Choosing to welcome a dog into your home - and your heart - is a big decision.
You are committing yourself to looking after an animal who will rely on you for pretty much everything for years to come.
It’s a daunting prospect for new dog owners and it’s worth doing your research before picking the perfect breed for you - there are 221 different pedigree dogs to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of homework to do.
For inexperienced first-time owners it’s worth looking for a breed known to be easy to train, eager to please, naturally friendly and relatively low maintenance.
Here are 14 breeds that tick all those boxes.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Small, affectionate, and adaptable, Cavaliers are easygoing lap dogs ideal for those inexperience in the ways of pups. They’re great with kids, enjoy cuddling, and don’t require intense exercise, making them perfect for flat dwellers, as well as first-time owners. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Poodle
Poodles are incredibly intelligent dogs (second only the the Border Collie according to academic research) and have hypoallergenic coats - explaining their huge popularity around the world. If you are looking for a first dog but are worried about allergies then they are your top pick. They even come in three sizes - Standard, Miniature and Toy - so there's guaranteed to be one to suit your lifestyle and home. | Canva/Getty Images
7. Whippet
Whippets are an unusual mix - being a dog that loves to run but who also adored to nap much of the day away. They have a natural attachment to people and are very friendly, particularly with children and visitors to their home. Essentially, if they get one run a day they are low-maintenance and affectinate pups that present first-timers with little in the way of challenges. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Golden Retriever
What is true of the Labrador Retriever is also usually the case with their close cousin the Golden Retrievers - and that applies to them also being greaty for newbie dog owners. They are gentle, patient, and affectionate, while their calm demeanor and high trainability make them ideal for novice owners - especially families or individuals seeking a loyal, loving companion. Like the Lab though, they need plenty of exercise, so they are only suitable for those happy to get out-and-about on a regular basis. | Canva/Getty Images