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Top Ten Dogs for Novice Owners

Like most small dogs, the Papillon doesn’t realize he’s not very big.

The nature vs. nurture debate is almost as old as the one about the chicken and the egg. It’s likely that both genetics and environment play a role in determining any dog’s temperament. Training and socialization make a big difference in the way any particular dog will turn out, but the historical strengths of the breed will also play a role.

A big part of the evaluation seems to rely on size, with at least five of the breeds being those where the dogs are less than 18” tall. The Poodle ranked highly, and could be either small or large, depending on the size variety you choose. The other four dogs are medium to large-sized, with no giants on the list.

The experts also included several “designer breeds” on the list – dogs that are the product of cross-breeding two purebreds. It’s unusual, but refreshing, for cross-bred dogs to be included on a list of this type. Keep in mind that cross bred dogs do not have the depth in their pedigree that purebreds do, so it’s hard to generalize about things like temperament and size. Depending on which two individual dogs are mated, and which genes end up being dominant, you can produce very different specimens of the same designer breed. And if you buy from a breeder who mates cross-breed to cross-breed, you have no idea what you are going to get. Responsible designer breeders mate foundation breed to foundation breed. The resultant mixed dog is never used for breeding.

Without further ado, here’s the list:

10. Papillon: Like most small dogs, the Papillon doesn’t realize he’s not very big. He is active and energetic, and will likely want to play with your kids and other dogs. If you’re an active person, this may be just the right fit for you. The small size makes this dog perfect for apartment living, but his high energy will require frequent walks or trips to the dog park.

Cockapoo is a fun and affectionate dog who doesn’t shed very much.

9. Boston Terrier: Bostons are known to be little clowns and can spend hours entertaining you. They are small enough to fit into any living space, and will be happy as long as you spend some time each day with them. They like nothing better than to please you. Their short hair means there’s virtually no grooming required.

8. Bichon Frise: This fluffy little character was bred for no other reason than to be a companion for you and your family. They are very affectionate and enjoy cuddling. A quick daily walk and a buzz cut every 6 – 8 weeks will keep your Bichon healthy and looking good.

7. Labradoodle: The Labrador has been the most popular purebred in America for at least the past ten years, so it’s no surprise that a dog bred from the Lab would also be featured on a list like this one. The size of a Labradoodle depends on the size of the Poodle that was bred with the Lab. Although you won’t find a toy-sized Labradoodle, the dog created from a Lab and toy Poodle will be smaller than a dog created from a Lab and standard Poodle. No matter the size, Labradoodles are usually moderately active, playful, and smart.

6. Goldendoodle: Another cross-breed involving a Poodle, the Goldendoodle’s other half is a Golden Retriever. They often make wonderful family dogs, but they may or may not be hypoallergenic, depending on whether their dander and saliva genes are dominated by the Golden or by the Poodle. Goldendoodles are friendly and intelligent, and their activity level is generally moderate.

5. Cockapoo: Are you sensing a theme here? This dog is again a cross-breed resulting from the mix of a Poodle, this time with a Cocker Spaniel. This particular mix usually produces a fun and affectionate dog who doesn’t shed very much, but does require professional grooming.

4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: This spunky spaniel is a toy breed that is equally happy on your lap, out for a stroll, or playing with your kids. They are friendly with strangers and adaptable to nearly any lifestyle. Positive training methods work best with this slightly stubborn dog, and they are intelligent enough to pick up their lessons quite well.

The quintessential family dog.

3. Labrador Retriever: There’s a reason this dog tops the AKC’s annual list of most popular dogs in the United States. They are smart, relatively easy to train, loving, and athletic. Whether you’re looking for a hunting companion or a canine athlete, the Lab will easily fit into your plans. They are, however, VERY active during a long puppyhood. Patience is required to get to the good part.

2. Poodle: Available in three size varieties, the Poodle is beloved as a family pet. They are not quite as needy as some other breeds, which means you can get your daily chores accomplished without a shadow “helper”. If you keep your Poodle’s coat clipped short, you won’t have any trouble with grooming, but if you plan on a show Poodle coat, be prepared to spend a lot of time visiting a professional groomer. Poodles are one of the few breeds that is truly hypoallergenic and rarely sheds.

1. Golden Retriever: The quintessential family dog, the Golden Retriever is laid back enough to get along with absolutely anybody. Warning: this means they are equally welcoming to the neighborhood ax murderer as to your family members. Aside from his absolute lack of guard dog ability, the Golden has a great reputation as a loving and loyal family member. You will spend some time grooming your Golden unless you keep him clipped, but the dog is such a people-pleaser, you will likely enjoy any time you spend with him.

If you are a more experienced dog owner and looking for a challenge, be sure to check out our Top Ten Dogs for Experienced Owners.