Types of Dogs
There are so many questions to ask yourself before you proceed with getting a dog, but perhaps one of the most important is: Do you have enough time to dedicate to a dog’s needs? This includes training, exercising and grooming, as well as time spent getting to know them and loving them.
Dogs want to be with us as much as possible so, if you work, ask yourself, can you give your dog all the attention it needs to settle into your home or will you need to arrange for a dog walker or sitter to look after them for a few hours a day?
Even if you’re a remote worker you will still need to spend a proportion of your day walking, feeding and training your dog.
You also need to consider the financial implications. . .
There is obviously the initial purchase price or adoption fee, but then there is the cost of spaying or neutering, veterinary check-ups, vaccinations as well as ongoing costs such as food, grooming, vet visits, training, toys, emergency medical expenses and pet insurance.
The size of the dog you choose is also vitally important.
Small Dog Breeds
Generally speaking, small dogs are considered to be around 8-12 inches tall and weigh between 5 and 20 pounds.
They are perfect for those who live in an apartment or smaller home where space is limited.
While they do need regular exercise, small dogs often require less intense activity than larger breeds. They can often get sufficient exercise indoors, which is beneficial in bad weather or for anyone with mobility constraints.
Affectionate and loyal, small dogs form strong bonds with their families.
They also tend to be cheaper to look after – they eat less, which can reduce food expenses, and veterinary services are often more affordable due to medication dosage sizes.
January 2025
Medium Dog Breeds
Medium dog breeds are considered to be between 12-24 inches in height and weigh between 20 and 50 pounds. They tend to have fewer health and behavioral problems than small breeds, however, they can require more training.
The breeds within this group are varied – some are athletic and require plenty of exercise, while others are more laid back.
Medium-sized dogs tend to be more popular with families, particularly those with young children, as children are often less intimidated by medium dog breeds than big dog breeds.
January 2025
Large Breed Dogs
Dogs that weigh 50 pounds or more are considered to be a large breed.
Whether it’s due to their good nature and eagerness to please, many large breed dogs are easier to train than smaller breeds.
They are suitable for families who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, running and swimming because larger breeds typically have greater stamina for long walks, adventures and vigorous play.
Due to their strength and size, large breed dogs excel in various roles such as search and rescue, police work and therapy. They are also suitable for guiding the visually impaired and assisting those with mobility issues.
Big breed dogs are good with children – often known for being gentle giants with a stable and calm demeanor. However, they do need more space to move around, plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy, and their size means higher food consumption and potentially more costly medical expenses.
January 2025
Smartest Dog Breeds
The intelligence of a dog breed can be measured by various factors, including trainability, problem-solving ability, obedience, and adaptability. The following breeds are celebrated for their high intelligence and versatility, making them excellent choices for various roles, from family pets to working dogs.
Border Collie: Border Collies are renowned for their exceptional problem-solving skills, agility, and trainability. They excel in obedience and agility competitions and are often used in herding due to their quick thinking and ability to follow complex commands.
Poodle: Poodles are highly trainable and excel in various dog sports, obedience, and even hunting. Their intelligence makes them quick learners, capable of mastering complex tasks and commands.
German Shepherd: German Shepherds are widely used in police and military roles due to their intelligence, trainability, and ability to perform complex tasks under pressure. They are also excellent in obedience training and protection work.
Doberman Pinscher: Dobermans are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and trainability. They are often used in security and protection roles and excel in obedience training due to their quick learning abilities and strong work ethic.
Labrador Retriever: Labradors are versatile and excel in various roles, including search and rescue, guide dogs, and therapy work. Their intelligence, combined with their friendly and eager-to-please nature, makes them highly trainable.
Rottweiler: Rottweilers are known for their intelligence and versatility in various roles, including police work, search and rescue, and obedience competitions. Their ability to learn and perform complex tasks is highly valued.
Dogs That Don’t Shed
If you’re particularly house proud or suffer from allergies, you may be keen on finding a dog that does not shed its coat. Some of the most popular breeds of dogs that don’t shed include:
Bichon Frise: Bichons have a curly, double coat that catches shedding hair, reducing the amount that falls out.
Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard, and Giant): Schnauzers have a wiry outer coat that sheds minimally and requires regular grooming to maintain.
Maltese: Maltese dogs have a silky, long coat that sheds very little and is similar to human hair.
Cairn Terrier: Cairn Terriers have a wiry, weather-resistant coat that sheds minimally and requires regular grooming.
Havanese: Havanese have a silky, long coat that sheds minimally and is known for being hypoallergenic.
