You're looking to add a furry friend to your family, but which dog breed is right for you? Credit: Getty Images and Bruce Gilbert
Find out which dog breed is right for you.
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Bunny and Honney, 16-month-old Yorkshire terriers, wait their turns to compete in the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America 2004 New York Specialty Show, Sunday, Feb. 13, 2004, in Manhattan. Credit: AP / Mary Altaffer
The Yorkshire terrier is known for its energetic spunk, despite their size. Some may find that the Yorkie is completely unaware that it is not a large breed. They are intelligent, adventurous, but their inquisitive nature may have them poking their noses where they don’t belong. Yorkies can work well with families who are looking for a playful pup, but don’t have the space to accommodate a large dog.
boxer Credit: News 12 Interactive: Sandrina Rodrigues
Known for their devotion to their owners, boxers are also playful, inquisitive and outgoing. A boxer makes a good addition to an active family that has the time and space to accommodate a large breed. While they can sometimes be stubborn, they’re surprisingly sensitive dogs that listen to commands well.
Bichon Frise. Credit: Michelle Brosdal and Carol Konik
This perky and playful house dog will get along well with strangers and children. They appreciate affection and will enjoy spending the day cuddled up beside you. While they are a hypoallergenic breed, their hair still requires a lot of maintenance.
No. 3: Golden Retriever. 2012 ranking, No. 3; 2003, No. 2. Credit: Getty Images / Emmanuel Dunand
Golden retrievers enjoy spending the afternoon outdoors, wandering through nearby ponds and forests. They’re devoted and obedient, making them a good choice for families. They won’t be happy without a decent amount of space to play, but will be content after a good came of catch, or a long walk.
shih tzu Credit: Animal Planet
The loving, wide-eyed shih tzu is known for being a loyal companion. Though they can have stubborn streaks, they have low exercise needs and won’t mind sleeping the day away away while you’re stuck at work. They’ll adapt well to other pets and are calm near children. If allergies have previously kept you from adopting a pet, the hypoallergenic shih tzu is the perfect choice.
Beagle Credit: Bruce Gilbert
The perfect addition to a growing family is a canine companion. The beagle loves to play outdoors, but, given exercise, can be a calm house pet. Their gentle, loving nature makes them great with children. They’re easy to train and have low grooming needs, so you won’t have to add a trip to the pet salon to your busy schedule.
Border Collie Credit: Tara Conry
Border collies are known to be bundles of energy and enjoy open space to play. If given a sufficient amount of exercise they can be loyal home companions. They may not blend well with other dogs, however, due to their natural instinct to chase other animals.
Siberian husky. Credit: AP / Pat Eaton-Robb
The Siberian husky is a nature-loving breed that will match well with an adventure-seeking human companion. As an energetic breed, they love to roam, explore and play. You won’t have to worry about introducing a husky to other dogs, as they are extremely social and enjoy canine company.
Mike Dunnington, of Kennewick, Wash., holds his Chihuahua's Justice, left and Fingers, backstage after competition in the 130th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, Monday, Feb. 13, 2006, in Madison Square Garden. Credit: AP / Mary Altaffer
If you’re looking for a teeny pup with lots of spunk, the Chihuahua is your best bet. These compact pups, weighing less than 6 pounds, have a terrier-like attitude and show extreme devotion to a single person. While Chihuahua’s are known for their bold nature, some are actually more timid than you’d expect.
Peak, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (in the Agility class), owned by Kristine Schmidt of Shirley, poses for a photo on Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2015, during a preview of the Westminster Kennel Club 139th Annual Dog Show in Manhattan. Rogers and her sisters, Emma and Faith, will show Joy and two other dogs. The show will be held Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 16-17, in Manhattan. Credit: Craig Ruttle
Due to their affectionate and quiet nature, you’ll be able to introduce your Cavalier King Charles spaniel pup to other dogs, strangers and children without trouble. While they make great house pets, the Cavalier loves to explore outside when given the opportunity.