Marriage comes with a lot of decisions: joint bank accounts, who takes out the trash, and most importantly… which dog breed to get.
According to the APPA study, 68 million households in the U.S. own a dog. Plus, studies show that dog-owning couples argue less and laugh more. Coincidence? We don’t think so.
A pup can be the perfect canine companion and a third wheel to your relationship. The right dog can add just the right fluff to your happily ever after.
Dog Breeds for Married Couples
Now, before you rush to the nearest shelter yelling “Give us the fluffiest doggy,” let’s slow our tails. The best dog breed for you as a couple depends on your lifestyle, living situation, and tolerance for chewed-up shoes.
Some dogs are couch potatoes who can binge-watch Netflix with you all day, while others need hikes, fetch, and even a protein shake.
We have rounded up the breeds that bring joy, loyalty, and a little laughter to your married life. Let’s meet the pooches that will be your ultimate sock robbers!
1. Labrador Retriever
Ah, the Labrador retriever, the golden boy of the doggo world and basically the Lab of Love. Labrador retrievers are like the extroverted friend who hosts game nights and remembers everyone’s birthdays.
Labs love everyone: your spouse, your in-laws, the mailman, that squirrel on the fence. They are highly intelligent and trainable, so they won’t embarrass you at the dog park.
They are athletic, too, which means they love physical stimulation. Moreover, they are lovable towards kids if your ‘just us’ turns into ‘us plus one’ someday!
Whether you prefer apartment living or you have a backyard at your house, Labrador retrievers adapt fast, as long as they have enough playtime and, of course, treats.
2. French Bulldog
Wait, are you the super busy couple? Then, meet the French Bulldog, aka the couch potato. It has a compact size, and its personality is full of drama. It is ideal for couples who want an affectionate-natured dog breed without cardio.
French Bulldogs have low energy levels and would rather nap on your thighs all day than run a marathon. It makes them perfect for city apartment living situations.
They have got big personalities in small bodies. They don’t bark much, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). And they bond closely with their fav humans and will follow you everywhere.
Plus, their snoring might drown out your partner’s. French Bulldogs are ideal for couples who love goofy energy levels, manageable maintenance, and unconditional snorts of love. No long walks needed, just some belly rubs and treats!
3. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers can complete your rom-com marriage with their gentle temperament and friendly nature. They wake up every day like it is their birthday, and you are their cake!
These dogs radiate sunshine, and if your relationship could use a little more golden-hour glow, this is your dog.
Golden retrievers have a super affectionate nature and are great for couples who argue about whether the dog will sleep in the bed (Spoiler: the golden retriever will win!). They make excellent companions and great family pets.
They need daily walks and a bit of a play session. Fetch is life! But they are not chaotic energy. More like an organized joy package. Grooming-wise, get ready for a little brushing and a lot of ‘is that your hair or the dog’s?’
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Imagine a royal in a velvet robe who loves belly rubs and snacks. That is the Cavalier King Charles spaniel. It was developed in England as a lap dog, according to Britannica.
These little lovebugs are basically the Jane Austen character of dog breeds. They are classy, affectionate, and ready to faint in your lap at any time.
They are small, quiet, and beautifully behaved, ideal for couples living in an apartment. Cavalier King Charles spaniels adjust in small spaces.
Exercise needs? They only need a short, nice walk and a brief play session, like playing fetch. No crazy gym routines here. They are ideal for couples with a busy lifestyle.
5. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Corgis prove that good things come in small packages. With their little legs, big personalities, and ‘I run this house’ attitude, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are for couples who want laughs and more Insta content!
These herding champs are surprisingly athletic, despite the loaf-of-bread kind of body. They love playtime and brisk walks, and yes, they will try to herd you and your spouse into the kitchen.
Corgis are smart, maybe too smart. They will open cabinets, learn your habits, and absolutely know who dropped that piece of chicken.
They are alert, loyal, and fiercely devoted, making them an excellent choice as watchdogs (with the bark of a dog twice their size).
6. Poodle
Are you or your partner allergic? Then these hypoallergenic dogs are the best choice for you. Poodles are elegant, intelligent, and somehow never have a bad hair day.
These dogs are scary smart. They pick up on commands quickly, love to learn tricks, and will probably start organizing your home if you don’t keep them busy.
Poodles are affectionate, people-loving pooches who enjoy snuggling just as much as they love agility. Plus, their hypoallergenic coat makes them a great choice for allergy-prone people.
Grooming? Yes, it is a thing. You will either become besties with your groomer or learn to love clippers. But the fluff is definitely worth it!
7. Bichon Frise
Think of the Bichon Frise as a living marshmallow. Soft, sweet, and just the right amount of bougie. This cotton ball cutie is ideal for couples who want a happy-go-lucky companionship with minimal drama and maximum charm.
Bichons are playful little charmers that act like every day is their birthday. They love attention, but not in a needy way. More like, “Excuse me, did you forget I am adorable?” They are an excellent choice as mood boosters.
They also have a hypoallergenic coat, which is great for couples where one of them sneezes near pollen and the other is married to essential oils.
Exercise-wise, they need some light walks and fun indoor play, but they won’t require mountain hikes or beach runs unless you are into that.
They are compact, playful, and don’t shed like maniacs. Just keep their cloud coat trimmed. The biggest risk? You may start dressing them in sweaters that match yours. And honestly… we support it.
Conclusion
In the grand love story of you and your spouse, adding a dog might be just the perfect next chapter. Whether you are a chill duo who loves movie nights or a couple who lives for outdoor adventures, there is always a dog breed for you.
From the goofy charm of Labrador to the royal cuddles of Cavalier, each of these pups brings something special to the relationship.
So go ahead and pick your fluffy soulmate and prepare for more love, laughter, and fur-covered furniture. You won’t regret it!
