What dog should I get? 6 questions to find the right breed for you

Choosing a dog is one of the biggest decisions you can make for a pet. A good match means a happy dog and a happy household for years. A poor match is one of the reasons dogs end up in rescue centres. Work through these six questions honestly, then compare breeds that fit.

1. What is your home like?

Think about the space inside, whether you have a secure garden, and how close you are to good places to walk. Large, energetic breeds usually cope best with more space and easy access to open ground. Many smaller or calmer dogs adapt well to flats, as long as they get daily walks and toilet breaks. Check your tenancy or lease allows dogs before you start looking.

2. How much time do you have?

Dogs are social animals and need company. PDSA advises that a dog shouldn't be left alone for more than four hours. If you work long hours away from home, plan for a dog walker, day care or a family member to help, or consider whether now is the right time for a dog.

Puppies need even more time. They need house training, socialisation and short, frequent toilet trips.

3. How active are you?

Be honest about your normal routine, not your ideal one. If you love long walks and being outdoors, an active working or gundog breed, such as a Border Collie or Labrador, may suit you. If you prefer shorter walks and time at home, a calmer or smaller breed with lower exercise needs, such as a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (Cavaliers are prone to inherited heart and neurological conditions, so check the parents' health tests) or a Whippet (which loves a sprint but also a long snooze), may be better.

4. How experienced are you with dogs?

Some breeds are generally easier for first-time owners, while others need experienced handling and lots of training. Very intelligent working breeds can be a challenge for beginners because they need so much to do. Powerful guarding breeds need confident, consistent training and socialisation.

5. How much grooming can you manage?

Coat care varies hugely. Short-coated breeds need little more than a weekly brush. Long, curly or wiry coats can need daily brushing and professional grooming every few weeks. "Low-shedding" coats, like the Bichon Frise's, still need regular grooming to prevent painful matting, and grooming costs add up.

6. Who else lives with you?

If you have young children, look for a breed known to be tolerant and gentle, and always supervise children with dogs. If you have cats or small pets, avoid breeds with a strong instinct to chase, or choose an adult dog that a rescue centre knows is good with them. Think about visitors, older relatives and anyone with allergies too.

Beware of "low-maintenance" breeds

Some breeds are promoted as easy, low-maintenance pets, especially flat-faced breeds such as French Bulldogs and Pugs. The UK Brachycephalic Working Group, which includes vets, welfare charities and the Kennel Club, urges anyone considering a flat-faced dog to "stop and think". These breeds are prone to breathing difficulties, skin fold infections, eye disease and spinal problems, which can mean significant vet bills. If you are drawn to these breeds, speak to your vet before you decide.

Breed is only part of the picture

A large 2022 study found that breed explains only about 9% of the variation in individual dogs' behaviour. Breed can tell you about likely energy levels, size and coat, but each dog is an individual. Where you can, meet the puppy's parents or spend time with an adult dog before deciding.

Where to get your dog

PDSA recommends considering adoption first. Rescue centres try hard to match dogs with the right homes and often offer support afterwards. If you buy a puppy, choose a responsible breeder, see the puppy with its mother, and check the parents have had the right health tests.

In England, puppies under six months can only be sold by the person who bred them, so avoid third-party sellers. Licensed breeders must show their council licence number; ask to see it.