If you’re considering bringing a new dog into your life, it’s essential to choose a breed that fits your lifestyle and preferences. The right breed can make a significant difference in how smoothly the transition into dog ownership goes, especially for first-time owners. A recent survey conducted by Forbes Advisor polled 5,000 pet lovers, including 200 owners of each of the 25 most popular dog breeds, to determine which breeds are the best behaved and easiest to look after. The survey considered factors such as obedience, temperament, health, and behaviors like barking, jumping, and begging. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top breeds that owners found to be the most manageable.

1. Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever emerged as the top breed, scoring a perfect 100% in overall good behavior. This breed is renowned for its friendly disposition, intelligence, and eagerness to please. Labradors are easy to train, making them an excellent choice for families and first-time dog owners. They have a calm temperament and are less likely to develop behavioral issues such as excessive barking or destructive chewing. However, potential owners should be aware that Labradors have a tendency to whine, with a reported whine rate of 21%, and they require regular exercise to prevent obesity.

2. Rottweiler

Rottweilers ranked second with an impressive 92.49% in good behavior. Known for their loyalty and protective nature, Rottweilers are excellent guard dogs that also possess a gentle and affectionate side. They are highly trainable and, like Labradors, have a low likelihood of ingesting foreign objects. Rottweilers were noted for being the least likely to whine, with only 18% of owners reporting this behavior. While they may be prone to begging for food, Rottweilers are generally well-behaved and respond well to consistent training.

3. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a small, charming breed that ranked third in the survey with a score of 81.08%. Shih Tzus are particularly well-behaved when it comes to avoiding undesirable behaviors like jumping on people, destroying objects, and ingesting foreign items. Their gentle nature and low energy levels make them an ideal choice for apartment living and families with small children. They are also less likely to develop health issues related to their behavior, making them a low-maintenance option for dog owners.

4. Cane Corso

Cane Corsos are a powerful and intelligent breed that ranked fourth with a score of 89.07%. These dogs are known for their loyalty and protective instincts, making them excellent guard dogs. The Cane Corso excels in following commands, especially when off-leash in public, and they have a strong desire to please their owners. Despite their size and strength, they are not prone to destructive behaviors and are less likely to beg for food compared to other breeds.

6. German Shepherd

German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. They ranked sixth with a score of 74.65% in good behavior. German Shepherds are highly trainable and often excel in tasks that require obedience and discipline. They are less likely to beg for food and are among the top breeds for following commands when off-leash in public. However, German Shepherds require regular mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom, which can lead to undesirable behaviors.

5. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States, and for good reason. They ranked fifth in overall behavior with a score of 88.77%. Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly and gentle nature, making them excellent companions for families with children. They are highly trainable and excel in obedience, often performing well in tasks that require following commands. Golden Retrievers have a lower likelihood of exhibiting bad behavior, such as barking excessively or destroying objects, making them a reliable and easy-to-care-for breed.

7. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are a small and sturdy breed that ranked seventh with a score of 62.90%. These dogs are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them great companions for city dwellers and families alike. Boston Terriers are less likely to ingest foreign objects and have a lower tendency to escape, making them a safe and reliable choice for pet owners. They also have a longer lifespan, averaging between 13 to 15 years, which makes them a long-term commitment.

8. Poodle

Poodles are known for their intelligence and hypoallergenic coats, making them a popular choice for allergy sufferers. They ranked eighth in the survey with a score of 60.97%. Poodles are less likely to destroy objects and are among the top breeds for obedience and following commands. Their high level of intelligence makes them easy to train, and they often excel in dog shows and agility competitions. Poodles come in various sizes, from standard to toy, providing options for different living situations.

9. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers, often referred to as “Yorkies,” are a small and affectionate breed that ranked ninth with a score of 56.58%. Yorkies are known for their lively personality and strong attachment to their owners. They are less likely to jump on people and have a lower tendency to escape, making them a manageable breed for apartment living. Despite their small size, Yorkies have a long lifespan, averaging between 11 to 15 years.

10. American Bulldog

Rounding out the top ten is the American Bulldog, with a score of 55.32%. American Bulldogs are known for their strength, loyalty, and protective nature. They are less likely to beg for food and have a lower tendency to whine, making them a calm and composed breed. American Bulldogs are also known for their health and longevity, often living between 12 to 15 years with proper care.

Conclusion

Choosing the right dog breed can make a significant difference in your experience as a pet owner. The breeds highlighted in this survey are known for their good behavior, trainability, and compatibility with a variety of living situations. Whether you’re looking for a loyal companion, a family-friendly pet, or a low-maintenance option, there’s a breed on this list that will suit your needs. Remember, every dog is an individual, and proper training, socialization, and care are essential for raising a well-behaved and happy dog.