Finding the right dog breed for you
There are hundreds of different breeds of dogs. Each breed has its own particular behaviour and knowing about this will help you choose a dog that's right for you.
Examples of dog breed behaviour
Find examples of dog breed behaviour below to help you choose a dog that's right for you. Note that all dogs are individuals and there's no guarantee that a dog will behave like its breed.
| Dog breed behaviour | Choose the behaviour that's right for you |
|---|---|
| Adapts to living in a flat or apartment | Some breeds are quiet and calm, while others with high-energy will not suit living in a small space. |
| Affectionate with family | Some breeds bond closely with the family while others are independent and aloof. |
| Child-friendly | Some breeds are gentle with children and cope well with lots of hugs while other breeds are quite snappy and aren’t child (or family) friendly. |
| Dog-friendly | Some breeds may try to attack or dominate other breeds, while others prefer to play. |
| Energy levels | Some breeds have lots of energy and need lots of exercise and mental stimulation - other breeds will prefer to doze for most of the day. |
| Exercise needs | Some breeds will be happy with a slow stroll, while others prefer more energetic exercise. |
| Prey drive | Some breeds have an inborn need to chase and sometimes kill other animals - anything speeding by, for example cats, squirrels and even cars, can trigger that instinct. |
Other characteristics to think about
Consider the following points, before you get a dog:
| Dog characteristics | More dog characteristics |
|---|---|
| amount of shedding/ casting of its hair | potential for playfulness |
| drooling potential | potential for weight gain |
| easy to groom | potential to wander |
| easy to train | sensitivity level |
| friendly towards strangers | size |
| general health | tendency to bark or howl |
| good for novice owners | tolerates being alone |
| intelligence | tolerates cold weather |
| intensity | tolerates cold weather |
| potential for mouthiness (tendency to nip, chew and bite at play) |