If you are thinking about getting a dog but not sure of what breed is right for you these tips should help make the decision-making process simpler. Something to keep in mind when adopting a dog is that it’s a lifetime commitment so only proceed if you are serious about taking good care of the dog. We have compiled the top 10 small, medium and large dog breeds in no specific order.

Top 10 dog breed facts

Size: Small

  • Yorkshire Terrier: While tiny in size they are balls of energy that will bring a smile to your face. They love to socialize and be around people, so you cannot leave them alone for extended periods of time.
  • Bulldog: A great family pet, and while some grow up to fall into the “medium” category you can get a cross-breed that is relatively small. These dogs have wonderful dispositions that children love.
  • Dachshund: These dogs are natural hunters and love to dig. They make great pets if you are staying in an apartment. This dog would be perfect for young families looking for a playful pooch.
  • Poodle: This is one of the most intelligent breeds of dogs out there. They were once the preferred choice of royalty and are easy to train. If you never owned a dog before then a Poodle would be an ideal choice.
  • Shih Tzu: A tiny dog with a tremendous amount of energy. This breed is always ready to play and given its small size would be suitable for a small house or apartment.
  • Miniature Schnauzer: This Terrier breed requires daily exercise to maintain good health. They can easily adapt to any climate and are great with children. Originally used to hunt rats they are great guard dogs.
  • Chihuahua: The perfect companion, they are small and full of energy. They are always looking to play and are very affectionate. Given their high energy levels you would need to give them lots of attention to preserve their good health.
  • Pomeranian: A great companion for older people and can be trained if you are patient with them. They are moody at times so may not be suitable for owners with small children.
  • Pug: In general, they are social dogs but prefer to lay down then exercise. While they are relatively low maintenance they can become jealous of other dogs.
  • Boston Terrier: The classic terrier, they are very playful and can be trained with minimum effort. They do not adapt well to colder climates though, so if you live in a cold location this dog may not be the best option.

Size: Medium

  • Siberian Husky: This dog loves the snow and being outside during the cold days of winter. If you love being in the cold or enjoying the outdoors then the Husky is the dog for you. These dogs have lots of energy so you will need to be proactive taking care of them.
  • Chow Chow: Originally bred in China these dogs have a very distinct face that will bring a smile to most people. They have an even temperament but do require a considerable amount of grooming.
  • Border Collie: One of the most popular breeds of dogs out there. They are beautiful, easy to train and fantastic with children. If you are thinking about getting a dog for the first time then a Border Collie may be the way to go.
  • Dalmatian: Made famous by various motion pictures these working dogs are loyal and love to play. They would be ideal for a young family that has lots of energy.
  • Staffordshire Bull Terrier: May look like a Pitbull but these dogs love being around children and playing with them. Young families looking for a suitable pet should consider getting one of these given their short hair you won’t have much fur to pick up.
  • Samoyed: Luxurious fur is something that makes this breed of dog stand out. The dog is designed for colder climates so if you have kids that love the outdoors this is the dog for them.
  • Portuguese Water Dog: Fun loving dog that really loves being in the water. Originally used for fishing expeditions, they are loyal and make a treasured family pet.
  • Catahoula Leopard Dog: State dog of Louisiana and loves nothing more than being in the water. A great addition to the family if you enjoy being outdoors especially in the water.
  • Cane Corso: Commonly referred to as the Italian Mastiff, these dogs are great protectors of children while at the same time fun to play with.
  • Bull Terrier: Very playful dog almost to a fault. Children love these dogs because they are willing to play no matter the weather.

Size: Large

  • Bernese Mountain Dog: Great all-around dog that gets along with other pets and protects children. Perfect if this is your first time getting a dog.
  • Collie: Loving dog with a natural desire to play and herd children into one area.
  • Mastiff: Ideal dog to play with children and protect the family if a threat is perceived.
  • German Shepherd: One of the smartest dogs in the list. These dogs are also great at protecting the family and love children.
  • Newfoundland: Fantastic with children but could accidently knock over small children due to the sheer size of the dog. Ideal for families that have lots of room in their home.
  • Golden Retriever: Lots of energy and great with children. Loves nothing more than being part of a family.
  • Australian Shepherd: Smaller than most of the dogs on this list if you are looking for a big dog that is not overbearing then this is a great choice.
  • Great Dane: These dogs are “happy go lucky” which may surprise some people given the large size of the dog. They are the proverbial gentle giants of the dog kingdom.
  • Labrador Retriever: Very high energy dog who loves to be part of a family. These dogs require a consistent amount of daily exercise if they are to remain healthy so make sure you can handle their level of energy.
  • Rottweiler: Used by police forces all over the world, if you want a dog to protect your family then this is the right one to get.