Labrador Retrievers: ideal for families & service dogs. Friendly, easygoing, intelligent, loyal. Great with kids & other dogs. High-energy, love water, shed a lot.
Golden Retrievers: Affectionate, good with kids/dogs. AKC rates them highly. Patient, calm, gentle. Great for multi-pet homes. Easy to train. Need daily exercise.
Poodles: adaptable, intelligent, active dogs in three sizes (Standard, Miniature, Toy), great for active households, easy to groom, good with kids.
Consider a medium-sized, hypoallergenic Goldendoodle for first-time owners. They have a playful nature and require exercise in a fenced yard.
Maltese: sociable, loving lap dogs with quick learning abilities. Prefer constant companionship, not ideal if away all day. Great for working from home.
Shih Tzus: Affectionate, low exercise needs, great for apartments. Calmer and less barky than other small breeds. High-maintenance grooming.
Yorkies: small, affectionate, low maintenance, easy to train, hypoallergenic. Great for smaller homes and singles. Watchful watchdogs with beautiful coats.
Boston Terriers: friendly, easy to care for, great with kids, minimal shedding, low drooling, nicknamed "American Gentlemen." AKC-approved.
Cavelier King Charles Spaniels: fun-loving, adaptable, good with other pets and babies, and eager to please for easy training.
Whippets: fast, agile, and affectionate dogs. Ideal for first-time owners, but training may require extra time and effort.