Finding the right dog breed for you

There are hundreds of different breeds of dogs. Each breed has its own particular behaviour and knowing about this will help you choose a dog that's right for you.

Examples of dog breed behaviour

Find examples of dog breed behaviour below to help you choose a dog that's right for you. Note that all dogs are individuals and there's no guarantee that a dog will behave like its breed.

Dog breed behaviour	Choose the behaviour that's right for you
Adapts to living in a flat or apartment	Some breeds are quiet and calm, while others with high-energy will not suit living in a small space.
Affectionate with family	Some breeds bond closely with the family while others are independent and aloof.
Child-friendly	Some breeds are gentle with children and cope well with lots of hugs while other breeds are quite snappy and aren’t child (or family) friendly.
Dog-friendly	Some breeds may try to attack or dominate other breeds, while others prefer to play.
Energy levels	Some breeds have lots of energy and need lots of exercise and mental stimulation - other breeds will prefer to doze for most of the day.
Exercise needs	Some breeds will be happy with a slow stroll, while others prefer more energetic exercise.
Prey drive	Some breeds have an inborn need to chase and sometimes kill other animals - anything speeding by, for example cats, squirrels and even cars, can trigger that instinct.

Banned breeds of dogs in Northern Ireland

Other characteristics to think about

Consider the following points, before you get a dog:

Dog characteristics	More dog characteristics
amount of shedding/ casting of its hair	potential for playfulness
drooling potential	potential for weight gain
easy to groom	potential to wander
easy to train	sensitivity level
friendly towards strangers	size
general health	tendency to bark or howl
good for novice owners	tolerates being alone
intelligence	tolerates cold weather
intensity	tolerates cold weather
potential for mouthiness (tendency to nip, chew and bite at play)

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Finding the right dog breed for you

Examples of dog breed behaviour

Other characteristics to think about

More useful links

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What to do next

Carer's Allowance

Discretionary support / Short-term benefit advance

Disability Living Allowance

Employment and Support Allowance

Jobseeker’s Allowance

Personal Independence Payment

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Finding the right dog breed for you

Examples of dog breed behaviour

Other characteristics to think about

More useful links

Help improve this page - send your feedback

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What to do next

Carer's Allowance

Discretionary support / Short-term benefit advance

Disability Living Allowance

Employment and Support Allowance

Jobseeker’s Allowance

Personal Independence Payment