Watching a small, furry bundle of joy excitedly dash to you before you take it home is something all dog lovers look forward to. However, like children, puppies may be adorable, but they’re also a big responsibility. Their care and well-being are solely your responsibility. If this is your first time caring for a dog, you might want to choose a breed that is easier to care for, better behaved, and lower maintenance than other jobs. After all, while all puppies are cute in their own ways, some dogs are more beginner-friendly than others. Here are five types of puppies that are perfect for first-time dog owners.

5 Types of Puppies That Are Perfect for First-Time Dog Owners

1. Pugs

Starting small is often the way to go, especially when it comes to getting your first dog. One small dog that might be a good one to start with is the pug. Their tiny size makes them easy to pick up, they’re child-friendly, and have a wonderful disposition. They also don’t need as much exercise as many other dogs, and their short coats don’t require a lot of maintenance.

You do need to keep in mind that pugs are prone to experiencing health issues, particularly breathing issues. This is due to their trademark feature; their short nose. The short nose they possess may add to their already cute aesthetic, but it’s also one of their downsides. Their short snout can make it hard for them to breathe.

2. Whippets

Another wonderful small dog to start with is the whippet. These dogs are basically smaller versions of greyhounds. They were born and bred for racing, and you’ll notice this the minute they start sprinting. Like pugs, they are incredibly low maintenance thanks to their short fur. 

These dogs do need plenty of exercises, but once they get that, they’re quite happy to curl up and cuddle. These dogs require a little more training than other dogs for beginners, but if you have the time and patience for it, once they’re trained, they’re very obedient.

3. Maltipoos

Maltipoos are often considered to be a designer or showcase breed as they’re pretty common in commercials and advertisements. These dogs are cross-breed made from the Maltese and toy poodle. If you’re looking for a compact, playful, and loving dog, the Maltipoo is among the top five choices. Maltipoo puppies are a good fit for most kinds of households, from those with small children to those with elderly people. Furthermore, if you’re someone who loves being near your dog all the time, the Maltipoo feels the same way about you. 

They are somewhat sensitive than other breeds and prefer to be with their owner rather than in an empty home. They do tend to bark if they’re left alone for too long, if they’re bored or anxious, or if a stranger enters their territory. However, if they’re kept entertained and calm, they will rarely bark just because.

4. Labradors

Now we’re getting into the bigger dogs, which may be intimidating for new dog owners. However, there are plenty of big dogs that literally define the phrase “a gentle giant.” Labradors are not only smart and energetic but also some of the sweetest animals you will ever encounter. They’re very intelligent, so they take to training well. However, because they’re high energy, they do require regular exercise.

5. Golden Retrievers

Golden retrievers and labradors aren’t closely related, but they do have very similar temperaments, and they’re nearly the same size. The main difference between the two breeds is the golden retriever’s long coat. So, if you get one of these teddy bears, expect to be grooming them regularly. As for their energy levels, goldens do require a bit of exercise, like walking, jogging, and playing. However, they’re nowhere near as energetic as labradors.

If you’re considering getting a dog but have never had one before, you should consider one of the five mentioned above. There are other beginner-friendly dogs as well, so be sure to do your research to find one that will best suit your home and lifestyle.