Thinking of introducing a new four-legged family member to your home? There’s a lot to consider before heading to the animal shelter. First, you need to make sure you can afford to add a pooch to the pack. The cost to insure your new best friend, visits to the veterinarian, and putting food in the bowl can all add up. Additionally, those who are unable to work remotely or find themselves away from home may not have time to devote to a dog. If you think you’re ready to make the leap into “pawrenthood,” it’s important to choose a breed that suits your lifestyle. Here are our recommendations for the right breed for new pet owners who want to avoid fitting a round Pug in a square hole.
Outdoorsy Types
People who like to hike frequently should consider adopting an Australian Shepherd. This agile breed makes tricky pathways look easy. They’re obedient off leash and widely known for being friendly to other trail users. Gear up and trek the Appalachian Trail with your newly adopted outbound hound, or stride out on a waterfall hike together and start making memories from the moment you meet.
City Dwellers
People who live in the city may want to find a Bichon Frise for company. At an average of 11 pounds, these adorable fluff balls make great roommates in small homes or apartments and have hypoallergenic fur, which should keep your landlord happy. The city has its perks, but easy access to green areas isn’t one of them. Fortunately, Bichons are low maintenance and only require moderate exercise. Thinking of going urban? Before you sign a lease, check out the top 12 most pet-friendly cities in the U.S. to find the “pawfect” fit for your new best friend.
Suburbanites
Quieter neighborhoods and more space make suburban living and the addition of a four-legged family member a match made in heaven. Greyhounds make for ideal homebodies in the suburbs. This easygoing breed can hit top speeds at the local dog park, but is more than happy to spend most of its time sprawling on the couch. Treat the newest family member to a unique suburban trip to an Airbnb on wheels.
Farm Folk
Whether you’ve put down roots on a farm that grows pumpkins, lavender or apples, there’s a canine companion to suit your chosen farm life. Border Collies are the pick of the bunch for a first-time farm friend. This loving breed, known for its intelligence, is easy to train and has boundless energy. Border Collies will keep you company from the second the rooster crows to the moment the sun finally sets. Still on the fence about farm life? Try one out for size on a pet-friendly farm stay.
Sports Enthusiasts
Looking for a dog who can help take your game to the next level? The German Shorthaired Pointer is an active breed that’s built for endurance and loves spending all day outside. GSPs are confident and enthusiastic, and can pick up a new sport easier than more nervous pups. If you’re looking for an activity to try with your new best friend, sniff out hidden treasures together on a geocaching adventure, run like the wind in a canicross race, or go extreme and hit the mountain bike trails.
Water Lovers
People who love the water can make a splash with a Portuguese Water Dog. Originally bred for life on the open waves aboard fishing vessels, these curly canines are the ideal companion for people who love to get wet. You’ll need plenty of energy to keep up with your pup, but the outgoing breed will reward you with loyalty, love, and slobbery kisses. From tubing to surfing, these pups will love any water activity by your side. Portuguese Water Dogs need around an hour of exercise a day. Why not visit a dog park with a lake for a lengthy game of fetch in the water?
Families
Labrador Retrievers regularly top the charts for the most popular dog breeds in the U.S. These good-natured souls are happy joining the whole pack on a road trip, chilling at home, or accompanying the crew on a spring hike. Labs love children, get along well with other dogs, and fit well into most family settings. See how well your new Labrador behaves in a social setting with a family outing to a restaurant with a view.
Seniors
Cruise into retirement with a Corgi for company. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are the Queen of England’s favorite pups and make ideal partners for seniors. This adorable, smart, and easy-to-train breed has recognizable short legs that will trot comically by your side on daily walks. As an added bonus, Corgis don’t require much upkeep or grooming. If you’re looking for a friend with more miles on the clock to spend your golden years with, check out these pet sanctuaries where you can adopt a senior dog.
Puppy Love
Have you fallen in love for the first time? Bring a Boxer home to dote on together. This friendly breed will bound into your life and fill the gap you and your partner never knew you had. Spend time training this intelligent and fun-loving breed together and grow your bond as a family. Plan on adding more family members? Boxers are known to be patient and loving toward children. When it’s time to tie the knot, reserve a romantic room for three at one of these pet-friendly honeymoon resorts.
Singles
If you’re single, a French Bulldog will help you mingle (at the dog park). Frenchies are a magnet for breaking the ice and meeting new people. This faithful and dependable breed can join you on a solo tour of pet-friendly state parks or keep you company while you work remotely and make new cubicle buddies. Celebrate the day you bring your fantastic Frenchie home with one of these unforgettable Gotcha Day ideas, or treat her to a luxurious weekend away instead.
Cold Climates
Pups who shiver at the sight of snow might be better suited to a family in Florida than a pack in Alaska, but some breeds are built for colder climates. If you’re looking for a pooch to help you check off activities from your winter bucket list, Siberian Huskies will be happy to answer the call. This medium-sized breed is hardworking, strong, loyal, and built to withstand days of play in wintery conditions. Let your Husky do the work on a skijoring trip, or bring him to the Big Apple to see the statue of the most famous Siberian Husky of all, Balto, in Central Park.
Hot Climates
Dogs who can’t stand the heat should avoid hotter climates. But Chihuahuas, who originated in the deserts of Mexico, have thin coats which make them better suited to hotter temperatures than most breeds. These pocket-sized pooches will be happy to join you on a road trip along The Pacific Coast Highway on the West Coast or a pet-friendly adventure to the Florida Keys on the East Coast.
Frequent Fliers
Regular jetsetters will be suited to a smaller breed that can travel safely in the cabin and doesn’t annoy other fliers on the journey. The petite Pomeranian fits the bill on both counts and will quietly keep you company in first class on yet another airborne adventure together. Looking for inspiration for your next international excursion? Reserve one of the best pet-friendly vacation rentals in the world or explore international monuments that celebrate our love of dogs.
Road Trippers
Standard Poodles love to get their four legs on four wheels and hit the road. One of the smartest breeds around, Poodles are easy to train for travel and come in a variety of sizes to suit everything from a sports car to a truck. Plus, they make a great choice for people with allergies because they don’t shed. Drive with your best friend on Route 66 and pull over for a hike in Petrified Forest National Park.