DANIELLE ELTON
A high-maintenance dog when it comes to grooming, cocker spaniels need regular trips to the groomers plus regular checking of their ears they’re prone to ear infections. But aside from that, they’re full of energy, friendly and tend to respond well to training.
Cocker spaniel
Lively little things with lots of affection for their human family, but can be aggressive towards other dogs, something to consider if you already have pets. Jack Russells are also intelligent and can become bored easily making them more suited to experienced dog owners with time to train them.
A gentle dog with a sensitive nature, a golden retriever would suit a loving family who enjoy the outdoors.
They’re good with other animals due to their affectionate personality but they need a lot of exercise. Owners will need to dog-proof their homes as anything they can get their paws on goes in their mouths!
Jack Russell
Instantly recognisable by their gorgeous coat, shih tzus are affectionate, playful and require little exercise. Despite their small size, they’re a confident breed who love company and can get along fantastically with other pets. While they may be low maintenance in the exercise department, they more than make up for it
when it comes to
Shih tzu
Golden retriever
A small dog with a big personality, chihuahuas tend to form strong bonds, but can be snappy with strangers or those they’re not familiar with so aren’t ideal for big families. If you’re a first-time owner looking for a loving companion, a chihuahua will be just that. They require very little exercise or grooming, making them a low-maintenance pet dog. grooming, with regular trips to the groomers required to keep their coat looking beautiful.
Ideal for a family full of energy who want the same from their dog. But, although they might fit in well with the family, any other dog could be a problem. Their dogfighting reputation might have given these dogs a bad name but they can be affectionate animals who love nothing more than lots of cuddles. For owners who can’t always be at home, this breed might not be for you.
Staffordshire bull terrier
Easy-going and affectionate, labradors are playful dogs and ideal for those with other pets. They need plenty of walking and would suit someone who has a garden for them to run around in. Owners should also be mindful of their weight and diet, with labradors prone to gaining a few extra pounds.
A cross between a cocker spaniel and a poodle, this curly-haired breed is good for those with allergies. They make ideal pets for firsttime owners being fairly easy to train and not needing as much exercise as some breeds. But being fun-loving and affectionate little dogs, they don’t like being left alone for long.
Cockapoo
Working dogs bred for herding sheep, this breed can form strong bonds with their owners. Be wary around children though, border collies have bundles of energy and without enough exercise and stimulation, they can develop behaviour problems and can become aggressive. They need at least two hours of exercise a day. Can you commit to that?