A vet has shared the five dog breeds he considers to be ideal for first time owners.
Welcoming a dog into your home is a major decision and commitment - they require constant care and attention, they need regular health check-ups at the vets, and they need to be adequately exercised and stimulated each day.
Dogs are known and loved for their friendliness, loyalty and the boundless supply of love they give their owners, earning them the just reputation of “man’s best friend”. It’s no surprise millions of people choose to open their home to a dog.
If you’re a first time owner, deciding on the ideal breed to suit your lifestyle and needs can feel like something of a minefield. Many prospective pet owners turn to social media looking for guidance, where a wide range of novices and professionals alike are keen to share their expert advice.
One popular pro is Dr Amir Anwary, a veterinarian who’s amassed hundreds of thousands of likes on TikTok thanks to his regular video uploads where he shares his experience and insight to the masses.
In a recent video posted on the hit video sharing platform, the vet shared his opinion on the five breeds most suited for first time owners.
In the caption accompanying the footage, the vet penned: “What would you want as a first time owner? A dog that is trainable, easy going. Good temperament, doesn't require too much exercise. Try one of these breeds!”
As usual, it's important to do your own research before committing to any dog breed, as this is for informational purposes based on opinion only.
In the number one spot, the vet placed the golden retriever. The breed is famous for their gentle, affable nature and intelligence, as well as their patience.
In previous videos, Dr Anwary shared the potential “downsides” of getting a golden retriever, highlighting how their friendliness makes them unsuitable for guard dog roles, and they’re prone to excess shedding but these issues seem relatively minor compared to the benefits of the breed.
They’re a working dog, but make wonderful family pets thanks to their trustworthiness and confidence. They’re also affectionate and reliable.
In second place is the whippet. A relatively small breed, they’re famously fast though very content to live among families in homes of all sizes.
With a lifespan of over 12 years, they’re ideal for those keen to make the most out of having a dog in their lives.
The Kennel Club states: “As a family companion, the Whippet is gentle and affectionate and enjoys the comforts of domestic life.”
In third place, Dr Anwary recommended the labrador. This friendly, gentle - though ferociously greedy - breed is a big hit among families thanks to their loveable nature, as well as their loyalty and affection.
The Kennel Club highlights their popularity: “The Labrador is the most popular of all pedigree breeds and his popularity comes from his versatility as family companion, service dog, guide dog as well as a working gundog.”
These small, wiry dogs make great pets due to their intelligence, as well as their energetic nature. They’re intelligent and adaptable, though they do require around an hour’s exercise per day.
They’re known for their desire to please their owners, which makes them trainable.
The Kennel Club explains they were originally “developed as a vermin killer” but went on to prove their versatility “by herding livestock”, as well as being “used for pulling small carts”.
Concluding his top five is the Staffordshire Bull terrier. This “highly intelligent” breed is known for being sweet-natured and affectionate, particularly with children.
A relatively small breed, they come in a variety of coat colours and have a stocky build, with wide mouths that give them the appearance of grinning.
The Kennel Club states: “Despite its rough and ready beginnings, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is known as a wonderful family pet. Their intelligence and affinity with children are noted in the breed standard.”
