Dog Breeds: Which Dog Best Fits Your Lifestyle?

So you decided that you want to get a dog, and you have that perfect dog already pictured in your mind.  Yes, you two look great together, but how do you know if that breed of dog is right for you?

For example, your kids may want a Dalmatian after seeing them in a movie, but are you ready to provide the vigorous daily exercise that this breed requires?  Or maybe you were impressed with the smarts of the German Shepherd, but are you aware that they shed all year long?  If you are not okay with a seemingly endless sprinkling of dog hair on your clothes and furniture, then this brainy breed might not be for you.

To help you get started on finding the right breed, below are three of the top breeds for each category listed.

Breeds That Are Excellent With Children

If your family has kids, or you are planning for kids, you will want to choose a dog that is child-friendly.  These breeds are excellent with children;

1. Labrador Retriever
2. Collie
3. Beagle

Breeds That Require Little Or (Almost) No Grooming

Every dog needs their coat brushed, their nails clipped, their teeth cleaned, and a bath every now and then.  Other than that, here are three breeds that require little maintenance of their coats.

1. Chihuahua
2. Bull Terrier
3. Beagle

Lap Dogs

If you want a small dog that will curl up on your lap, you may want to consider one of these.

1. Shih Tzu
2. Pomeranian
3. English Toy Spaniel

High Energy Breeds

If you live a physically active lifestyle and you want your canine companion to join you on your jogs and hikes, then these dogs will keep up with you.

1. Dalmatian
2. Border Collie
3. Siberian Husky

Most Obedient Breeds

These are smart dogs that will obey you and not get easily distracted.

1. Border Collie
2. Poodle
3. Golden Retriever