The UK is a nation of dog lovers, with 36% of households owning one. But with over 200 recognised dog breeds in the UK, it can be hard to know which one will best suit your home and lifestyle.
In addition, there are many other things to consider, including how often they need to be taken for walks, if they’re child friendly and if your home is big enough for their needs. And some dogs are harder to train than others, making them a tricky choice for someone who has no experience of owning a dog.
It can all be quite daunting for a first-time dog owner. But luckily, canine behaviourist Will Atherton has shared the three dog breeds he thinks are the best for first-time owners on TikTok. Will explained that he sees every day when “things go horribly wrong” for first-time owners, and if you want to “avoid that fate and set yourself up for success,” there are three breeds he always recommends.
Before you read on, it’s important to note that this is based on opinion, and it’s always important to do your own research before adopting or purchasing a dog.
1. Labrador Retriever
According to Will, the Labrador Retriever is the “king of all dog breeds” and is “amazing with people and other animals”. Another reason they are a great pick for first-time owners is that they are “easy to train and eager to please”, which “sets them up for huge success” stright away.
According to the PDSA vet charity, Labradors are “devoted, affectionate, loving dogs that will happily get along with everyone”. They are also “obedient, quick to learn and eager to please,” whihc makes training them “fairly easy”.
They also “make perfect family pets” if they are “given the right socialisation”. And because they are so affectionate and loving, their patient nature makes them ideal for children.
2. Golden Retriever
According to Will, all the positive aspects mentioned about the Labrador Retriever also apply to the Golden Retriever. However, the dog trainer says they tend to be “a little bit more playful and happy-go-lucky, which some people might prefer”.
The PDSA explains that Golden Retrievers can be great family dogs for “an active family due to their high energy levels”, but they also have “calm natures” and are very intelligent.
Because they are easy dogs to train, they can make good first dogs for new owners. They do need to be socalised well as a puppy, and need to be treated with respect by all family members, including children.
3. Older dogs/mixed breeds
Lastly, Will recommended first-time owners getting “older dogs from a variety of different breeds or just completely mixed” from rescue centres, which he admitted might surprise some people. He added: “If you know what you’re looking for you will be able to find yourself a dog that you don’t have to worry about training, the socialisation, the manners or the toilet training”. Instead you’ll be getting an “awesome dog” which is in “desperate need of a home”.
When it comes to adopting a dog, the rescue centre will decide on which criterea they look for in potential owners. Sometimes dogs that come into their care will have suffered trauma and need careful rehabilitation, and won’t be suitable for first-time owners. The best thing to do is speak to the rescue centre to find out what the best course of action for you, and they’ll be able to help you find a breed to suit your needs.
