14 Dogs That Are Perfect for First-Time Pet Parents

Being a pet parent is a wonderful experience. You get to welcome a furry friend into your life who you can care for and who will love you unconditionally. But being a first-time dog owner can be challenging, and it’s hard to know where to begin when looking for your new special someone. “The first thing you should you think about before adopting a dog is your lifestyle,” Nicole Ellis, professional dog trainer with Rover, tells Woman’s Day. Consider things such as how long you’re away from home each day, how often you travel, how active you are, and what kind of time you can really commit to your new dog.

When you know you’re ready to adopt a new friend, this roundup of the best dogs for first-time owners will point you in the right direction. Each of these breeds are known for being easy going and easy to train. And when you're ready to bring a furry friend home, Ellis says you should "consider checking out your local shelter." At the end of the day the most important thing when welcoming a dog into your home, whether you’re a first-time pet parent or not, is the bond you share.