather than challenging. Their playful nature continues well into adulthood, but their exercise needs remain modest – making them suitable for less active owners.

6. Boston Terrier: The Gentleman in a Tuxedo

Always dressed for success in their natural tuxedo markings, Boston Terriers bring American charm and adaptability to first-time dog ownership. These compact companions typically weigh under 25 pounds but carry themselves with distinctive style and confidence.

Boston Terriers thrive in various living situations thanks to their moderate exercise needs and generally quiet nature. Their short coats require minimal grooming – just occasional brushing and basic care.

While energetic enough for play and short walks, they won’t demand marathon running sessions. Their expressive eyes and perky ears telegraph their emotions clearly, making communication between pet and owner straightforward for beginners.

7. Cocker Spaniel: The Merry Moppet

With those soulful eyes and flowing ears, Cocker Spaniels melt hearts wherever they go. These medium-sized charmers balance playfulness and gentleness in a package that works beautifully for first-time dog parents.

Originally bred as hunting dogs, modern Cockers retain just enough energy to enjoy daily walks and play sessions without overwhelming new owners. Their sociable nature makes them excellent family pets who typically get along well with children and other animals.

Their beautiful coats require commitment to regular brushing and occasional professional grooming. The reward for this maintenance? A devoted companion whose wagging tail and sweet expression will brighten even your toughest days.

8. Papillon: The Butterfly Dog with Brains

Named for their distinctive butterfly-like ears, Papillons pack surprising intelligence into their tiny frames. These miniature wizards typically weigh under 10 pounds but possess problem-solving abilities that rival much larger breeds.

Papillons balance delicate appearance with surprising hardiness and adaptability. Their elegant, flowing coats require regular brushing but less maintenance than many long-haired breeds.

Unlike some small dogs, Papillons generally enjoy training sessions and excel in dog sports like agility. They form strong bonds with their humans while maintaining an independent streak. Their moderate exercise needs make them suitable for apartments, though they appreciate having safe spaces to explore their impressive speed.

9. French Bulldog: The Bat-Eared Charmer

Those distinctive bat ears and squishy faces have made Frenchies one of America’s most popular breeds – and for good reason! These compact companions offer big personalities in packages rarely exceeding 28 pounds.

French Bulldogs adapt wonderfully to apartment living thanks to their moderate exercise needs and generally quiet demeanor. They typically form strong bonds with their humans and show remarkable patience with respectful children.

Their short coats require minimal grooming, though those facial wrinkles need regular cleaning. Be aware of their sensitivity to heat and potential breathing challenges due to their flat faces. Their stubborn streak can challenge first-timers, but their people-pleasing nature typically wins out.

10. Miniature Schnauzer: The Bearded Guardian

Sporting distinguished beards and eyebrows, Miniature Schnauzers bring German efficiency and affection to first-time dog ownership. These sturdy little guardians typically weigh between 11-20 pounds and possess remarkable adaptability to different living situations.

Their wiry coats shed minimally, making them more suitable for some allergy sufferers, though regular professional grooming maintains their distinctive appearance. Miniature Schnauzers balance watchdog instincts with friendly personalities that welcome family and approved guests alike.

Their intelligence makes training generally straightforward, though their terrier heritage sometimes emerges as stubborn determination. Moderate daily exercise keeps these spirited companions content without exhausting new dog parents.

11. Labrador Retriever: The All-American Favorite

America’s most popular dog earned its status through an unbeatable combination of friendliness, trainability, and adaptability. Labs typically weigh between 55-80 pounds and bring enthusiastic energy to everything from family hikes to backyard lounging.

Their water-resistant double coats shed seasonally but require only basic brushing and occasional baths. Young Labs need substantial exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom behaviors, but their eagerness to please makes training genuinely enjoyable for first-timers.

Labs typically excel with children and adapt well to various family dynamics. Their food motivation makes positive reinforcement training particularly effective, though this same enthusiasm for eating requires portion control to prevent weight gain.

12. Golden Retriever: The Sunshine Ambassador

With flowing golden coats and perpetual smiles, these dogs seem to radiate warmth and joy wherever they go. Golden Retrievers bring legendary patience and trainability to first-time dog parenthood, though their 55-75 pound frames require space to move comfortably.

Goldens typically adore children and approach life with gentle enthusiasm that makes them exceptional family pets. Their intelligence and eagerness to please create an ideal training experience for beginners, though consistency remains important.

Their beautiful coats require regular brushing to manage shedding and prevent mats. Exercise needs are moderate to high, but their adaptable nature means they can adjust to your activity level – as long as they receive daily mental and physical stimulation.

13. Standard Poodle: The Elegant Athlete

Forget any misconceptions about poodles being fussy – these elegant athletes combine brainpower and physical prowess in surprisingly versatile packages. Standard Poodles typically stand 15+ inches tall and bring remarkable problem-solving abilities to first-time dog ownership.

Their hypoallergenic, continuously growing coats require regular professional grooming, though many owners opt for practical “sporting clips” rather than show cuts. Standard Poodles form deep bonds with their families while maintaining dignified independence.

Their exercise needs balance activity with calmness – daily walks and play sessions satisfy them without the extreme requirements of some working breeds. Their exceptional intelligence makes training a joy, though their sensitivity requires gentle, positive approaches rather than harsh corrections.

14. Boxer: The Playful Protector

Those expressive faces and playful antics hide the heart of a devoted guardian in these medium-large companions. Boxers typically weigh between 50-70 pounds and bring boundless enthusiasm to family activities while showing remarkable gentleness with their loved ones.

Young Boxers need substantial exercise to channel their natural exuberance, making them better suited to active first-time owners. Their short coats require minimal grooming beyond basic care, though they may drool more than some breeds.

Boxers generally adore children and approach play with joyful energy that can last well into adulthood. Their intelligence and people-focused nature make training enjoyable, though their stubborn streak occasionally emerges during adolescence.

15. Whippet: The Gentle Speedster

Imagine greyhounds in medium-sized packages – that’s the Whippet, combining bursts of incredible speed with surprisingly calm house manners. These sleek athletes typically weigh between 25-40 pounds and bring an unexpected combination of independence and affection to first-time ownership.

Whippets need secure areas for occasional sprinting but require less daily exercise than many breeds their size. Their short coats need minimal grooming beyond basic care.

Despite their racing heritage, Whippets spend much of their time as world-class couch potatoes. Their sensitive nature responds best to gentle, positive training methods. While they may chase small animals outdoors due to their sight hound heritage, they typically coexist peacefully with family cats when properly introduced.

16. Collie: The Canine Nanny

Long before Lassie made them famous, Collies earned reputations as exceptional family companions through their intuitive understanding of children and trainability. These medium-large herders typically weigh between 50-75 pounds and bring remarkable intelligence to first-time dog ownership.

Collies generally approach life with gentle awareness, naturally moderating their energy around children and smaller pets. Their gorgeous coats require regular brushing to prevent mats and manage seasonal shedding.

While they appreciate daily walks and play sessions, Collies rarely demand extreme exercise. Their herding heritage sometimes emerges as attempting to gather family members or circling behaviors. Their sensitivity and people-focused nature make positive training methods particularly effective.

17. Greyhound: The 45mph Couch Potato

Most people are surprised to learn that the world’s fastest dog breed spends most of its time napping! Adult Greyhounds typically weigh between 60-70 pounds and bring an unexpected combination of athleticism and relaxation to first-time ownership.

Despite their racing reputation, retired Greyhounds often adapt beautifully to apartment living, requiring just moderate daily exercise with occasional opportunities to run safely in enclosed areas. Their short coats need minimal grooming beyond basic care.

Greyhounds typically approach life with gentle dignity that makes them wonderful companions for quieter households. Their independent nature means training focuses on household manners rather than elaborate tricks, though positive methods work best with their sensitive temperaments.

18. Pekingese: The Lion-Hearted Imperial Dog

Once the treasured companions of Chinese emperors, these little lions carry themselves with remarkable dignity despite their small stature. Pekingese typically weigh under 14 pounds but approach life with confidence and independence that can surprise first-time owners.

Their magnificent coats require regular brushing to prevent mats and occasional professional grooming. Pekingese need minimal exercise, making them suitable for apartments or homes with limited outdoor space.

Their flat faces require attention to breathing issues in hot weather or during exertion. While devoted to their families, Pekingese maintain independent streaks that can challenge training – patience and consistency work better than expecting immediate obedience from these regal companions.

19. Maltese: The Ancient Lapdog

With histories tracing back thousands of years, these tiny white aristocrats have perfected the art of companionship. Maltese typically weigh under 7 pounds but bring surprisingly robust personalities to first-time dog ownership.

Their silky, hypoallergenic coats require regular brushing and professional grooming to maintain their characteristic appearance. Many owners opt for practical “puppy cuts” that reduce maintenance while preserving their adorable looks.

Maltese need minimal exercise, making them ideal for apartments or less active owners. Despite their delicate appearance, they often show surprising confidence and playfulness. Their people-focused nature makes training generally straightforward, though consistent bathroom habits may require extra patience during the puppy stage.

20. Beagle: The Merry Little Hound

Charlie Brown’s faithful Snoopy introduced many to the endearing qualities of Beagles – friendly, curious, and perpetually ready for adventure. These compact hounds typically weigh between 20-30 pounds and bring remarkable determination and joy to first-time dog ownership.

Beagles possess extraordinary noses that sometimes lead them into mischief following interesting scents. Their short coats require minimal grooming beyond occasional brushing to manage moderate shedding.

These social butterflies generally love children and other dogs, making them excellent family pets. Their food motivation makes positive reinforcement training particularly effective, though their independent hunting heritage requires secure leashing or fencing during outdoor time.

21. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier: The Irish Charmer

Sporting honey-colored coats and bouncy enthusiasm, Wheatens bring Irish charm and adaptability to first-time dog parenthood. These medium-sized terriers typically weigh between 30-40 pounds and balance playfulness with remarkable steadiness around families.

Their silky, wheat-colored coats require regular brushing and occasional professional grooming to prevent mats. Unlike many terriers, Wheatens generally show less prey drive and dog aggression, making them more adaptable to multi-pet households.

Their famous “Wheaten greetin'” – jumping up with excitement to welcome loved ones – requires consistent training to manage. Their moderate exercise needs balance activity with calmness, typically satisfied with daily walks and play sessions without extreme requirements.

22. Brussels Griffon: The Bearded Comedian

With expressive, almost human-like faces, Brussels Griffons pack enormous personalities into tiny packages rarely exceeding 12 pounds. These distinctive companions bring remarkable intelligence and sensitivity to first-time dog ownership.

Brussels Griffons form intensely devoted bonds with their people and prefer households where they won’t be left alone for extended periods. Their wiry or smooth coats require moderate grooming, with the rough-coated variety needing professional attention to maintain their characteristic bearded appearance.

Despite their small size, they approach life with surprising confidence and adaptability. Their exercise needs remain modest, making them suitable for apartments, though they enjoy short walks and indoor play sessions.

23. Bernese Mountain Dog: The Gentle Giant

Few dogs combine imposing size with such remarkable gentleness as the Bernese Mountain Dog. These Swiss beauties typically weigh between 70-115 pounds and bring calm steadiness to first-time ownership, despite their impressive dimensions.

Their gorgeous tri-colored coats require regular brushing to manage shedding and prevent mats. Berners thrive in cooler climates and need shade and water access during warmer weather due to their thick coats.

While they enjoy daily walks and outdoor time, adult Berners typically show moderate energy levels rather than demanding constant activity. Their patient nature makes them exceptional with children, though early training helps manage their size during the enthusiastic puppy stage. Unfortunately, their lifespans tend to be shorter than many breeds.