Dogs come in all shapes and sizes - the UK Kennel Club recognises 221 different pedigree dogs, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
Then there are all manner of crossbreeds, from so-called ‘designer dogs’ to lovable mongrels.
Each has its own list of positive and negative attributes, and it’s important to take plenty of time to think about what breed will fit into your lifestyle the best - for instance a smaller dog if you live in a flat, or a hypoallergenic dog if the mere mention of dog hair makes you think about sneezing.
There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
One thing to take into consideration is whether you are an experienced or new dog owner, with certain breeds far more challenging than others for newcomers to the canine club.
Of course, depending on your lifestyle and circumstances there’s no one size fits all approach – but first time owners should consider breeds that tend to be easy to train, eager to please, and friendly.
Here are 12 of the best breeds for prospective owners who have not had a dog before.
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9. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Small, affectionate, and adaptable, Cavaliers are easygoing lap dogs. They’re great with kids, enjoy cuddling, and don’t require intense exercise, making them perfect for first-time owners or flat dwellers. | AFP via Getty Images
10. Pug
Playful, charming and affectionate, Pugs thrive on human company and are pretty low maintenance. They don't need a huge amount of exercise and are happy living in the most modest of homes. | Getty Images
11. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Adaptable to city, country or suburban life, the Soft Coated Wheaten is medium-sized breed of dog that is more easygoing that many of their terrier cousins. They need a decent amount of daily exercise and make a great first-time dog for a family. | AFP via Getty Images
12. Boxer
Instinctively protective towards their owners, the Boxer just adores human affection, making for an instantly adorable pet. They are also great with children and need very little grooming. | AFP via Getty Images