Welcome to the world of warm eyes, cheerful grins, furry bodies pressing into your side and wagging tails, and bouncy pups jumping and circling around you with enthusiasm. Pet parenting will be a world full of lots of licking, pawing, cuddling, and nuzzling after you meet these poofy wonders.
These incredible pooches know how to brighten anyone’s day and garner attention in the cutest of ways. You are definitely in for a treat.
Whether you are looking for high-energy companions or some low-maintenance homebodies, these pups will be whoever you want them to be, and love you so much that you’ll forget all your stress, pain, and worries the moment you get home and get tackled by one of these guys.
Friendliest Dog Breeds for First-Time Pet Parents
1. Greyhound
Life expectancy: 10-13 years
Friendliness Level: Ultra Pro Max, they’ll use you as their personal cushy pillow and rest their heads in your lap to cheer you up when you are feeling low.
The first most recommended pup happens to be none other than “the iconic, the beautiful champion sprinter,” a wonderful combination of speed, sweet temperament, and a lot of couch potato energy packed into one lean body.
Gentle giants for active households & laid-back abodes
Continental Kennel Club says Greyhounds are naturally gentle, cuddly, and big versions of a tiny lap dog. They love to nuzzle and snuggle with their pet parents whenever they get the chance.
According to historians, these pooches originated in Egypt, but let us tell you, living with pups will make you feel like a thousand bucks. Because getting a greyhound is like striking a gold mine out of luck.
These graceful hounds have been the object of fascination and intrigue for artists, poets, and kings. If you opt to start the journey of your dog ownership with these dogs, you are in for a lot of unconditional love.
Large, sleek & graceful rockets of the canine kingdom
They’ll require regular brushing, minimal grooming needs, regular exercise, aka less walking, more sprinting, cuddle times, vet visits, and training sessions. A lot of zooming, chasing squirrels and possums, and a whole lot of action in your fenced backyard is also on their to-do list.
The greyhounds were originally bred to be sighthounds who could hunt game without the help of humans (these buggers are quite independent, hence you’ll have to bring in the positive reinforcement techniques to get them to do something).
They are also track stars built for success (just check out their aerodynamic skulls to the shock-absorbing pads in their feet, and you’ll be amazed to know what speeds these pups can reach.
P.S. Basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, and recall are crucial for all dog breeds for safety and discipline.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Friendliness Level: Extremely social, they’ll practically sigh and swoon over your existence because they love you that much
This small dog is a dreamer with large, round eyes and a far-off look that gives it an almost poetic and wise tinge that enhances their already soft, sweet, and cuddly appearance. These enthusiastic bird watchers love to follow their owners wherever they go.
Curious explorer dash with a puffy exterior, puppy dog eyes, and an added silky coat! Yes please
Orvis notes that Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are an exceptional combination of lap dogs, with a toy-like temperament and spaniel energy. They make wonderful companions and emotional support therapists, are quite easy-going and fun to live with, and love.
Meet the dreamy part of pet parenthood
Delightfully cute, gentle, sociable, and affectionate dogs, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are sporty dogs who love to romp in the outdoors, and giving their owners snuggles and attention is their favorite pastime.
Hence, if you want your days to be filled with silken fur, floppy, and feathery tails swishing in the air, then get these bubbly mood boosters in canine form today.
Looking for some charming dog energy? Here they come
These pooches are the best dog breed for first-time dog owners because they are highly adaptable. They love seniors and children alike and can adapt to a high-energy, active lifestyle as well as a low-energy, calm, and zen environment.
P.S. First-time dog owners should start training early using positive reinforcement techniques. Moreover, basic obedience training is important for all dog breeds to ensure safety and structure.
3. Pug
Life expectancy: 13-15 years
Friendliness Level: They are like your ever-optimistic friend who’ll be your personal cheerleader and snuggle buddy for life.
These wrinkly-faced dogs seem like they are constantly concentrating and focusing on something really important, like you. Smooth as butter fur, smushed snouts, and a happy-go-lucky attitude meet the Pug. The class clowns of dogdom and the life of every party and household.
A bundle of strong legs, waddly gait, and a whole lot of snoring
These laid-back, enthusiastic foodies were once esteemed companions of the Chinese emperors and still haven’t forgotten about their royal days.
Hence, expect some attitude and royal pickiness from these small, muscular pooches. For Pugs, a dose of daily exercise translates as strutting from the bedroom to your kitchen and then back to the couch.
Omlet asserts that Pugs are round-headed, sparkly-eyed attention-craving wonders that display a wide range of human-like expressions, like surprise, happiness, and curiosity. They draw attention and laughter wherever they go and are mischievous, quick learners with a bit of stubbornness and spoiled brat energy.
Royal Besties bred for companionship and reigning in castles (but will accept your apartment living with fervour if you pamper them with love, attention, and a lot of hugs)
Pet parents looking for a compact, quirky, cuddly, and lively best friend should get these humble, yet spunky, good-natured, and lovable mugs.
Moreover, if you love hobnobbing with royalty and want to experience the glamorous era, get one of these sophisticated guys who’ll teach you every royal etiquette and become your chaperones to the next royal gala or dashing wingmen to the masquerade ball.
P.S. Regular grooming is essential for all dogs, including brushing, ear cleaning, and nail trimming.
4. Golden Retriever
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Friendliness Level: They are so devoted to you that they’ll dive into icy cold water to save you from drowning, slam dunk you on the first sight at the airport, and endearingly adore your existence while you sleep.
Small breeds move aside, the Golden Retriever is here to take over your peppiness. If you are a first-time pet owner and looking for something special and bright, then there is no other dog more adorable, goofy, adaptable, affectionate, and funny than the Golden Retriever, because they are the gold standard for dog breeds.
Need some sunshine in your dull, boring life? Get this sunflower of the canine kingdom, aka the Golden Retriever
VCA Animal Hospitals mentions that these outgoing, trustworthy, social butterflies are a great option as first dogs cause they’ll make your first steps into pet parenting a double luxe VIP golden experience. Friendliness to them should never be measurable, and their motto in life is giving love like spilling water from a bucket; they are not designed to hold back.
All hail for Scotland, who produced this Golden beauty, equipped with healthy confidence and a feathery wagging tail
But it’s not like these dogs are all fluff and no substance because behind all this fluffy exterior lies a strong gun dog with small ears, intelligent eyes, and a powerful gait who is also a serious worker at hunting and field work, is a wondrous guide for the blind, and also a sturdy search and rescue guy.
But hey, if you love life or wanna love your life, get one of these dogs with lustrous golden coats who enjoy competitive events and live life soaking up the spotlight and playing games of fetch.
P.S. Routine veterinary visits are essential for vaccinations and preventive care for dogs.
5. Labrador Retriever
Life expectancy: 11-13 years
Friendliness Level: A true bestie who’ll accompany you through the good, bad, and ugly and tread beside you, making life a much more fulfilling journey
Make way for the novice owners, as the Labrador Retriever is here. You don’t even need to raise an eyebrow because this pooch is pretty much faultless and stands among the most ideal pet breeds for first-time dog owners. We are serious, just bring this dog home without question, and you won’t ever regret your choice.
Extroverted, gracious & best all around – Music to the ears, heavenly for the soul, a perfect pupper for first-time owners
When it comes to choosing a pet, other pets need a lot of research, deliberation, basic training, proper socialisation, and lifestyle assessments to judge whether or not they fit into your life. But when it comes to this medium to large dog breed with an ever-wagging otter tail, broad head, hazel eyes, and sweet face, your search ends.
Featuring the extraordinarily luscious breed available in yellow, black, and chocolate
The Labrador Retriever is not only a charmer but something extraordinary that mere words cannot truly describe. Their high energy, adventurous spirit, versatile nature, and love for humans are indescribable. These eager-to-please pooches are America’s sweethearts and one of the most popular dog breeds that dog lovers cannot stop boasting about.
Hill’s Pet US states Labrador Retrievers aren’t just good dogs, they are great dogs with double coats who make their dog parents fall in love a little bit more every day. These high-spirited pooches serve as police dogs, therapy dogs, service dogs, search and rescue operators, athletes, and family dogs.
Labs do require more regular grooming than other dogs, but their forever happy-go-lucky and friendly temperament makes them the most iconic pets ever. Not to mention that these popular pups can self-train, love rain, and adore everything about water, and have webbed feet that make them great swimmers.
Labs practically live to be a part of human lives, place them in a tight-knit family, in singledom, a senior home, or among a bunch of kids, and they’ll be their happiest selves just about anywhere.
P.S. A well-balanced diet is crucial for a dog’s healthy development and longevity, hence make sure your Lab gets its protein and nutrients on time.
6. Border Terrier
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Friendliness Level: They’ll match your energy every step of the way, and if you live in the country, these eager-to-please, bold, and plucky pooches will be ideal for you.
Why are we recommending this bold, brave, and independent pup to first-time dog owners? Because they are upbeat, agile, and constantly happy to stay by your side. If you think pet parenthood is a straight ticket to enjoying living life to the fullest, then these tough dogs are the right dogs for you.
Admirable hardcore country dogs and feisty urban dwellers
If you are a star athlete yourself and love living life on the edge, the Border Terrier with a strong prey drive, ample need for mental stimulation, and a highly intelligent, bold, and friendly nature is the right breed for you.
Keep in mind that life with a Border Terrier is never going to be dull, but only that these guys know how to stand up for themselves and are sassy enough to handle whatever life throws at them.
No-frills, easy-to-maintain playmates and hunters
Purina UK says equipped with a wiry coat, otter head, long legs, and a hard-working nature, these good dogs with a highly trainable, affectionate, and even temperament are the answer to the dreams of any first-time dog owner. Just keep your meowing and chirping friends away from these pooches, or you’ll trigger their hunting instincts.
P.S. Daily exercise is necessary for all dogs to stay fit and mentally stimulated, and it is also crucial to prevent behavioral issues.
7. Dachshund
Life expectancy: 12-16 years
Friendliness Level: They hope you love them, coz if you don’t, they’ll throw a huge fit, aka separation anxiety
These friendly, charming, low-maintenance divas are loud, vivacious, and spunky with a dash of stubbornness that adds flair to their interesting attitude. When we say that certain breeds are born to be companions, the Dachshunds with their multi-talented, and funny vibe definitely make the list as they are the perfect short-legged cuties for new pet parents.
The vigilant observer & smart burrower who’s game for anything, especially scent work, which is their speciality, and if they find a badger on the trail, they’ll howl like a banshee to let you know
Warriors by hearts and hunters by soul, these diligent sausage-bodied patrollers love to alert their owners to the very important things going on in the neighbourhood, keeping you well-informed of every little detail, from which new delivery guy entered the neighborhood’s parking lot to which new mailman is now trespassing on your private property.
Lo, and behold, the loyal, brave, and confident Dachshund with proud eyes and a whole lot of playfulness
According to PDSA, these mischievous and silly pups have true gossip girl energies and would become your homies in less than a week. But beware that the famously long yet short Dachshunds aren’t built for long sprints, leaping, and strenuous swimming because their stubby legs and fragile backs cannot take this much pressure.
Featuring a purebred German dog with an unmistakable yet endlessly long and low silhouette
These fine watchdogs with big-dog barks are truly the superstars and pop icons of the canine world. They are incredible little dogs with big personalities who love to nap all day and don’t need a treadmill to log their walked miles per day.
Need just about a bit of moderate grooming every month, regular brushing, and a whole lot of love and snuggles.
P.S. Training is not optional as it ensures safety and discipline. Moreover, first-time dog owners must commit time daily to their dog’s physical and emotional needs.
Conclusion
These prime breeds for first-time dog owners have true BFF energies; they’ll convey every gossip of the town, accompany you in styling for the day, and give you great, unfiltered opinions and advice. Protect you from every harm, keep your secrets safe, and share those inside jokes with you with equal fervor.
They live for human interaction and will suffer from separation anxiety the moment you pick up your car keys or head to the door. Expect them to already miss you.
Will turn sad and grumpy if you don’t let them smother you with kisses or snuggle in your bed. These dog breeds are high on oxytocin and low on needs, hence the perfect cup of tea or coffee for first-time owners.
P.S. Know this that mixed-breed dogs can also be excellent companions and may fit various lifestyles just like pure-bred dogs. Popular pups like labradoodles, bernadoodles, and goldendoodles are an example of great mix-breed dogs that make great options for first-time pet parents.
