Popular Types of Dogs

The most popular types of dogs have earned widespread love because of their intelligence, friendliness and affectionate natures. While some may seek dogs to do a specific job, such as herding or guarding, most people want a dog for companionship.

Choosing a dog depends on your family. Different dogs have different needs for grooming, exercise and attention. If you can't meet the dog's needs, it's likely to become high strung, destructive or even aggressive. Before you commit to owning a dog, think about your lifestyle, your resources and who will be responsible for the dog's care and exercise.

Large Dog Types
Most large dogs are working breeds. This includes the Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever and Collie. Since they were bred to hunt or herd, these dogs have a tremendous amount of energy and a need for exercise. They need regular training or a job to do, or they will get bored and chew furniture, blankets, pillows and anything else they can get their teeth on.

If you have an active breed, you have to give the dog something to do everyday. You also have to walk the dog for at least a mile, or have at least a fenced in acre so that the dog can run. If you cannot walk the dog, but have a larger yard, you should play catch or other games with the dog so it gets plenty of exercise.

Large breeds can be difficult to crate train or keep in a small home. They tend to live for 8 to 10 years and often suffer from hip, elbow and joint problems as they age.

Small Dog Types
If you are not an active person, you may want to consider a smaller dog, such as a Pomeranian, Chihuahua, Poodle, Shih Tzu, Portuguese Water Dog or Jack Russell Terrier. These make good lap dogs and do not require as much exercise, but they do require regular walking or other interaction.

Small dogs take well to crate training and can be quite happy in a small home or an apartment. Their exercise needs vary depending on the breed; although small, most terriers are working dogs that need a lot of exercise. Agility training is a great way to burn their seemingly endless energy.

One important thing to remember about small dogs is that they need lots of time with their owners. Without at least two hours of interaction a day, these dogs will become high strung. They will bark at everything and bite at people, including their owners. Small dogs can be very aggressive when they're cornered or don't want to play, so they're not the right choice if you have small children.

Smaller breeds tend to live longer than large breeds, with average lifespans of 10 to 12 years.

Other Considerations
Breeds that are popular with people are not necessarily the best breed for your situation. If you get a breed that does not match your lifestyle and ability to provide proper care, you can end up with a dog that destroys your home.

Consider grooming and food. Large dogs eat more. If you cannot afford to feed a large dog, consider getting a small dog or a different type of pet. Dogs need a healthy diet that should not consist of the cheapest dog food you can find. Usually, the bulk of ingredients in cheap dog food is corn or wheat, neither of which a carnivore normally eats.

If you get a dog with long hair or a double coat, you must have the time to groom the dog. Depending on the amount of hair shed and the time of year, you may have to groom the dog every day. Many dogs have a double coat; they have the hair you see plus a fuzzy coat underneath the outer coat. These dogs shed constantly, keeping the vacuum cleaner busy. You will also need to be able to clips the dog's nails or have the finances to take it to a groomer or the vet to have its nails clipped.

The final consideration is veterinary bills. Dogs need regular shots and annual examinations. They should also be spayed or neutered. Veterinary bills can quickly escalate into the thousands, particularly if your dog develops joint problems or a chronic illness such as diabetes. Be sure that you're financially able to give your dog the care it needs for a long and healthy life.