Dog Breeds A–Z

Good-natured, eager-to-please breeds such as the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever and Maltese are considered beginner-friendly. More important than the breed itself is that exercise needs, size and grooming effort fit your daily life. Use the "Beginner-friendly" filter to see all suitable breeds.

Ideal weight depends on breed and sex – males are usually heavier than females. Every breed in this list gives the ideal range separately for males and females. The body condition score also matters: ribs should be easy to feel but not visible, and the dog should have a clear waist.

Small breeds are often fully grown at 10–12 months, while large and giant breeds only finish growing at 18–24 months. The larger the dog, the more important slow, controlled growth is to avoid joint and bone problems. Each breed lists the approximate age.

Breeds without a seasonal coat change, such as the Poodle, Maltese or Bichon, shed very little – their hair grows continuously and needs regular clipping instead. Double-coated breeds like the Labrador or German Shepherd, by contrast, shed year-round and heavily during the coat change.