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Which dog breed would make the best family pet for a first time dog owner? A medium to small breed that is calm inside the house, easy to train, good temperament, friendly around strangers and well behaved around small children, a dog that doesn't shed too much etc.
I know you didn't ask this specifically but I would suggest whatever breed you get you get an adult rather than a puppy. Then you'll have a better sense of its temperament, it will already be house trained, etc. When I volunteered at intake at a large Humane Society we saw so many first timers come in and want a puppy. Puppies are REALLY cute and a lot of fun but they are a lot of work. I wouldn't advise a puppy of any breed for a first timer.
Beagles are another good breed. I’d add cocker spaniel, but they shed a lot. Breeds like poodles shed the least, but a dog that needs to be professionally clipped can add some large grooming bills.
The issue with beagles and scent hounds in general is it can be difficult to train them past their noses. Once they catch wind of something they find very interesting, it's hard to get them to pay attention to anything else -- often including your commands.
The issue with beagles and scent hounds in general is it can be difficult to train them past their noses. Once they catch wind of something they find very interesting, it's hard to get them to pay attention to anything else -- often including your commands.
Fantastic critters otherwise.
Exactly this. If you get a beagle, you should have a securely fenced yard (and the little bastards can climb too!) and really WORK that recall. They are highly food motivated, so a clicker and some high value treats can really break through their hunting fog.
Good suggestions so far. I'll also add that the right All American Mutt can make a fantastic pet, so it's worthwhile checking out the local shelters. (Some breed knowledge can be helpful with mutt selection, too, as it helps you describe to the staff at the shelter precisely what kind of temperament and grooming requirements you're looking for.)
Exactly this. If you get a beagle, you should have a securely fenced yard (and the little bastards can climb too!)
And dig. And the hole doesn't be very big for them to squirm their slender little bodies through (provided you're not over-feeding them.)
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