Choosing a dog can be quite difficult if you haven’t had a pet before. You need a puppy that suits your needs, whether it’s a family friendly dog, a calm dog, one that is easy to train, a dog for a small house, etc. We will be looking at some suggestions for each of these needs and more!
1. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular breeds of dogs due to its friendliness and loyalty towards its family. It is perfect if you are looking for a child-friendly dog, no matter the children’s age. It will never lash out at you, your family, or any other pets you may have and is very easy to train.
It is very loving and adapts easily around small children, withstanding even the toughest of tail pulls by your child. However, the Golden Retriever can grow to be very large, as it is not a small breed. Males can reach from 20 to 24 inches tall and weigh from 65 to 75 pounds; Females can reach from 21.5 to 22.5 inches tall and weigh from 55 to 65 pounds. These dogs are very needy, and therefore demand a lot of attention and love. They do not like to be left alone for long periods of time.
2. Boston Terrier
As opposed to the Golden Retriever, the Boston Terrier is a small breed of dogs. They range from 38cm-43cm tall and weigh from 4.5- 11 kg. These dogs need to be kept indoors most of the time as they are very sensitive to heat and cold and have very sensitive eyes. When asleep, they are prone to snoring due to their small snouts.
They like to take walks since they are very energetic. They love children and tend to be very sociable with other pets, including their own breed. It is also very loyal and loving, although some males can be a bit territorial, they are usually very calm tempered within the house.
3. Beagle
This breed is difficult to train and cannot be left alone for long periods of time due to its dynamic nature. If bored, it will begin to look for ways to amuse itself, such as howling, digging holes in the garden, barking, etc. Although the Beagle is a loving dog towards its family, it tends to be very territorial and wary of strangers and other dogs.
This is also a kid friendly dog, and despite its territorial instinct, it is highly unlikely to harm any stranger it may encounter. They tend to like hunting and have a very strong sense of smell, which means they can find almost anything tracking it through its smell.They range from 13 to 15 inches tall and weigh from 18 to 30 pounds.
4. Pomeranian
This small breed of dogs range from 6-8 inches tall and weigh from 3 to 7 pounds; in some cases a litter can contain puppies that can weigh up to 14 pounds, but remain small in height. This breed tends to be very animated and energetic, they love children but are not the easiest to train.
They get along perfectly with other dogs, although it may believe itself to be the same size as big dogs and get into fights he is bound to lose. This is also an issue when the puppy wants to jump off of something and thinks it is bigger than it really is. They cannot be left alone for much time as they require much love and attention, and are very sensitive to heat and their fur tends to fall out and leave some bald spots when they grow old.
Be careful when you leave them outside. Because of their small size they might be perceived as prey by predators such as eagles. Their size, however, makes them perfect for apartments or small houses.
5. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a very big dog breed, they may range from 17 to 20 inches tall and weigh from 25 to 32 kg. This bear looking dog is very wary of strangers and although they may look very huggable, the amount of cuddling they can withstand is more limited than you’d think. Even so, they are very affectionate and loyal to their family.
They love to play and need constant exercise. As puppies they are very active and can become very tranquil if raised right by the owner. Their hair must be brushed at least twice a week to keep it healthy and avoid too much shedding. They are not shy but will not approach a stranger unless the owner shows confidence. This breed thoroughly enjoys cold weather and may be left alone for long periods of time.
Whichever dog you decide to get, remember that they are a responsibility and they all need love and proper training. Dogs are loyal and loving above all, they will always care and look out for you, so do the same for them and be sure you are ready for a puppy before you purchase or adopt one!