What is a better first dog?

Question

Norfolk Terrier

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

American Eskimo Dog

Labrador retreiver

Answer 1

Try this site: http://animal.discovery.com/breedselecto...

It should give you some breeds to consider that might match your lifestyle.

Answer 2

I wouldn't suggest a breed known for aggression for a first time owner.  If I was to choose from the ones you've listed I would suggest the Corgi.  Norfolks are very cute, and can be pretty good dogs, but they are also a terrier and they can be a bit much for a first timer. Eskies... well, they are cousins to the spitz and they can be a bit fisty.  Labs.... although they are very sweet affectionate dogs.... if not trained and given the right amount of exercise they can be quite destructive.

Answer 3

Whoa!  These are all very different breeds. Each from a different breed group! I recommend reading up on their temperaments, exercise, grooming and training needs.  Visit a dog show if you can and speak with breeders of these breeds.  Or at least visit each breed's Parent Club website, (just google the name of the breed + "club of america") and you will have access to breed info, rescue organizations and breeders.  

Think about how much time you have each day to take the dog out of the house for a walk, and for the next year, how much time and money you have to train and care for a puppy who will need shots and spay/neuter (unless you plan to show as well).  As well as equipment, crate, leash, collar, etc. And food, toys, chewies, etc.  

Check out this website for some additional info on any breeds you're considering: http://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/

Answer 4

a lab would be good for you but i'm not sure a lab is for a 1st time dog owner.  get one that's not a puppy and can somewhat walk on a leash well.  i have 2 rat terriers and a lab.  the rat terriers will walk or chill at home and are more layed back but the lab is always full of energy.

Answer 5

I don't have experience with the Norfolk so I can't comment on that one.

Labs are lovely and playful but most of the ones I've met are very energetic all through life, and never seem to stop and chill.  Am Esk's might be the same way, but are smaller so easier to control and tucker out.  

My pick would be the Corgi, they're in the Herding group I believe, which naturally makes them personable and trainable.  

Answer 6

It really all depends on you. What is the best dog breed for someone may be the worst possible match for you. Do your research.

Answer 7

Not sure about the Norfolk or the Corgi as breeds.

I would say that the AE would not be a wise choice for a 1st dog unless you are prepared to spend a lot of time learning about the breed and its traits from other owners and breeders.

The Lab to be honest is one of the easiest 1st breeds to own. Providing they are from a good line and good breeding stock.

There is a difference in show and working lines, from the way they look to the drive that they have, so again something to look at.

All i can say is that all 4 breeds are very different in type and character.

You need to look at which one suits your lifestyle the best as i doubt they all would being so very different and from 4 different breed groups.

From what your saying so far the Lab would suit you quite well out of the breeds you have mentioned.

Answer 8

Just going on what you've said, I would tend to suggest a lab - however I would still recommend research.  If the dog will be around children you need to take temperament into account, size of your living quarters, etc.  Corgis can be prone to health problems that may not be something you're going to be prepared for in a first dog.  Labs are popular because they are so well rounded, good temperament, somewhat active etc.  If you're still renting though, you may be better off with a small breed.  Even after you do select a breed though, I'd recommend asking a lot of questions from wherever you get the puppy from, even within breeds you can get a lot of different behaviors!

Answer 9

It depends on your lifestyle. Don't pick a dog because it's "cute". Do your research. They all have different activity levels and needs.

Answer 10

well it really is up to you, but my advice would be to consider the breed, like if your house or flat is not big enough, don't get a large breed, however my house is not huge and my very first dog was a siberian husky, and their really high energy and really playful, so it really depends on you..

Answer 11

all of the above are good dogs but the aed  is really hairy and i dont reccomend those.

Answer 12

Corgis ROCK! Plain and simple. You can't ask for a more loyal friend. Smart and easy to train is an understatement, though they do need a boss and exercise. The more time you spend with her(my recommendation for 1st time owner) though males are certainly laid back. Do your research and buy from someone who cares. The pros outweigh the cons by a mile. It's true, they shed. What dog doesn't? Brush her while you listen to music. They also need some kind of daily activity. Again what dog doesn't? They have a big dog heart and attitude in a compact body. You're an outdoors person, take her with. You'll both have a blast. Ours love to fetch, swim, hike, camp and relax were ever we are. They are very much a part of our family. To love a corgi... well you'll see. Good luck.