9 Best dogs for first time owners (2024)

Golden Retrievers is a good starter dogs, despite their friendly and goofy appearance, Golden Retrievers possess the intelligence of a 5-year-old human child, ranking among the top breeds at fourth place. Their intelligence and amiability make it easily trainable to basic or advanced obedience standards. Golden Retrievers have a remarkably gentle, intelligent, and affable disposition. In terms of health, Golden Retrievers do not commonly suffer from issues like gastrointestinal problems, making them relatively easy to care for. Therefore, golden retrievers can be the best dogs for first time owners.

The data released by the American Kennel Club shows that the Labrador Retriever has been the most popular breed in 2021 for the 31st consecutive time, Labrador Retrievers are the preferred family companion dogs. Compared to Golden Retrievers, Labradors tend to be quieter, steadier, and have shorter coats, making them the best dog breeds for beginners. In terms of temperament, Labrador Retrievers are gentle, loyal, and non-aggressive. While Labradors do have emotions, they are generally more stable compared to Golden Retrievers. They rank sixth in intelligence and it is an easy to train dogs.

Corgi can be the best dogs for new owners, apart from their round, big bottoms and short legs, they also possess decent intelligence. Their food-loving nature and strong curiosity make them relatively easy to train and integrate into families. Most Corgis have a friendly and sociable demeanor, so you don’t have to worry about them scaring off guests. Their affectionate nature makes them a top choice for family companions. However, they can be stubborn and have lower obedience levels, requiring the owner’s patience and companionship.

Poodle is one of the best first time dog breeds for dog owners who prefer small breeds. The Poodle is a small dog breed that is calm and easy to train, ranking first in intelligence among small breeds. Young Poodles can easily understand multiple commands, making them relatively easy to train. In terms of health, apart from a few common ailments like old age issues and cataracts, they generally have no major problems. Additionally, Poodles do not have a strong body odor, so they do not need frequent baths. They also have small appetites, which means lower expenses on dog food, making them one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners.

According to data provided by the American Kennel Club, the French Bulldog has become the most popular breed in 2022, ending the Labrador Retriever’s 31-year streak. French Bulldogs is your best beginner dogs are known for their friendliness, non-assertiveness, and quiet. They are low energy, medium sized dogs who spend most of their time either eating or sleeping. However, their food-loving nature also makes training them relatively easier, and they don’t require a lot of exercise, making them perfect for indoor living.

If you are looking for best starter dogs Shiba Inu is a great choice. Shiba Inus are known for their cleanliness, despite shedding quite a bit, they have minimal body odor. Regular grooming and occasional baths are usually sufficient to keep them clean. Shiba Inus generally have good health conditions, aside from common age-related eye and joint issues, they are less prone to infections. Shiba Inus are highly independent and can tolerate their owners’ absence for long periods. Shiba Inus can be good first time dogs, but their cat-like personalities, including aloofness, boldness, and cunningness, should be considered.

Among all dog breeds, the Border Collie has the highest intelligence, equivalent to that of a 7 to 8-year-old child. They have exceptional learning abilities and memory, and they are adept at reading their owner’s expressions and acting accordingly. For those who know how to train dogs, Border Collies are the best dogs for first time owners to train; they quickly understand your intentions. Border Collies are enthusiastic and curious about new things, but can be mischievous in daily life. Due to their herding instincts, they require ample exercise and outdoor activities to maintain their physical and mental health.

For owners who prefer cute small dogs, Bichon Frise are among the best first time dog breeds. Bichon Frise generally do not shed much, but as curly-coated dogs, they are prone to matting if not regularly groomed. Being small-sized dogs, Bichon Frise have small appetites and require minimal exercise, and they also have relatively little body odor. They have lively, playful personalities and enjoy spending time with their owners. Bichon Frise rank 45th in terms of intelligence among dog breeds, so training may require more patience and guidance.

The Pomeranian would be the best dog for first time owners who love small, cute, and exquisite breeds. Pomeranians are beloved by pet enthusiasts for their lively, playful, friendly, and affectionate nature. They may bark and have a bit of a temper, but overall, they are easy to get along with. Ranking 25th in intelligence among dog breeds and 6th among small breeds, relatively easy to train. They don’t require as much outdoor activity as larger breeds and can expend their energy running around the house, making them the best small dog for apartments.