Getting your first dog is a big step and it requires a lot of work to care for a puppy. This is why some dogs are better for first-time owners.
When you look for a dog for the first time, the number of options will be difficult. You should look for breeds that are adaptable, friendly, and easy to train. The three best dogs for first-time owners are Poodles, Labrador Retrievers, and Shih Tzus. All of these breeds are perfect for new owners.
The first time a person buys a dog, they may be overwhelmed by the process of choosing a breed and training it. A lot of first-time dog owners go looking for dogs that are easy to take care of and can be trained very quickly. In this article, we will talk about the best dogs for first-time owners to help them make an informed decision when finding their first dog.
Training a dog for the first time is a different experience that can overwhelm first-time owners. Luckily, the breeds included in this guide are all great at learning your commands quickly and they are easier to care for.
6 Best Dogs For First Time Owners
Dogs are an essential part of our lives and they are considered to be a normal, everyday thing in most households. This is why it is especially true for first-time owners, making it important to find a pet that fits your lifestyle.
The best dogs for first-time owners are those that have low maintenance needs. They don’t need as much exercise or grooming daily because they are more sedentary. They also tend to be more gentle and calm with a less energetic personality.
First-time dog owners have different needs than those who have owned dogs for years. It’s important to take into account your specific needs so that you can find a dog best suited for you. Below are some of the best dogs for you to consider as a first-time owner.
1. Poodle

Poodles are the best breed of dog for first-time owners because they are intelligent, easy to train, and have an impressive lifespan. They make sense of new surroundings quickly and can learn tricks easily.
This is a smart breed that is especially well-suited for first-time pet owners. They are gentle, affectionate, and intelligent. They are also known to be stubborn but also friendly with children and other dogs.
Poodles are the perfect choice for first-time owners who want to have a companion they can rely on. Poodles know how to be loyal and gentle with their owners, making them an excellent choice for someone new to dogs.
They're also naturally hypoallergenic because they don't shed very much. The coat is known to repel dirt, dust, and allergens that irritate people with allergies. However, it does require regular maintenance and grooming.
2. Labrador Retriever

In the United States, there are more Labradors than any other breed of dog. They have been the most popular breed for many years and are a top choice for first-time dog owners. They have a loveable temperament and are easy to train.
Labrador Retrievers are known as great family dogs that excel at obedience training, and they make great companions for children because they like to play with them. They are also known for their athletic ability and intellect.
This is one of the most adaptable breeds and can be trained by someone with little experience in animal training. This, combined with their love of people and playfulness makes them an ideal companion for first-time dog owners and those living alone or those who work long hours.
They do need lots of grooming though and they tend to have high energy. They shed a lot and this can cause some owners to shy away from them.
However, they make up for it with their positive attitude and friendly nature. They love outdoor activities too.
3. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a small, compact dog with a naturally smooth-coated coat. They are known for their small nature and gentle temperament and are very friendly with children and adults. They commonly lounge around the house as a perfect lap dog too.
While training is important for any type of pet, it is especially key for this breed. However, exercise is not a priority for these dogs and they are very easy to take care of. They do not need more than a single walk a day at most.
They are low-maintenance pets with longer coats that require minimal grooming and they do not shed too much. They often need to be trained properly to prevent destructive behavior such as barking or digging at furniture.
This little pup needs minimal grooming and can last up to 15years with proper care. These dogs make excellent family pets but should not be used as guard dogs because they don't have large enough body size or teeth shape to kill intruders on their own.
4. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are large, friendly, and affectionate with children and adults alike. They have been bred to keep their owners company but they still have enough energy to play.
They can be great pets for first-time dog owners as they are relatively low-maintenance and easy to train. They also love being around people and will never leave their owner’s side because of this trait.
These dogs are not very high maintenance and can be trained to behave well in an apartment, as long as they're given lots of activity and attention. Even though they're great with kids, take them to obedience classes or introduce them to experienced kids before you adopt one.
Similar to Labrador Retrievers though, they do shed a lot and proper grooming needs to be a priority.
5. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a great dog for first-time owners because they don't require a lot of attention or much grooming to maintain their fur. They are also very playful and loving when they are young which makes them great companion pets when people aren't around.
These dogs are small and plush with a curly coat that makes grooming much easier. They also don’t need a ton of exercise and they have a moderate activity level.
This dog has a playful character that enjoys playing with children and adults alike. They are also highly trainable dogs that develop into loyal companions who enjoy human company because of their friendly nature.
This breed is known as the curly lap dog with a lot of personality and is great for first-time owners. They can be a bit stubborn but they are very loving and intelligent dogs that will never give up on you.
6. Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is an ideal pet for first-time dog owners. They are also known as one of the smartest breeds out there, making them easy to train. Their size is perfect for apartment living or small backyards.
Yorkies are known for being intelligent and loyal, which makes them a good choice of pet for first-time owners. If you're considering getting a puppy, you should be ready for the investment and care that these dogs require.
The Yorkshire Terrier is very friendly, playful, and loyal and they tend to bond with their owners. They also make great family dogs due to their gentle nature and high intelligence.
They are small in size with minimal grooming requirements. However, they can be noisy at times with their bark and they act protective despite their small size.
What To Consider In a Dog For First Time Owners
For first-time dog owners, it is important to consider a few things for a good dog. If you have never owned a dog before, you need to look at the type of breed. Some breeds are not suitable for a new owner and you need to keep in mind that they can be aggressive too.
In determining the breed that is perfect for you, consider your lifestyle and where your home is located. You want to pick a breed that will adapt well with your family and has enough energy for playing outside.
Energy Level
A dog’s energy level is important for first-time owners to consider. If you are looking for a new dog, it can be helpful to learn what level of energy your new pup has.
A dog's energy level can be defined as its willingness to play and explore. Some dogs are more likely to be active than others, but all dogs need exercise and stimulation to stay healthy and well-adjusted.
A low-energy dog may seem like the perfect pet for someone who is always at home, but they will quickly get frustrated if left alone all day. A high-energy dog might not make a good match for someone with little time on their hands or someone who works out of the home.
However, it ultimately depends on what you would prefer from your dog and the amount of time you have to devote to them.
Grooming Needs
First-time owners need to understand the grooming needs of their new dog. This is because these can take hours, days, or weeks depending on the type of dog you are purchasing.
Grooming is not just about keeping your pet clean but also conveying your love for them. It is important to make time for this activity because it shows how much you care about their well-being.
Some dogs are more demanding than others. The grooming needs of different breeds vary as well. For example, some breeds require more bathing and brushing while others need less maintenance
Ease of Training
We all know that dogs are fun to have around, but it can be intimidating for first-time owners to take on the responsibility of training their new canine companion. This is because dogs require a lot of time and attention.
If you're not careful, your dog may end up not being well behaved in the long run. The ease of training can make or break an owner's experience with their new dog. With the help of proper training techniques, dogs will be able to learn quickly and easily without any frustration.
Size
One thing that needs consideration is what type of size of dog works best for your lifestyle and home size. Big dogs require more space than small dogs and small dogs require more attention than big ones.
Choosing the right size for your new dog is an important decision to make because there are many considerations. Different size dogs have different qualities and needs that you need to keep in mind.
Tips For First Time Dog Owners
As the owner of a dog, one may find it difficult to get along with its constant demands. There are a few things that will help new dog owners get through the first few weeks and months of their relationship and raise a healthy and happy dog.
Be prepared for your dog's reactions. Dogs can be unpredictable and they can make you feel like you're in for a long, difficult journey with them. But don't worry, the following tips will make your new pet ownership easier.
Prioritize a Training Routine
First-time dog owners should prioritize training with their dogs because it helps the animals become more obedient and themselves become more patient. You should start preparing for your dog’s training as soon as possible by implementing voice commands.
Dogs need consistency and commitment from their owners and it is important to establish yourself as their leader and teach them what this means. Some specific training methods need to be prioritized to ensure that the dog is well-behaved and not destructive.
Find a Reliable Veterinarian
One of the most important things for first-time dog owners is to find a veterinarian who can help you in understanding how to take care of your newfound friend.
A reliable vet will help you understand the needs, health, and behaviors of your new pet so that he or she grows up healthy and happy. They will also teach you a few key things about caring for a pet so that they live longer too.
Veterinarians also offer consultations and can walk you through what they think could be going on with your pet's health.
Always Dog-Proof Your Home
The first few months of having a dog are exciting, but also scary. It’s natural to want to keep your new pet safe and happy.
It’s important to do everything you can to ensure that, no matter how rough or uninvited they may seem, your dog is not going to make a mess in your home if you allow it.
The best way for this is by creating a safe environment for him by installing doorways with baby gates. There are also some other ways you can dog-proof your home as well, including using chew guards on furniture and protecting outdoor areas from digging.
Don’t Take Your Dogs’ Health Lightly
As a first-time dog owner, you should not take your dog’s health lightly either. There are so many things to keep in mind for a well-rounded healthy diet.
Some tasks can be easy to do and others might be difficult, but you must do so for the sake of your dog’s health. A healthy diet and routine can go a long way. Be sure your dog is getting enough exercise and look for food that is best for them that provides added benefits.
About THE AUTHOR

Russell Wright
I have had dogs my whole life and have always trained my own dogs with patience and positive reinforcement. My dogs are my life. My family always had dogs growing up. I've trained dogs for clients while working at a local dog daycare. I hope that my research and experiences are helpful to you as I share them here.
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