Choosing the perfect dog can feel like falling in love—exciting, a little nerve-wracking, and completely life-changing. But with hundreds of breeds out there, how do you know which one is “the one”?
Whether you’re looking for a furry friend to match your energetic lifestyle or a calm companion for quiet evenings, the best dog breeds to own come in all shapes, sizes, and temperaments. These dogs aren’t just cute—they’re known for being well-rounded, adaptable, and joyfully devoted to their humans.
Today, we’ll help you find your ideal match by highlighting the breeds that shine brightest in homes just like yours. From family favorites to low-maintenance stars, these pups are as dependable as they are adorable.
So, whether you’re a first-time dog parent or adding to your pack, let’s discover which dog breed might just be your next best friend.
Best Dog Breeds to Own
1. Beagle
Beagles are like that friend who’s always up for an adventure, full of energy, and always happy to tag along—whether it’s a walk in the park or a hike through the woods.
Described as “merry” by their fans, these dogs are the embodiment of happiness and companionship. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), it’s no surprise that the Beagle has remained a favorite hound breed among American pet lovers for years. With their big, soulful eyes and a tail that rarely stops wagging, Beagles make wonderful family pets.
However, let’s not forget their most famous trait—their nose! With a sense of smell that could rival a bloodhound, a Beagle will often follow the scent trail even if you’ve called them back 10 times.
Training a Beagle can be a bit of a challenge, as their independence often wins over their obedience. But with patience, consistency, and a treat in hand, you’ll have a loyal and wonderful companion who’s always by your side (or leading you on a scent trail somewhere).
Fun Fact: Beagles are social butterflies. They hate being left alone for long, so if you work long hours, maybe consider getting them a Beagle buddy. Otherwise, get ready for a barking concert when you return!
2. Bichon Frise
If you could bottle happiness, it would probably come in the form of a Bichon Frise. These little balls of fluff are energetic, playful, and always ready to brighten your day.
With their adorable white curly coats and perky personalities, it’s impossible not to smile when you see one of these pups hopping around. Weighing between 10 to 20 pounds and standing about 9.5 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder.
Due to their lower shedding compared to many other breeds, they’re often labeled as “hypoallergenic.” However, it’s essential to understand that no breed is entirely hypoallergenic, since all dogs produce some level of allergens.
Due to their small size, these little dogs, Bichon Frises, make great apartment dogs. They can also be excellent companions for any home, including those with first-time owners.
Bichons may be small, but they have big hearts (and surprisingly big energy). They need at least an hour of exercise a day—whether it’s a brisk walk, a playful game of fetch, or just running around in the yard.
The Bichon Frise is highly trainable, highly intelligent, and quick to learn. They are eager to please their owners and can easily master tricks, as well as potty training and basic cues like “sit” and “stay,” thanks to their sharp minds.
Despite their energetic bursts, they’re just as happy to curl up on the couch for a little nap once they’ve gotten their playtime in.
Fun Fact: Bichons may look like they belong in a royal court, but they’re just as content snuggling on your lap after a fun play session. Don’t be fooled by their prim appearance—these pups are ready for some serious fun, especially with children!
3. Collie
Collies are like the superheroes of the dog world—loyal, loving, and always ready to protect their family. The Collie is a medium-to-large dog breed, typically weighing between 50 and 75 pounds and standing around two feet tall at the shoulder.
They have an instinct to look out for their loved ones, which makes them incredibly devoted companions. Their calm and gentle nature makes them perfect for families with kids, and they’re often very patient with younger children.
These intelligent pups also excel in dog sports like agility and herding, so don’t be surprised if they try to herd the kids or chase after the frisbee with Olympic-level enthusiasm. Collies are known for their beautiful coats, which make them great show dogs. To keep their coat healthy and looking its best, regular grooming is essential.
They do best when they’re with their humans, so if you’re looking for a dog who’s content to just hang out with the family, a Collie is a great choice. But keep in mind, if you don’t give them much exercise, they might develop some unwanted behaviors, like excessive barking.
Collies are also known to be eager to please, making training a breeze (as long as you’re using positive reinforcement—no need for harsh tactics here). They thrive on affection and will repay your love with a heart full of loyalty.
Fun Fact: Collies are so dedicated that they often become emotionally in tune with their family. So, if you’re feeling down, your Collie will probably be right there, offering a comforting snuggle.
4. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are like the puppy version of a warm hug—genuine, loving, and always ready to make you smile.
Originally bred in the Scottish Highlands as hunting companions, these dogs have become one of the most popular family pets worldwide, and for good reason! With their strong, muscular build and luxurious golden coat, they’re both a sight to behold and a heart to love.
Golden Retrievers are incredibly affectionate dogs and have an uncanny ability to get along with everyone, from kids to strangers.
Their high intelligence makes them great learners and the perfect candidates for service work. Whether it’s guiding a person with disabilities or participating in search-and-rescue missions, Goldens thrive on being helpful.
However, with all that love and smarts comes a lot of energy and attention needed. Goldens are also high-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their thick, water-resistant coat requires regular brushing to keep it tangle-free. But hey, with their personality, they make it easy to overlook the grooming sessions!
Fun Fact: Goldens are always on the move and love water! If you’re near a lake or a beach, prepare for endless swimming sessions—they were made for it!
5. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is like the Swiss army knife of dogs—versatile, reliable, and excellent at almost everything. Bred initially as hunting dogs, Labs are highly athletic and adaptable.
Whether they’re fetching sticks at the park, aiding in search and rescue, or providing emotional support as therapy dogs, they can do it all. No wonder they’ve been ranked among the most popular dog breeds in the U.S. for years!
Labs are known for their friendly nature and love for people, making them fantastic family pets. Their high energy and need for stimulation mean they thrive in homes that can provide plenty of exercise, from running to hiking or swimming. They have low grooming needs, though they do shed quite a bit, so don’t be surprised if your house is covered in Lab fur!
Fun Fact: Labrador Retrievers have a special “otter-like” tail that’s perfect for swimming. If you’re near a body of water, they’ll likely be the first ones in, wagging their tail like a propeller!
6. Australian Shepherd
If you’re looking for a medium-sized dog that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the Australian Shepherd (or Aussie) is your perfect match.
These high-energy dogs are known for their agility, intelligence, and eagerness to please, making them ideal companions for families who love to stay on the move. Whether it’s running, hiking, or engaging in dog sports, an Aussie will happily follow you through all of life’s adventures.
Aussies are incredibly trainable and enjoy learning new tricks, from basic commands to advanced agility courses. They need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy, so expect lots of playtime and training. Aussies are great family dogs—they’ll bond with you through shared activities and offer tons of affection in return.
Fun Fact: Australian Shepherds are known for their “eye-coloring” skills—some even have one blue eye and one brown, making them one of the most strikingly beautiful breeds out there!
7. Border Collie
When it comes to smarts, agility, and endurance, these great dogs reign supreme. Known for being one of the most intelligent dog breeds, these energetic dogs are always looking for something to do. Whether it’s agility training, herding sheep, or competing in obedience trials, Border Collies are always ready to perform.
Border Collies typically weigh between 30 and 55 pounds and stand 18 to 22 inches tall. The breed usually has a medium-length, double coat of wavy hair, although short-haired Border Collies are also quite common.
Not only are they athletic and fast, but they also thrive when they have a job to do. Border Collies require at least one to two hours of exercise each day, particularly when they are young, to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
They may bark excessively when bored or frustrated, so it’s important to always have an appropriate activity on hand to keep them entertained.
The average lifespan of a Border Collie is 12 to 15 years, and they are generally considered a healthy breed, says PetMD. However, like all dogs, they can develop certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and Collie eye anomaly.
Without enough mental stimulation and physical exercise, they may become bored and develop some undesirable behaviors. They’re friendly with people they know, though they can be a bit reserved around strangers.
Fun Fact: They are the Usain Bolt of the dog world. They can outrun most other breeds, and their herding instincts will have them trying to corral your family members like sheep!
Conclusion
Choosing the best breed for your family or lifestyle depends on various factors, including your activity level, living space, and experience as a dog owner. If you’re a first-time dog owner, a breed like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Shih Tzu might be ideal—these affectionate, easy-to-train dogs are known for their gentle nature and suitability for homes with children or other pets. For those with more active households, breeds like the German Shepherd or Irish Setter offer the mental stimulation and energy needed for daily walks and super active lifestyles.
Larger breeds, such as the Bernese Mountain Dog, the big dog, or the Great Dane, are gentle giants with a sweet demeanor, perfect for those ready for the long fur and dog hair they come with. While these dogs are great companions, they may require extra space and time for daily exercise. It’s also essential to consider the dog’s personality—some breeds have a strong prey drive, like the Basset Hound or Yorkshire Terrier, which can require more focused training and attention.
Whether you’re looking for a beautiful dog with a long coat or an intelligent, strong-willed companion, the right dog for you will be one that fits into your lifestyle and environment. With the right dogs, you’ll have a loyal friend that brings joy, companionship along with their own unique personality, making the journey of dog ownership incredibly rewarding.
