Which dog breed suits me?

You are considering getting a dog but don’t know which breed? The decision is more complex than you think. A Border Collie in a city apartment without enough exercise will be unhappy – just like you as a couch potato with a Jack Russell Terrier.

There are over 344 recognised dog breeds worldwide. Most online tests reduce the selection to superficial questions. Yet, very concrete factors determine success or frustration for the next 10–15 years.

How much time do you have daily for your dog?

Less than two hours a day makes it difficult. This includes walks, feeding, grooming and enrichment. A Labrador needs at least 90 minutes of exercise plus 30 minutes of mental work. A Pug gets by with 60 minutes but requires more grooming.

Working people should calculate honestly: 30 minutes in the morning, one hour at midday (or a dog sitter), another hour in the evening. Plus weekend time for intensive enrichment.

What living situation does your home offer?

The size of the apartment alone is not decisive. A relaxed Bernese Mountain Dog lives comfortably in 60 square metres. A hyperactive Jack Russell needs more space for its energy despite its small size.

More important is access to the outdoors. Dogs that cannot be house-trained need quick exits. A garden never replaces a walk but offers additional relaxation.

Rental properties often have house rules. Bouncy breeds like Spitz or Beagle can lead to neighbour disputes.

Do you already have experience with dog training?

First-time dog owners are well advised to choose cooperative breeds. A Bichon Frisé forgives training mistakes, a Husky exploits them. Intelligent does not automatically mean easy – Border Collies get bored without tasks and develop quirks.

Breeds suitable for beginners: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Havanese, Poodle (all sizes). They are people-oriented and forgive inconsistency.

For advanced owners: Doberman, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Cattle Dog. They require clear leadership and consistent training.

How important is a family-friendly character to you?

Child-friendliness is breed-typical but not guaranteed. Golden Retrievers are considered patient – yet there are individual differences. More important is socialisation during puppyhood.

Small children and very small dogs (under 5 kg) rarely go together well. Chihuahuas or Yorkshire Terriers can be injured by careless handling.

Herding dogs like Australian Shepherds sometimes “herd” children by nipping at their heels. This is instinct, not malice – but it must be trained out.

What costs can you manage long-term?

A dog costs 20,000–30,000 euros over its lifetime. Large breeds eat more, small ones need more expensive special food. Purebred dogs from breeding for harmful traits (Pug, French Bulldog) incur high vet costs.

Monthly basic costs: 80–150 euros for food, insurance and routine care. Plus irregular expenses for the vet, equipment and holiday care.

Surgery insurance costs 15–40 euros a month but can cover costs of 5,000 euros and more.

How do you find reputable breeders or animal shelters?

Purebred dogs: Only visit VDH breeders or comparable associations. Reputable breeders show both parent animals, have health certificates and only release puppies at 8+ weeks of age.

Animal shelters often offer mixed-breed dogs with a known character. The staff knows the dogs and can provide honest information about quirks and needs.

Suspicious signs include: multiple litters at the same time, handovers at rest areas, missing papers, puppies under 8 weeks old.

Which breed suits sports enthusiasts?

For joggers and hikers: Rhodesian Ridgeback, Weimaraner, Vizsla. They have stamina and enjoy running longer distances.

For dog sports: Border Collie, Australian Shepherd, Belgian Shepherd. They learn quickly and enjoy working together with humans.

Which breed requires little care?

Short-haired breeds such as Labrador, Beagle or Dalmatian do shed, but only require occasional brushing.

Poodles and other curly-coated dogs must be clipped every 6–8 weeks, but hardly shed in return.

Are there breeds for allergy sufferers?

“Hypoallergenic” dogs do not exist. Some people react less to certain breeds: Poodle, Water Dog, Basenji. An allergy test before getting a dog is advisable.

What should be considered regarding unethical breeding practices?

Breeds with breathing problems (Pug, Bulldog) require air-conditioned accommodation and cannot tolerate heat. Veterinary costs are significantly higher.

Anyone who takes animal welfare seriously should check before buying whether the breeding direction is compatible with healthy living conditions for the dog.