What Would Be a Good Type of Puppy for a Pet?

Puppies certainly are cute, but they do not remain puppies for long. When considering which type of dog will make the best pet, keep a few things in mind. Bringing a new pet into a home will require a change in your life and schedule. Determine the family's physical activity level, how much time family members spend at home or away, space requirements and available time for training. Determine what type of dog fits best into a particular lifestyle. A high-energy dog that needs regular exercise will not fit into a home where the family members remain sedentary.

  1. Golden Retriever

    • Golden retrievers are popular medium-to-large dogs -- 60 to 80 pounds --and remain a favorite among families due to their patience, devotion and gentleness around children. Lovable, intelligent and well-mannered, these dogs enjoy spending time around people and pleasing their masters. Golden retrievers train easily and do well in competitions. Without regular daily exercise and mental stimulation, these dogs may become high-strung, over exuberant or even destructive. They also make great watchdogs, loudly barking and signaling the approach of anyone they do not know. These dogs experience average shedding and will live to 10 to 12 years old.

    West Highland White Terrier

    • Also known as a "Westie," these small, sturdy dogs -- 15 to 22 pounds -- love companionship and will get along well with children and with strangers. Westies travel well and remain extremely self-assured around other dogs but will not tend pick fights if trained properly. Lively, spirited and strong, this breed makes a great watchdog in spite of its size. Owners must display firm, consistent leadership to avoid behavior problems like biting, guarding food and becoming overly territorial. Westies shed little, need occasional grooming and live about 15 years or more.

    Standard Poodle

    • A good-natured and graceful breed, the standard poodle has a high level of intelligence. A medium-to-large dog -- 45 to 70 pounds -- standard poodles tend toward less energy than the smaller varieties of poodles. They are excellent with children and remain friendly, even in the presence of strangers. Poodles need regular exercise to avoid becoming high-strung. This breed likes to spend time with people and dislikes isolation. Poodles will not shed but require regular grooming. They lives about 12 to 15 years or more.

    Beagle

    • These strong and hardy little hounds -- 20 to 25 pounds -- look remarkably like miniature foxhounds. Sociable, brave, loving and gentle, the beagle seems happy and greets just about anyone. They are excellent with children and other dogs, and they work especially well as part of the family pack. Beagles may hurt other non-canine pets unless socialized with cats or other household pets as puppies. Daily pack walks will prevent separation anxiety in this breed. They typically live until age 12 to 15.