What Kind of Dog Should I Get?

By Pets.How Team
| Updated
litter of dogs fall in line beside wall
Camera Icon Hannah Lim / Unsplash

Choosing a dog to bring into your family is an exhilarating process that needs a lot of thought and attention. Here are some things to consider before bringing your new furry friend home:

Size of living space

Dogs come in various sizes, and each size has different space requirements. Larger dogs generally need more room to move around and may feel cramped in a small living space. Smaller dogs, on the other hand, can be more adaptable to limited living spaces.

Energy level

Next, think about your energy level. Are you a marathon runner or more of a couch potato? A high-energy dog will be great for someone who loves to be active, but a low-energy dog might be the perfect match for a more laid-back lifestyle.

Grooming needs

Don't forget about grooming needs. Some breeds have hair that sheds a lot, while others may shed less. If you're not into doing daily brushings, you might want to steer clear of those fluffy breeds.

Training needs

Training is also important. Some breeds are natural geniuses when it comes to learning new tricks, while others may need a little more patience and training. If you're a first-time dog owner, it might be best to start with a breed that's known to be easy to train.

Lifestyle and purpose

Lastly, think about the purpose of the dog. Some breeds are great hunters, some are amazing herders, and others make great therapy dogs. Some dogs may be happy to go on a jog with you while others may just want to lay on your couch. Think about what you want to do with your new pup, and look for a breed that excels in that area.

Just remember to have fun and enjoy the process of finding your new companion. And don't forget to visit a dog shelter, you never know, you might find your perfect match there!

Active dogs

Border Collie: Border Collies are renowned for their intelligence and incredible work ethic. They have abundant energy and require plenty of physical and mental stimulation.

Australian Shepherd: Australian Shepherds are agile and active dogs, originally bred for herding livestock. They thrive in environments where they can participate in activities like agility, obedience, or herding trials.

Labrador Retriever: Labs are known for their friendly nature and love for activities. They have high energy levels and enjoy swimming, running, playing fetch, and engaging in other forms of exercise.

Jack Russell Terrier: Jack Russells are small, but they are bursting with energy. They are agile, intelligent, and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and well-behaved.

Siberian Husky: Huskies are known for their endurance and love for running. They have a strong desire to be active and require regular exercise and mental engagement to prevent boredom.

Belgian Malinois: The Belgian Malinois is a highly active and intelligent breed often utilized in working roles such as police and military work, search and rescue, and dog sports. They have a high drive for physical and mental activities.

Vizsla: Vizslas are energetic and affectionate dogs, known for their hunting abilities. They require regular exercise, such as running, hiking, or playing fetch, to channel their energy.

Whether you're into hiking, running, or playing fetch, these breeds are sure to keep up with your active lifestyle.

Lower activity dogs

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Cavaliers are affectionate and gentle companions. They have moderate exercise needs and are happy with regular walks and playtime indoors.

Shih Tzu: Shih Tzus are small, companion-oriented dogs that prefer a cozy and relaxed lifestyle. They enjoy short walks and indoor play sessions but are generally not high-energy dogs.

Bulldog: Bulldogs have a laid-back demeanor and are known for their calm and friendly nature. They have relatively low exercise requirements and are content with daily walks and moderate playtime.

English Bulldog: English Bulldogs have a calm and docile nature. They have low energy levels and require moderate exercise, such as short walks and playtime, to keep them healthy and prevent weight gain.

Pug: Pugs are known for their charming and laid-back personalities. They enjoy leisurely walks and playtime, but they are generally content with shorter bursts of exercise and plenty of cuddle time.

Remember that individual dogs may vary in their activity levels, even within a specific breed. It's essential to consider factors such as age, health, and personality when assessing the exercise needs and activity level of a specific dog.