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The English Springer Spaniel is a great dog for families.The English Springer Spaniel is a great dog for families.
The English Springer Spaniel is a great dog for families.

13 of the best breeds of dogs for first-time owners - including the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and English Springer Spaniel

Buying a dog for the first time is a massive decision – afterall a dog is for life not just Christmas as the saying goes.
Stephen Thirkill
By Stephen Thirkill
Published 7th Jul 2022, 06:42 BST
Updated 2nd Aug 2022, 10:45 BST

There’s so much to consider after you’ve decided you’re going to take the plunge and get your first dog.

Have you got children, and what dogs are good with kids if so?

Will elderly relatives be coming to visit who may be intimidated by bigger and louder dogs?

How much walking will it need and will your child be able to handle it and not get dragged through the park because it’s just too big and powerful?

Here’s our guide – from the American Kennel Club and the Spruce Pets website – to the best breeds that will get you off to a great start with your new pet.

Will elderly relatives be coming to visit who may be intimidated by bigger and louder dogs?

The Poodle is an exceptionally smart breed that excels in all kinds of dog sport activities. The breed comes in three size varieties, which may contribute to why Poodle is one of the most popular breeds. The Poodle can accommodate nearly any size living quarters. Their nearly hypoallergenic coat may reduce allergic reactions, but requires grooming knowledge to keep maintained.

5. Poodles

The Poodle is an exceptionally smart breed that excels in all kinds of dog sport activities. The breed comes in three size varieties, which may contribute to why Poodle is one of the most popular breeds. The Poodle can accommodate nearly any size living quarters. Their nearly hypoallergenic coat may reduce allergic reactions, but requires grooming knowledge to keep maintained. Photo: AFP via Getty Images

The Shih Tzu makes a great companion and house pet, with a lively and friendly attitude. They require minimal exercise and their long, luxurious coat can be kept in a “puppy cut” to keep maintenance easier.

6. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu makes a great companion and house pet, with a lively and friendly attitude. They require minimal exercise and their long, luxurious coat can be kept in a “puppy cut” to keep maintenance easier. Photo: Getty Images

A medium-sized breed, the Wheaten Terrier is happy, steady, self-confident, and alert to his surroundings. Wheatens tend to be less scrappy than other terriers but they are true terriers and will be more active than many other breeds, enjoying plenty of exercise every day. They relate well to children and can adapt to city, country, and suburban life. The Wheaten is single coated and sheds minimally, but needs regular grooming to keep its coat mat-free.

7. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

A medium-sized breed, the Wheaten Terrier is happy, steady, self-confident, and alert to his surroundings. Wheatens tend to be less scrappy than other terriers but they are true terriers and will be more active than many other breeds, enjoying plenty of exercise every day. They relate well to children and can adapt to city, country, and suburban life. The Wheaten is single coated and sheds minimally, but needs regular grooming to keep its coat mat-free. Photo: AFP via Getty Images

Although Whippets like to run, most of the time they make excellent house dogs. They are quiet while hanging out in the living room at home, often spending most of the day sleeping. Their natural attachment to people makes them happiest when kept as house pets. The breed is friendly to visitors and good with well-trained children!

8. Whippets

Although Whippets like to run, most of the time they make excellent house dogs. They are quiet while hanging out in the living room at home, often spending most of the day sleeping. Their natural attachment to people makes them happiest when kept as house pets. The breed is friendly to visitors and good with well-trained children! Photo: AFP via Getty Images

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