Bringing a pooch into your home might feel like an excellent idea for new couples but, it can make or break a relationship.
On one hand, you have to nurture your relationship through its first few steps in marriage, and you’ll also bear the responsibility for a dog. Putting these two responsibilities together will easily get on your nerves, and your dog may not get as much attention as it needs. Also, if one spouse gets too attached to the dog, your marriage suffers.
So, taking all these elements into account, then factoring in the fact that most marriages run downhill after the exchange of vows (instant reality check) or moving in together, how do you make sure that you strike a balance between your baby and your marriage?
Remember, while dogs can strengthen your bond and make you more committed, dogs, just like kids, are a full-time job.
10 Best Dog Breeds For New Couples
1. Labrador Retriever
Fun fact: If you’re an outgoing and adventurous couple, this is the perfect dog breed for you. Labrador Retrievers love the outdoors, especially when they have to engage in water-related activities.
A Labrador Retriever comes top on the list for an adventurous couple not only for the dog’s love of adventure but also because of its loyalty and high intelligence. Labs are also natural family dogs that share their love with the whole household; they are loving, obedient, and fun-loving. You might also love a lab because of its even disposition, high level of trainability, and the best part: the low upkeep cost. All you need is a spirit ready to groom the dog frequently and a love for high-intensity workouts!
2. Boxer
Fun fact: Boxers have very short, shiny coat that requires very minimal maintenance. Unlike double-coated dogs, boxers only shed once a year.
If you agree on an intelligent and playful dog, a boxer will be high on your list. This dog is loyal, it’s patient, and when you get kids, you won’t have to worry thanks to the dog’s spirited nature around kids and its protectiveness. Though friendly, a boxer will show a level of aggression when around other dogs which makes it territorial – bringing home different dog breed months later will call for close monitoring.
3. German Short-Haired Pointer
Fun fact: Bred for hunting, these dogs are perfect outdoor companions. They are smart, protective, and full of energy.
This is another appealing option for new couples since the dog is easy to train and does not require much work. However, this cute German Short-haired Pointer requires a lot of physical activity, and being a high-energy dog; you won’t keep up if you prefer chilling at home.
The German Short-haired Pointer is medium-sized, extremely loyal, and enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and long walks. Keep in mind that they are bred for hunting. So, make sure they are properly introduced to other companion animals.
4. Viszla
Fun fact: A Viszla is an active, high-energy dog. Vizslas are loyal, but they will demand playtime.
If you or your partner like to exercise and would like a companion, include a Viszla in your list of potential dogs. It is affectionate and quite easy to train. It does not shed much, keeping grooming costs considerably low. Nevertheless, Viszla is one of the best dog breeds for active couples.
5. Brittany
Fun fact: A Brittany dog breed (also called a Spaniel) is one of the many breeds that is less likely to develop a dominant temperament. It is a loyal and active family friend.
If you are first-time dog parents, a Brittany comes highly recommended first because it is cute and secondly because its grooming needs are low given the moderate shedding. Its flat or wavy coat with little feathering around the belly and legs will require weekly brushing.
As long as you socialize it well, this dog is very polite and peaceful around other dogs. Note that Brittany is a sensitive dog with a soft temperament. It’s also an intelligent dog. If you are into hunting and bird watching, a Brittany will give you excellent company.
6. Weimaraner
Fun fact: Weimaraners are bred for hunting because of their independence, but they can be quite timid.
They are also easy to train, but you want to begin training at a tender age. Unfortunately, this large dog breed is not suitable for everyone, and especially not for first-time dog parents. Being a large hunting dog, it’s expensive to maintain; but it’s a great house dog too. You should also be aware of its high-energy needs and even higher stamina, as well as its need for constant exercise coupled with the need for mental stimulation.
It’s a protective dog hence a great guardian. It may shed little fur or a lot of furs. Did you know that that this is one of the smartest dogs out there?
7. Boston Terrier
Fun fact: A Boston Terrier might be your ideal dog as a couple thanks to its friendly and loyal nature. It is one of the dogs trained to offer emotional support, and it’s ideal for first-time parents.
This small dog makes a great family dog, and it relates with other pets well. Being Brachycephalic, this dog is prone to respiratory problems. However, this doesn’t stop it from being an excellent companion. It’s a low-activity/ relaxed dog, and it doesn’t require a lot of exercise. Despite being on high alert most of the time, it’s not aggressive. Grooming is not a big deal since the dog sheds minimally. You need to brush its hair twice weekly. Keep in mind that this dog is highly intelligent, easy to train, but stubborn.
8. Australian Cattle Dog
Fun fact: They look fierce, but the Australian Cattle Dog is super goofy and friendly. As a herding dog, it needs to be outplaying to feel alive.
If you are prepared to have a pet that requires regular grooming and likes to go out and about, this is breed would work well for you. It is easy to train, and it’s loving.
9. German Pinscher
Fun fact: This breed is very friendly with other animals. Although it’s an indoor dog, it prefers spending some of its quality time outdoors.
The German Pinscher is super-intelligent, obedient, energetic, and a bundle of fun. They do not shed much and are easy to train. This dog stands tall, about knee-length as an adult and because of its high-energy needs and also the inherent need to spend time outdoors, perhaps chasing your cat, this dog is unsuitable for couples living in the city.
10. Havanese
Fun fact: The Havanese dog breed is loyal, but it lies on the clingy side of the equation.
First off, the Havanese is a dog you’ll easily fall in love with thanks to its long and silky hair, its expressive eyes, and cuddly size. On top of that, it is an affectionate and happy dog, intelligent and highly trainable. However, your Havanese needs significant socialization because it gets clingy and timid when around strangers.
While it’s sturdier than most toy breeds, it expresses itself with its deep voice: you might confuse its voice for that of a larger dog. It is not aggressive, and it doesn’t require much exercise. It’s an indoor/ apartment dog, and it does not shed its fur (brushing is essential though).