When adopting a dog for the very first time, there’s a lot to consider. Among the biggest considerations is which breed will be manageable when you don’t have any pooch owning experience. Fortunately, there are quite a few breeds who will make it much easier for you. Here are some of them!

Bernese Mountain Dog

Though the Bernese mountain dog is a big canine, it’s also a big softie. These dogs are known to be gentle, calm, affectionate, and good with kids and other dogs. Due to their history as a multipurpose farmhand in Switzerland, they’re also easier to train than many other breeds, and training is needed given their size. Despite their size, though, they do well in most living situations, not necessarily needing a farm. Grooming will be important, though, and they do still appreciate having a job to do!

Bichon Frise

On the smaller end of the spectrum, we have the people pleasing Bichon Frise. These happy-go-lucky pups are ready to make friends, ready to play, and perfectly happy in an apartment, cottage, or big home, as long as their people are around. They even like to spread their sunshine to kids and other pets. All dogs do require training, but these pups are an easier train than others. You will also need to stay on stop of their grooming, but they’ll smile away while you do!

Boxer

It may not always be easy living with a gooftball, but if they’re a boxer, it won’t be too bad. These silly, high-energy dogs will make you laugh, give you a cuddle, and be particularly fond of any kids in the house. They genuinely love spending time with their people, and to burn off some of that energy, that includes spending time outdoors! They’re not just needy and silly, though, they’re also smart. That makes training manageable, and it’s best to start when they’re little. Fortunately, grooming isn’t much of a necessity, given their very short fur.

Golden Retriever

Everyone’s best friend, the golden retriever is a great option for getting your dog-owning feet wet. These good-natured, gentle pups are great with kids and are even a breed that gets along well with cats. Neighbors, passersby, and anyone they encounter is just a friend they haven’t met, too. Despite their size, they’re comfortable in most living situations. However, they were bred as waterfowl dogs, so giving them plenty of exercise, the occasional swim, and something to retrieve is important.

Great Dane

They’re bigger than most people when they stand on their hind legs, but the Great Dane’s heart is just as big. They’re gentle, affectionate, patient, and protective. These people pleasers are also easily trained, which is good because they do need that training due to their bulk. Despite their size, though, they’re adaptable and can live in smaller spaces, as long as you still provide them the exercise and mental stimulation they need.

Greyhound

Due to their impressive sprints, you may think greyhounds would be high-energy and hard to keep up with. Once they get their exercise and those short bursts out, though, these dogs can be certified couch potatoes. They’re among the calmest, most relaxed, and sweetest breeds. They’re also adaptable and do just fine in homes of any size. Training is manageable for a new dog owner and grooming isn’t too extensive. The cuddling around the house may be extensive, though.

Labrador Retriever

Much like golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers would be voted friendliest in a dog yearbook. They’re good-natured, easygoing, and love meeting and charming new people. They’re happiest with their family, though, kids and other pets included. Training is a breeze with this breed and so is convincing them to go on an outdoor adventure. That’s especially true if there’s swimming involved. When you get home after your adventures, there will be plenty of canine affection waiting for you, too.

Poodle

Poodles may be thought of as fancy, but they were actually bred to be waterfowl dogs, too. This makes them quite trainable. They’re also very clever. Their smarts and skills aren’t all they offer, though. They’re also playful, friendly, happy, and good with cats and kids. The only things to keep in mind are that they do need plenty of mental and physical stimulation and some grooming.

Shih Tzu

When a dog was bred specifically to be a companion, they’re apt to be a good snuggler, a faithful friend, and an expert relaxer. Shih tzus have been companions for centuries, so this definitely applies to them. They’re happy in small spaces, don’t need too much exercise, and are good with other dogs and kids. Training is manageable, especially since it’s another reason to be with you, which is their favorite thing, after all. They do have some grooming needs, though.

Yorkshire Terrier

Another smaller companion that’s a good starter dog is the Yorkshire terrier. Though they were actually bred to hunt rats and are quite feisty as a result, they’re also incredibly loyal and affectionate. Training can only present a challenge due to their occasional stubbornness, but the laughter you’ll get from their mischievous nature will make up for it. If you have kids, they’ll be best buds, and they’re pretty adaptable to most situations.