Best Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners
For first-time dog owners, choosing a breed with a stable temperament and good trainability can make life much easier. This is why many newcomers often ask the same question: "Which dogs are less likely to have behavioral issues?"
In reality, every dog is unique, but some breeds are known for being gentler, more obedient, and easier to handle. These dogs tend to adapt better to training and family life, making them great companions for beginners.
Recommended Beginner-Friendly Breeds
- Golden Retriever – Gentle, friendly, and exceptionally patient with children.
- Labrador Retriever – Intelligent and eager to please, ideal for active families.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – Affectionate and compact, perfect for apartment living.
- Poodle – Smart, trainable, and hypoallergenic, available in multiple sizes.
- Shih Tzu – Calm and lovable, great for smaller homes or quieter lifestyles.
Starting your journey as a dog owner is both exciting and rewarding. When you choose a well-suited, easygoing breed, you set yourself up for a happier relationship and fewer frustrations. Remember: consistent training, love, and patience matter far more than the breed itself.
British senior dog trainer Will Atherton shared that, based on his professional experience, there are three dog breeds that "hardly ever need special behavioral correction." He even exaggeratedly described one of them as "the best dog in the world," which unexpectedly sparked heated discussions online.
1. Labrador Retrievers: The Best Dogs in the World
According to Atherton, Labrador Retrievers can be described as "the best dogs in the world." In his eyes, their most common challenge is their tendency to pull on the leash during walks, often straining forward with excitement.
This behavior, Atherton explains, comes from their incredibly friendly disposition. Labradors are so enthusiastic about greeting every person and dog they see that they can't help but rush forward to say hello and play together.
However, Atherton confidently adds that this issue is actually quite easy to correct. With the right training methods and consistent practice, Labradors can quickly learn to walk calmly by your side.
2. English Mastiff: The Gentle Giant
The second breed to make the list is the English Mastiff. According to expert Atherton, these dogs are known for their calm and easygoing nature. They are excellent family companions who rarely display aggressive or confrontational behavior.
As one of the largest dog breeds in existence, the English Mastiff's average weight surpasses that of a wild wolf by about 50 kilograms. Despite their imposing size and presence, these dogs are gentle at heart — quiet, affectionate, and often described as loving "big babies."
3. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The last breed to make the list is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. According to Atherton, this charming little dog is one of the finest small breeds in the world.
Gentle and affectionate by nature, Cavaliers are known for their loving temperament and ability to form strong emotional bonds with their owners. Their calm and friendly demeanor makes them ideal companions for families, singles, and seniors alike.
Debate Over the "Most Well-Behaved Dog Breeds" List
A recently released list of the "most well-behaved dog breeds" has sparked lively discussion among pet owners and professionals alike. While some agree with the rankings, others have pointed out that breed behavior can vary widely depending on individual temperament and upbringing.
A veterinary assistant commented that Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are indeed gentle and obedient dogs, but they are also prone to hereditary heart conditions—something potential owners should consider before adopting. Meanwhile, a dog walker challenged the list's validity, sharing experiences with Labradors that were "extremely unruly," suggesting that labeling any breed as universally well-behaved might be overly simplistic.
It seems that while a dog's breed can influence its temperament, factors such as environment, training, and socialization play an equally crucial role in shaping a dog's behavior.
