Best breed for a novice dog owner

odowdchr

I remember when my grandparents wanted a dog and my uncle (vet) found fault with everything they wanted until he sorted them out with a miniature schnauzer. It "ticked all his boxes".
It was a wonderful creature, never gave them a moments trouble and i still smile now every time i see one.

http://www.petplanet.co.uk/petplanet/breeds/Schnauzer_Miniature.htm

ailuro2

I have to agree with greyhounds, wonderful dogs, very placid, and don't need as much exercise as you might think- plus they have a bit if 'size' about them- many years from now when I retire and can be home all day I would love a greyhound- they're my kind of dog. Some lurcher rescues can be brilliant too- have a look around at your local rescue centres, it would be great to find a dog that suited you that you could help in return.Don't look into their eyes, though, or you'll take them all home.:p


I'd never have a dog while I am away at work all day,though. So lucky you!

borderlakland

i agree with other answers about greyhound and lurchers(greyhounds as a rule are not good with cats) they are v loving, loyal don't need loads exercise.they eat moderatly for a large dog(they can b huge theives) v gentle and there are always lots needing new loving homes we have had both.v few health problems.greyhounds esp are v good wlking on lead(just don't expect them to sit..too long legged for that)

Raksha

If you're a novice owner, I think the breed possibly isn't as important as the breeder - a good breeder who is breeding dogs to have a long and healthy happy life with a family is what you're looking for, not a so called 'back yard breeder' whose only aim is to make as much money out of each litter for as little financial or effort as possible.

The former will have taken steps to socialise and desensitise your puppy before they even come home to you, as well as taking steps to help the puppy become house trained by ensuring they aren't learning the only place you relieve yourself is on newspaper under a roof.

moj1966

Have a look in your local libary and check out some dog books.
One breed not for a novice would be a Bulldog they are the most lovely dogs but need extra care and are very stubborn.
Read loads about different breed and she what seems the best for you. Once you have decided then you need to decide if you want a puppy or perhaps a older dog. there are many breed rescue.
Also check out different dog forum groups they are a great sorce of info and often highlight problems with certain breeds

I would not be without my Bulldog and rescure staffie cross.

broke_&_confused

borderlakland wrote: »

i agree with other answers about greyhound and lurchers(greyhounds as a rule are not good with cats) they are v loving, loyal don't need loads exercise.they eat moderatly for a large dog(they can b huge theives) v gentle and there are always lots needing new loving homes we have had both.v few health problems.greyhounds esp are v good wlking on lead(just don't expect them to sit..too long legged for that)

Spot on, almost like you've met mine!

easilyamused

My first experience of dog ownership was of a King Charles Cavalier when I was about 7 years old - at the time I thought all dogs were like that, but looking back I realise what a fabulous first dog he was - gentle and incredibly sweet-natured and always wagging his tail. Sadly, as has already been mentioned, he suffered with heart problems and we lost him when he was just 8 years old. After that we had a border collie (lovely boy he was but incredibly difficult to wear out, both mentally and physically and was always on the go!) and now as an adult I've got a rescue staffy x labrador, who's a huge cuddle monkey and full of beans (gets an hour's walk in the morning and an hour again in the evening and we often take him out running with us when we go mountain biking).

One thing I would advise though if you're unsure as to different temperaments of different dogs and want to just spend some time getting to know what they're like, is to perhaps volunteer to be a dogwalker at your local rescue centre? Before I got my dog I did this at the local Dogs Trust and got to know several of the 'inmates' really well over the months I did it. I wouldn't be surprised if you didn't click with one and end up rehoming it. I did!

tracex

I have a Bedlington Terrier and a Whippet, both of which I would recommend. Neither bark and did no damage as puppies. Sadly I've just been told my 7 year old Bedlington has a rare form of cancer and will shortly die. I don't know how my younger dog will cope without him.

merlinormartin

If you do decide to purchase a dog please take a look at the dogtrust website before you buy from a breeder
http://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/our_dogs/

you can view pictures, likes and dislikes and other information.