This guide to choosing a dog is perfect if you’ve just decided to get a pet dog. Dogs are often the favourite children's animal but different breeds of dog will vary in size, temperament, and needs. So do not underestimate the value of research to help you decide which breed is best for you.

1) Labrador

• Large dogs with plain black, yellow or chocolate coats
• Require little grooming but lots of exercise
• Active, good-tempered, and non-aggressive, so good for families with children

2) Golden retriever

• Large, docile, intelligent dogs with long, golden coats
• Need some grooming and lots of exercise
• Friendly and non-aggressive making them great for families with children

3) Scottish Terrier

• Small, short-legged dogs with long black or white fur and prominent, pointy ears
• Require a lot of grooming and moderate exercise
• Loyal and intelligent but independent; their size makes them good for smaller homes

4) Poodle

• These dogs come in three sizes (standard, miniature and toy) and a variety of colours
• Good-tempered, requiring regular grooming and moderate exercise
• Don’t shed their hair so good for owners with allergies to fur

5) Border Collie

• Medium-sized dog, generally black and white with a medium-length coat, used as a sheepdog
• Playful, loving and intelligent pets, but very active requiring a lot of exercise and training
• Need lots of space so more suited to a country setting

6) Springer Spaniel

• Medium-sized with long, brown and white or black and white patched fur
• Friendly and excitable, requiring grooming and lots of exercise – originally gun dogs
• Best suit active owners who are at home during the day

7) Boxer

• Large dogs with round faces and short ears, short fur in a variety of colours
• Lively and very loyal with a guarding instinct, wary of strangers
• Can be aggressive so not suitable for families with small children

8) German Shepherd or Alsatian

• Large dogs with short tan and black fur, pointed faces and ears
• Attentive, tireless and versatile working dogs, require some grooming and lots of exercise
• Need a lot of training and to be kept active, so not the best choice for first time dog owners

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