Are you a first-time dog owner? Our best breeds for your new pup
If you're a first-time dog owner, how do you choose the best pup for you? Here's our top dog breeds for an easy pet experience.
Bringing a new pet into the family can be a daunting task for anyone: especially when it's your very first. Many dog breeds can be tricky to tame, whilst others are a walkies in the park. So how do you know which breed can be right for you? From Poodles, to Boxers, to Labradors, we'll help you find your perfect waggy match.
Here's our first paw-fect pooch, a breed that's trainable, fun-loving, and perfect for families.
Labrador Retriever
Labradors are a classic breed for a reason: they're easy to care for and adore some puppy love. If you have a big heart and an active family, Labradors can be a perfect choice as they are a very loveable breed, and enjoy nothing more than a run around the park with their favourite human. They're also famed for being an easy breed for large families with children, due to their sociable nature.
Labradors are also very keen when it comes to training. They love to learn new tricks and express themselves, but may need to be told twice when learning more mundane commands. Our Chicken Happy Puppy Meal is our favourite choice for Labrador puppies, who need flavour and fuel for all that energy and love. However, if you're still struggling with your new puppy's attitude even after a delicious dinner, check out our top tips for dealing with puppy panic.
Up for a breed that is a little more glamorous, but still easy to train? Don't fret, here's the dog for you.
Poodle
From toy, to miniature, to standard breeds, Poodles are more than just good looking. They're highly intelligent and energetic dogs, that make paw-some first-time companions. These pups also typically behave well around children, and love playtime, so be prepared to take them for lots of long walkies and give them lots of cuddles in between. Their gorgeous coats do also come with a price, as they will need to be regularly groomed and taken care of, for their hair to stay manageable and luscious.
Poodles are also fantastic dogs for first-time trainers, due to to their high intelligence. This means they're fab at listening, and pick up commands easily, so you won't be struggling with basic training. Their energetic nature also means they love to learn and explore, so you may be dancing and shaking paws before you know it. Our Duck Terrine is developed especially for the refined Poodle palate, so we recommend this tasty dish for a smart pooch.
Perhaps the high grooming needs aren't for you, so if you're looking for a dog with an simple look and a loyal bond, this next breed could be your perfect match.
Boxer
Boxer dogs are fiercely loyal companions, who make fantastic family pets due to their loving and protective natures. Despite their droopy faces, these dogs are actually some of the happiest around, and love lots of exercise and cuddles from their favourite humans. Boxer's are great for families with younger children, as they can be a great breed for children to learn and grow alongside. Their short and simple coats also make them a breeze to care for, as they always look their best without the need for regular grooming.
Once again, this is an easily trainable breed due to their loyal nature and willingness to listen and learn. They may be less likely to learn the complex tricks than other breeds, but are perfect if a strong companion is preferred over learning a barrel roll. Nothing suits a Boxer better than our Chicken Dinner meal, as the hearty and delicious flavours pair great with your best friend.
These breeds so far have been ideal for first-time owners with energy to spare, but if you're looking for a chiller breed, here's what we suggest.
Maltese
These luxurious little dogs can seem high maintenance, but are in fact very easy breeds to care of for first-timers. Having less energy than the aforementioned breeds, they make great companions for older owners, owners with disabilities, or anyone who wants a relaxing pet experience. They are also very loving and cuddly dogs, so will be more than happy to curl up on your lap after a long day. Much like the Poodle, they have paw-fectly stylish curls and rock a stunning look, however, this does require regular trips to the groomers to manage all that fluff. Good looks require good care, so if you don't mind keeping their coats trimmed, this could be the dog breed for you.
The ease of the Maltese continues to training, as they are keen to listen to their companions. Due to their relaxed nature, they are less likely than other breeds to learn the more energetic tricks. As long as you're not hoping to compete in the obstacle course at Crufts however, this shouldn't be an issue. An easy way to help their coats shine and keep tummies happy is to serve up our Lamb Kebab meal, as it's full of superfoods and flavour for a marvellous Maltese.
After all these fabulous dog breeds, we've got an all round beloved pup breed to end our list with a bang. Can you guess what it is?
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are common dogs for anyone looking for their first pooch, due to their easy-going and fun-loving personalities. Being gentle giants, these breeds are not only brilliant for families with children, but for other pets in the household as well. Golden Retrievers can be a perfect choice when looking for a companion for your cat, as they'll be patient and soft (though we can't say the same for your kitty). Just remember to tame their flowing locks with regular grooming, to keep them from turning into Rapunzel and overheating in the summer.
If you want an easily trainable breed, then look no further. These dogs love to listen and spend time with their owners, making them perfect first-time dogs for those who want to focus more on puppy cuddles and playtime, than learning to sit and stay. Our Beef Stew is the perfect companion to any fun-loving pup, and makes a tasty treat after a long day of play.
If you want to find the paw-fect meal for your pooches personality, check out our full range of dog food to find tail wagging goodness, for dogs of every shape and size. From grain-free and chicken-free recipes, to hearty classics, we guarantee your pooch will be feeling paw-some and eating like royalty.
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