Best (and worst) dog breeds for first time owners

Outlined below are some of the most common dog breeds in the UK, split into what I feel are the best and worst choices for first-time dog owners. While this list will not apply to everyone—especially those who have done thorough research and live a highly active lifestyle —it aims to guide the average person seeking the joy and companionship of owning a dog. If you’re looking for a canine companion without the need for intensive training or extreme physical activity, keep reading to find what breed might be the best fit for you.

Best dog breeds for first time owners

1. Whippet

Possibly, in my opinion, the BEST breed for a first time owner. Very few breed associated health conditions. A medium size breed they make excellent companions and love a cuddle. Will be happy with short 20 minute walks during the week but if you want to they can accompany you for longer weekend walks as you desire. Added bonus of choosing adorable jumpers/coats (their thin fur and skin means this is genuinely needed here in the UK). Their only flaw is their prey drive, if they see something small and furry running, they are gone.

2. Greyhound

While it's true that greyhounds are large dogs, they are surprisingly easy to care for. Known for their ‘couch potato’ nature, greyhounds are content to sleep all day alongside 2 x 20 minute walks. Like whippets, they belong to a group of dogs with a strong prey drive, meaning they are instinctively drawn to chase anything small, furry, and fast-moving. New owners should be mindful of this and keep their greyhounds on a lead or off lead in a securely fenced area. Additionally, caution is advised around cats. Although some greyhounds can adjust to living with cats, most have a strong desire to chase, making it generally advisable for them to live in a cat-free household. Here in the UK Greyhound trust is a large charity that rehomes racing greyhounds, take a look at their website here.

3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (CKCS)

I debated putting this breed on to this list due to their health concerns, but have ended up including them here at spot number 3. Their loving temperaments, kind personalities and low exercise demands make them ideal first dog material. However the breed has been plagued with health issues such as heart disease and a neurological issue called chiari like malformation (where the brain is too big for the skull). This causes painful life changing and life shortening symptoms. This syndrome has even led to Norway to ban the breeding of these dogs. So whilst their personality, temperament and size are pretty much perfect I would advise to look for a CKCS crossbreed or to check carefully with any breeder for health issues in the line before falling in love with a puppy/dog.

4. Jack Russell Terrier x Dachshund

Dachshunds and jack russells are both wonderful small breed dogs - their crosses are much healthier and just as adorable. Much like the whippet they can be content with shorter 20-30 minute weekday walks but can happily handle longer outings at weekends. They don’t shed much, generally love a cuddle and are a very practical small size.

5. Jack Russell Terrier x Pug

Pugs have the most wonderful personalities. They are let down by the poor breed health that comes with being a brachycephalic dog (a dog with an excessively flat face). Crossing them with something like a jack Russell helps counteract these health issues whilst retaining most of the pugs charming characteristics. They have a low exercise demand, won’t want to go out in bad weather and don't shed much.

6. Labrador

One of the most common breeds in the UK. You will still need to walk this dog for 45-60 minutes a day. But beyond this they are happy to enjoy lazing around the house. They tend to shed a fair amount, and can be the worst sort of scavengers out and about so watch for this food drive which tends to be their only flaw for a first time owner.

7. Golden Retriever

Beautiful dogs with lovely temperaments, they make a great family pet. As with Labradors expect to get out walking for 45-60 minutes a day, but they tend to relax once they have had this. They moult a lot so their only flaw is you will end up doing a lot of grooming and hoovering.

8. Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Staffie)

Staffordshire Bull Terriers, or Staffies, are ideal for first-time dog owners due to their affectionate and gentle nature. They form strong bonds with their families and are loyal companions. They have manageable exercise needs (around 30-60 minutes a day) and do not require grooming due to their short coat. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them easy to train, perfect for beginners.

9. Springer spaniel or working cocker spaniel

Despite their high energy levels, both cocker and springer spaniels deserve a place on this list. Although they require significantly more exercise and training compared to many other breeds, the rewards are well worth the effort. Most spaniels need 90-120 minutes of exercise daily, though this can be lessened if they are engaged in training sessions, obedience, agility, or gundog work. With their strong desire to please their owners, spaniels make fantastic companions and excellent partners for running or training activities.

10. Mixed breed dogs

Whilst not technically a breed, heinz 57’s or crossbreeds deserve a mention. Many rescue charities exist with the most amazing crossbreed dogs up for adoption and they should always deserve consideration. Generally crossbreed dogs can suffer fewer health issues than purebred dogs which is a huge positive. When considering a crossbreed talk with the charity or breeder about likely breeds in the mix to help guide if the dog is suitable for your home or not. For instance a border collie x Husky mix will be a completely different kettle of fish to a pug x jack Russell terrier mix.

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Worst dog breeds for first time owners

Generally the breeds listed here as worst are only here because of the intense amount of exercise, training and mental stimulation they require. If you feel prepared to offer this lifestyle then these breeds will be hugely rewarding to own and live with, in a suitable home they can be wonderful companions but make sure to do your research before committing to a breed like this.

1. Border Collie

Border Collies are renowned for their intelligence, agility, and incredible work ethic, making them one of the most capable herding breeds. You only need to search YouTube for ‘sheepdog trials’ to see the incredible work they do. They have been bred for decades to hone their ability and desire to WORK. And they would like to work ALL DAY. Highly energetic and driven, they require ample mental and physical stimulation, excelling in activities like obedience, agility, and herding trials. Their strong desire to work and please their owners makes them highly trainable, but they need consistent and engaging tasks to prevent boredom. This remarkable intelligence and drive mean they can quickly develop undesirable behaviours such as car chasing, fly snapping, and excessive barking if not properly stimulated. Border Collies often learn these behaviours before owners realize, making correction challenging. Overall I would never recommend a border collie as a pet unless the potential owner understands these aspects of the breed and is committed to working the dog which is when they are happiest.

2. Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are strikingly beautiful dogs known for their endurance, friendly nature, and strong pack instincts. Bred for pulling sleds over long distances, they are highly energetic and require ample exercise and mental stimulation. Their independent and sometimes stubborn nature can make training a challenge. Huskies are also known for their strong prey drive and tendency to escape, requiring secure fencing. Due to their high energy, need for consistent training, and potential behavioural issues if not adequately stimulated, Siberian Huskies are not ideal for first-time owners. They thrive best with experienced handlers who can meet their specific needs. In addition to this they are best suited to cold climates and can struggle in the UK where even our spring/summer period can be too warm for them.

3. Dalmatian

Dalmatians are known for their distinctive spotted coats, high energy levels, and strong, playful personalities. Originally bred as carriage dogs, they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Their intelligence and independence can make training a challenge, often requiring experienced handling to manage their sometimes stubborn nature. Additionally, Dalmatians are prone to certain health issues, such as deafness and urinary problems, which need careful management. Dalmatians may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners. They thrive with owners who can provide consistent, active, and informed care.

4. German Shepherd (Alsatian)

German Shepherds (also known as Alsatians) are highly intelligent, loyal, and versatile dogs. Best known for their work in police, military, and service roles. They require substantial physical and mental exercise to prevent boredom and develop their full potential. Their protective nature and strong bond with their owners can lead to overprotectiveness if not properly socialized. Training a German Shepherd requires consistency, patience, and experience due to their strong will and need for structure. Additionally, they are prone to certain health issues like hip dysplasia. Due to their training needs, potential behavioural issues, and health concerns, German Shepherds might not be ideal for first-time dog owners