As of 2013, there are 339 dog breeds in the world, according to Fédération Cynologique Internationale. With so many breeds, it can be hard to identify the best dog breed of them all. As such, we chose to identify the top 3 best canine pets according to certain categories. By doing so, you will be able to determine for yourself which breeds have superior qualities. Also, with this dog breed comparison, you will be able to identify which types suit you best.
Dog Breeds with the Least Health Issues
With a lifespan of 10-14 years, this breed is known for its high energy, intelligence, and stamina. Animal specialists frequently identify this dog as among the healthiest, even though it is not immune to certain health issues. Border Collies are susceptible to hyperthyroidism, collie eye anomaly, canine hip dysplasia, and lens luxation.
2. Chihuahua
This breed may be one of the smallest of all but it is no less sturdy. Averaging 14-18 years, this petite dog breed does not need as much exercise thanks to its miniature size. However, it is also known to be prone to pulmonic stenosis (heart valve disorder), hypoglycaemia, and patellar luxation.
3. Mixed breeds
Mongrels, according to some researchers, are less likely to be affected by hyperthyroidism, allergic skin disease, musculoskeletal issues, and some varieties of heart disease. These dogs do not inbreed as much and thus are not as affected by certain genetic diseases. Although they can outlive purebreds, some cross-breeds are prone to certain health conditions.
Most Trainable Dog Breeds
This family-friendly and fun dog is on every “smartest dogs” list. Intelligent, versatile, and eager to please, the Golden Retriever is a highly teachable canine.
Military and police are partial to this breed for its intelligence, courage, diligence, confidence, and obedience. Its strength and loyalty also add to its appeal as a highly trainable dog.
3. Rottweiler
This is another breed favoured by the police and service institutions. Despite its imposing appearance, the Rottweiler is a loving and loyal breed that likes to work and is highly teachable.
Least Shedding Dog Breeds
1. Bichon Frise
Those with allergies approve of the Bichon Frise’s hypoallergenic soft coat that hardly sheds. This playful dog needs daily grooming to prevent matting.
2. Poodle
A toy, miniature, or standard-sized poodle has hypoallergenic hair that does not shed as much. However, the Poodle needs to be regularly clipped every 6-8 weeks, as well as weekly brushings.
Lowest Maintenance Dog Breeds
1. Dachshund
Miniature Dachshunds make good couch mates as they sleep for hours in the same spot. The Dachshund’s size, easy-to-groom coat, and moderate activity make them a suitable companion for busy city dwellers.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Light exercise is all this toy dog breed needs. Affectionate and gentle, this dog likes to quietly snuggle on the couch.
Most Energetic Dog Breeds
A very intelligent and equally active breed, the JRT is bred to hunt and thus enjoys canine sports (e.g. Earthdog). Its small size belies its expansive reservoir of energy, requiring much mental and physical exercise to stay happy and content.
As a herding dog, the energetic Australian Shepherd requires much exercise to keep him busy and stimulated. Otherwise, he may use his “herding” tendencies on other pets or people.
This popular breed is ideal for active families and individuals due to its very high energy. The Labrador Retriever needs to be regularly exercised to keep it from becoming bored and from engaging in destructive activities.
Least Energetic Dog Breeds
1. Basset Hound
Although a scent hound, this breed tends to move slowly and maintains a relaxed demeanour. The Basset Hound only requires light exercise.
2. Bulldog
Although this docile breed likes its daily walks, it does not like to jog or walk long distances. The Bulldog likes to nap and follow a laid-back routine.
3. Chow Chow
Data from dog activity tracking collars made by a certain company revealed that the Chow Chow logged the least active minutes per day. At 43.36 minutes of daily activity on average, this breed shows that it prefers to guard its humans quietly.
Quietest Dog Breeds
This Swiss dog breed may be mouthy and nippy as a puppy, but it is steady, quiet, and calm as an adult. Being a working breed, this is an active dog that requires daily exercise.
2. Basenji
This is a “barkless” breed due to its flat larynx. When the Basenji vocalises, it will make a sound similar to a yodel rather than a bark. The noise it makes is less likely to bother the neighbours.
3. Great Dane
One of the biggest canine breeds, the Great Dane is calm, quiet, and gentle. It does not give in to barking even in the midst of other yapping dogs. When it does bark, its voice is deeper and louder than that of other breeds.
Most Affectionate Dog Breeds
1. Labrador Retriever
This is the most popular dog breed in the UK and the US due to its very loving and affectionate nature. Intelligent, good with children, and playful, Labrador Retrievers are eager to please their humans.
2. Golden Retriever
This dog breed rivals the Labrador Retriever in affection and eagerness to please its owners. As an intelligent and active breed, the Golden Retriever wears many hats in the service of humans. It is involved in search and rescue work, as well as in assisting differently abled people.
3. Pug
Fun, loyal, friendly, and affectionate, this breed loves to cuddle with its people. The Pug is an entertaining and loving dog eager to please its human.
Most Independent Dog Breeds
1. Afghan Hound
This elegant canine has been bred to assist hunters in chasing animals even at long distances. As such, it is a very independent dog that needs only minimal direction. It is not likely to engage in attention-seeking behaviour.
2. Shiba Inu
This Japanese breed are strong willed and independent. It can tolerate being on its own for long periods of time. Being energetic, intelligent, and territorial, the Shiba Inu requires an assertive owner.
3. Basenji
This “barkless” dog breed is known for its cat-like personality and independence. Although the Basenji prefers to do things by itself, it is capable of bonding with one or two humans in a household.
Which do you think are the top 3 best dogs? Has this list helped you determine which dog breed is most suitable for you? Let us know in the comments below.
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