A dog can be man’s best friend or his worst nightmare! Every year, dogs are returned to breeders or given to animal rescue centers because the owner simply couldn’t cope…
True, a dog is for life, and sometimes it can be a problem, but there is a way to ensure that you have the best possible relationship with your canine companion. All you need to do is a little research and a little thought.
Dogs have different personalities, and these will be shaped to some degree by you and the environment you create for your pup. But you can predict a dog’s innate personality (up to a point) by looking at the common traits of each dog breed. The bottom line is that you can minimize any problems simply by taking the time to choose a breed of dog that suits his personality and lifestyle.
Here are the top 10 dog breeds (by popularity) and their most common traits to help you decide which type of dog is best for you:
1. Labrador retrievers.
Labradors are medium-sized, intelligent family dogs. They are arguably the most popular dog breed in the world and it’s no wonder. Labradors are the perfect dog for families with small children. They are not overly sensitive or moody and love to be around small children.
If you are the type who loves dogs, choose a labrador retriever. If you have a family with small children, this may be your best option.
2. Yorkshire Terrier.
Affectionately known as Yorkies, they are small dogs with a big personality. They are considered a “toy breed”, but they are terriers, so they are still courageous and energetic.
Yorkies are beautiful, but they can be high-maintenance, mainly due to their appearance. They are very independent and very intelligent. But they will need your daily attention, so if you’re the type to have a lot of time on your hands, Yorkies would be perfect for you.
3. German shepherd.
German Shepherds are medium-sized herding dogs. They are mainly used in police training and obedience schools, as they are highly intelligent and have well-developed guarding instincts.
This breed is extremely loyal and very protective. German Shepherds are very active dogs and would require larger spaces to live and exercise. Also, because they are very intelligent, you would not have any difficulty in training them. If you want your own watchdog, the best thing to do is buy a German Shepherd.
4. Golden retriever.
Much like a Labrador retriever, this breed is one of the friendliest, if not THE friendliest, out there. Affable and good-natured are the best descriptions for this type of dog, which is why children tend to like the Golden Retriever the most among all breeds. However, they make poor watchdogs because they can be very social even with strangers.
5. Beagles.
Beagles are hounds. Medium in size and low maintenance, they can be a perfect house pet.
They love to bark and howl, so you should think twice if you live in a small apartment. They are neither too aggressive nor too friendly. But once you earn their trust, beagles can be one of the most affectionate breeds. Just remember that, like all dogs, beagles are pack animals, so you shouldn’t leave them alone for too long or they will suffer from separation anxiety.
6. Boxers.
This breed is often entered into show dog shows due to its height and physique. Boxers are alert and sporty, and make excellent companions or watchdogs. Despite their intimidating appearance, Boxers are one of the friendliest dog breeds around, especially around children. Boxers love to be with people they trust.
Choose this breed if you already have an active lifestyle, where you can afford to take your dog out for exercise at least 1-2 times a day.
7. Dachshunds.
This breed is also known as a “wiener” dog due to its similarity to a hot dog in shape. Don’t be put off by their appearance though – dachshunds can make excellent watchdogs. Small but brave – that’s the perfect way to describe this breed.
Dachshunds in general are active hunting dogs. They love to chase anything that moves so you have to keep up if you want to own one. They are very lively and will even challenge any dog twice their size. There will never be a dull moment if you live with a dachshund.
8. Poodles.
Due to their appearance (their curly coat to be precise), Poodles are considered high maintenance breeds. But this is a perfect example of never judging a book by its cover, or in this case, its coat.
Poodles are one of the MOST intelligent breeds. They are easy to train, agile and highly perceptive. But they also get bored easily, so they often find themselves in trouble. Poodles are one of the only dog breeds that come in all three sizes (small, medium, and large), so you can take your pick.
Poodles make good companions, but they’re not great with young children, so make sure you pick the right one…
9. Shih-tzu.
They are small, compact and intrepid (as their name suggests, Shih Tzu = lion). Shih Tzus combine courage and beauty, which generally means you must have a lifestyle that allows you to spend time each day not only walking him, but also grooming him. Their long, flowing coats usually need daily attention.
They are playful, active and intelligent. However, they are very difficult to tame, so you will probably need a little more patience and time with them.
10. Bulldogs.
Bulldogs are stocky, medium-sized dogs. They are not usually perceived as lapdogs (and with their physical disposition who would be), but they would like to be… Their somewhat grumpy expression might make you think they are moody and hard to get along with, but you wouldn’t. be further from the truth.
Bulldogs are very adorable and friendly, albeit with a bit of stubbornness. They are good with children and get along well with other pets. So if you have a cat at home, the bulldog could be the perfect companion not only for you, but also for your cat.
At the end of the day, selecting the best breed for your personality and lifestyle is like choosing a mate: you have to match or things will be difficult. Don’t be tempted to buy a puppy just because it looks cute—do yourself and him a big favor and learn a little about each dog breed.
If you are an active person, choose an agile and active dog. If you spend your days in front of the TV, get up and exercise… Okay, I’m kidding… If your lifestyle is filled with long work days or too much free time, buy a dog that doesn’t need a lot of attention or exercise (although all dogs need attention, so if you’re too busy to give it, consider a cat instead).