Though it’s great to adopt and rescue dogs in need, it’s important to consider the environment you’ll be taking them home to. You don’t want to have them landing up miserable after all. Looking for a furry friend? Check out this list of breeds, and pick your favorite!
Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier is named after their original home in Ireland, and of course, their gorgeous grey-toned coat of fur. Lovable as they are fluffy, these Irish dogs are incredible companions.
Originally bred for pest control, they’re known for making great working and hunting dogs. Their work-like and hunting temperament is a great indicator of their energy levels. These dogs need space to keep them busy.
Teddy Roosevelt Terrier
These guys may be little, but they’ve got big personalities, and are very lively and personable. Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are named after the President who gave them the job of getting rid of mice in the white house while he was in office.
They do best with families who won’t have to leave them in kennels, as they prefer to stay with their humans and can exhibit signs of separation anxiety if left alone (like many other dogs!)
Cavapoo
A Cavapoo is bred from a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Miniature Poodle. Because of their hypoallergenic nature, they don’t shed very much at all, nor do they drool as much as other breeds, which is another trigger for those with pet allergies.
If you love your pooches, but hate the sneezes that comes with it, this might be the perfect dog for you..
Sprollie
A crossbreed between an English Springer Spaniel and Border Collie, Sprollies are a high-energy, active, and super smart bunch of dogs. Because of their personalities and energy levels, they’re not the best breed to have around small children.
Make sure you start the training process early with a Sprollie, and you’ll have an amazing new best friend.
Portuguese Water Dog
Not the most popular sounding breed, that's probably because they're great around watery environments. Makes sense! These smart, curly-haired dogs were bred to help fishermen with all of their day-to-day activities, such as herding fish into nets and even retrieving lost gear.
Portuguese Water Dogs are easy to train and love to please their loving families. They’re still used today for certain water-rescue missions, but they also make wonderful companions.
Samoyed
These dogs were bred in Siberia to hunt and pull sleds, hence the double-layered white coat that makes them look like marshmallows. Seeing as they originated in Siberia and are bonafide sled dogs, they're best suited to colder climates.
They’re both smart and kind, and they usually get along with people and other animals.
Puggle
When you breed a Beagle and a Pug, the result is the fun-loving Puggle! They’re typically very nice and get along with other animals and children. The one thing you have to look out for with a puggle (like many other smaller dogs) is that they will sometimes bark – a lot.
If you’re not prepared for the noise, you may want to keep looking for a different breed!
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
These stocky British bulldogs are strong and sturdy for their size, and, like most bully breeds, won’t back down easily when they’re faced with a challenge. They make wonderful family guard dogs due to their sweet, loving nature and loyal temperaments. In fact, they’ve earned the nickname “the nanny dog.”
It's the kind of dog that will take care of you no matter what, hence the nickname.
Border Collie
These Scotland-born dogs were originally bred as herders, which they do incredibly well. In fact, the word “collie” is actually a Scottish term for “sheepdog.”
Border Collies are highly intelligent and enjoy having a job to do.
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is another super-popular breed of dog in the U.S, and for good reason. They’re as smart as they are loyal, and they’re often used as working dogs, particularly within law enforcement and military. With those perky ears and sharp nose, you know they're on alert.
While they are often used for that, they also make wonderful companions for families.
Chinese Crested Dog
The Chinese Crested Dog may have Chinese in its name, but it actually comes from Central America, where it was originally bred to control rats on ships. Because they did their job very well, they became beloved among boat crews.
There are actually two variations of this breed; one with fur and one without. Their tiny size makes them the cutest lap dogs.
Australian Kelpie
Australian Kelpies are the bee’s knees when it comes to sheepherding. With loads of intelligence and an abundance of energy, Kelpies are better suited for experienced dog owners, and they aren’t the best option for homes with small children.
Thus, if you’re planning to have any small children in your home at any point over the Kelpie’s lifespan, you probably want to keep searching!
Akita
Akita’s are powerful (and fluffy) dogs, but don’t let that adorable face fool you, because they have tough qualities and don’t easily back down. They have a natural wariness around strangers, so be patient when getting them acquainted with new faces and smells.
This feisty breed hails from the mountainous areas of Japan. When socialized properly, these dogs are wonderful for the family.
Thai Ridgeback
Thai Ridgebacks have a unique ridge of hair that grows in the opposite direction as the rest of his fur and will often stand up when they’re excited or on edge.
Smart and agile, they’re best for those who have experience with raising dogs, because if properly trained, they make excellent, loving pets.
Bergamasco Sheepdog
This mop, sorry, dog, has probably the longest, thickest coat of any on our list. This is thanks to them hailing from harsh climates in the mountains all the way from Persia to the Italian Alps. Thier fur is so thick that it mats a little too easily.
Amazingly, these highly intelligent and loving "hippie" sheepdogs don’t actually shed that much!
Tibetan Mastiff
Dog lovers know that any breed with the term “Mastiff” in it is going to be huge. Mastiff = massive! Tibetan Mastiffs are seen as a status symbol in China and often used as guard dogs by royals and other people of power.
One woman reportedly spent upwards of four million yuan (about $590,000) to buy a purebred puppy. Now not many breeds can say that about themselves.
Icelandic Sheepdog
This fluffy, adorable breed is the only one that Iceland can claim as their own to date. Their ancestors were known all the way back to the 800s, when they were used to help with herding and guarding animals like sheep, cattle, and horses.
Playful and loving, they make terrific family dogs, and they get along with everyone.
American Pit Bull Terrier
These big babies have seemed to have gotten a bad reputation around the U.S, due to them being used in dog fighting a lot over the years.
However, like any breed, they’re conditioned to act a certain way, and without the cruelty of people who force them into aggression, Pit Bulls are loyal, silly, sweet, and loving dogs that make wonderful companions.
Saint Bernard
Usually, when spotting a Saint Bernard, we’re immediately reminded of the Beethoven films from the early ‘90s. The actor dog did a nice job portraying the real personality of the Saint Bernard breed: sweet, protective, and intelligent.
This gentle giant is a terrific addition to the family and gets along with everybody, from young to old.
Cane Corso
Cane Corsos grow to be over 100 pounds in weight and have big (adorable) heads that make them the perfect guard dog to scare away any would-be intruders. Though their appearance makes them look scary, they’re actually very sweet and loyal.
Because of their smarts and size, it’s important to stay confident when dealing with a Corso, and proper training should begin at a young age.
Schipperke
The Schipperke (which is actually pronounced like “Skipper-key,) was bred to be a small yet vicious hunter of “vermin.” These days, this means that they’ve got big heads and sassy personalities, but they’re also very smart and easy to train – so long as you start when they’re puppies.
They don’t do well alone, and they especially aren’t good for anyone who would have to put them in a kennel during the day.
Leonberger
Leonbergers are first known to have come from Germany in the 1800s and became a favorite breed among royals throughout Europe. Fluffy and large, they look a bit like a lion, which is one of the reasons so many chose them as companions and guards for their family homes.
They may look cute and cuddly, but this isn’t a breed for a first-time dog owner, as they need to be trained properly or they’ll run the house!
Newfoundland
Another large breed on our list is the kind and protective Newfoundland. They can grow to be up to 150 pounds and about 28-inches in height.
Newfoundlands make great dogs for those living in homes with large yards, as they don’t do well cramped up in small spaces like apartments.
Belgian Laekenois
Another dog on our list that was initially bred as a sheepdog, the Belgian Laekenois makes a great guard dog, and is fiercely loyal and protective of his family and home. These dogs can also run like crazy.
Smart, playful, and full of energy, these working dogs need to have plenty of exercise and grooming, and they do best with active owners who will brush and bathe them regularly.
English Bulldog
Bulldogs are known for their muscles but also their adorable “squishmug,” faces. Although they were originally bred to help with baiting and hauling cattle, the English Bulldog is a sweet, good-natured, and loyal friend who’s particularly low maintenance, so long as they get enough exercise to not put on too much weight!
How can you resist that sloppy face? A real plus is that they don't need much, just a lot of open space.
Pyrenean Shepherd
Pyrenean Shepherds are incredibly smart, which can sometimes lead them into mischief. They come with two kinds of coats; rough, and smooth, and were originally bred to work as a sheepherder with the Great Pyrenees.
Their busy-body nature and their fluffy faces make them a family favorite.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers have a strong and thick stature, thanks to being bred to help drive cattle and pull carts. They were also some of the first dogs to ever be used for working in law enforcement, which is why they tend to look a little intimidating once they're grown
These sleek, short-haired pups are sweet, calm, and incredibly loyal.
Cesky Terrier
These handsome bearded boys are so regal that their face is plastered on a postage stamp. They’re also the national dog of the Czech Republic – now that’s a pretty cool honor for a pooch to hold. And get a load of those bangs and mustache!
Cesky Terriers are smart, loyal, and loving, and, as members of a pack breed, they enjoy being around other animals, especially dogs.
Bernese Mountain Dog
These intelligent working dogs came to Switzerland in the hands of the Romans thousands of years ago. Known for being an “all-purpose” dog, they make good working and family dogs.
These big balls of energy really dislike being stuck inside (especially in small spaces) and they work best for experienced and active dog owners.
Berger Picard
Don’t let the shaggy coat fool you, this loyal and sporty breed may appear to be a mixed breed “mutt,” but the Berger Picard hails from France, where he was bred to herd sheep.
Although they have a longer fur than some, they only require some mild, infrequent grooming (such as brushing them once per week) to control shedding.
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are loving companion dogs that are very intelligent and easy to train. Known for their soft, long mane, they can also require a lot of work when it comes to keeping them properly groomed!
They love to be with their humans, and they’re happy whether they’re sitting on your lap for some TV time or walking by your side through the neighborhood.
American Labrador
American Labradors and English Labradors are both Labs and Retrievers, although there are some distinct differences that have established them as different types of dogs. The American version of this friendly and loyal breed tends to have a slimmer and finer coat and a slightly higher level of energy.
They make excellent companions, but, like most medium-large breeds, they require plenty of exercise!
Boykin Spaniel
This friendly, long-eared retriever was actually bred in South Carolina, in the U.S., to help with hunting and birding duties. They’re a terrific and loving family pet, but they also make a terrific working dog and are incredibly agile and intelligent.
Boykin Spaniels do best with active owners and those who will ensure they get plenty of excitement and exercise.
English Labrador
The English Labrador was bred as a show dog but is now commonly used as companions and/or service dogs. In fact, they are widely regarded as being the “ultimate family dog,”
Thanks to their kind hearts, they have the ability to get along with everyone, even the other pets!
Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound
Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds are calm and collected pets that are loyal to their loving owners, but more reserved around humans they don’t know. They are very balanced in that they’re not too shy or overly aggressive.
Hailing from Germany, they’re mostly known for their killer tracking abilities, thanks to their “cold nose” skills. They do best with owners who will keep them by their side, and not kennel them.
Norwegian Lundehund
This adorable little guy comes from an island in Norway and was bred as a hunting companion who was able to move quickly and efficiently along the rocks and crevices of Vaeroy.
Because of that, they actually have six functioning toes and extra pads on the bottom! They have a lot of energy and are super smart.
Great Dane
Great Danes are massive compared to most other dogs and can grow to be up to over 170 pounds. But inside of those giant bodies sits a heart that’s just as big.
They make excellent guard dogs, but beware: they don’t know how huge they are, and they will want to lay on top of you while you’re watching TV!
Estrela Mountain Dog
Estrela Mountain dogs come from Portugal, where they’re one of the oldest breeds known to man. They’re very large, like Mastiffs, and loyal to their loving families.
Although they may look like they’re ferocious, they’re actually very sweet, though they still make an excellent guard dog!
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These affectionate and playful little guys are great for active owners that like taking them on outdoor adventures, like walking along the beach or going for hikes. Just ask Queen Victoria, whose Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Dash once dove into the water and chased after her sailboat to join her on a trip.
Originating from the U.K, they’re now a very popular breed in the States as well.
French Bulldog
They may be called the French Bulldog, but these stocky little guys actually hail from England, where they were created as a mini companion bulldog.
With their loving and patient personalities, they make great family and/or show dogs, and are suitable for living in apartments or houses.
Golden Retriever
This beloved golden pooch is the go-to family dog. They are super good-natured and adore people. Thanks to their friendly and loyal personalities and their incredible intelligence, Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in the U.S.
Their calm and sweet temperament also makes them the perfect therapy dog which is why you often see them in these positions.
Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound was originally bred to assist in war and drag people off of their horses and chariots. This means that they’re both fast and tall, and also formidable at that! These dogs grow so tall that they actually reach the same size as a small pony.
Bare that in mind if you want to take on this giant dog. But tehy are as lovable as they are big!
Coton de Tulear
This fluffy little white companion pooches are otherwise known as “the Royal Dog of Madagascar.” They’re as smart and charming as they are adorable, and they’re a delight to have around.
That's because they are known for having famously bright and sweet personalities. There's also a reason why their name sounds like "cotton."
Labradoodle
The Labradoodle is the adorable result of a Labrador that is bred with a Poodle. These dogs are a highly sought-after breed in the U.S. And, with their smooth coat that doesn’t shed very much, and a cool and calm personality, it’s no wonder!
They do get pretty big, however, and work better for those who have homes with large yards.
English Springer Spaniel
These medium-sized active dogs are born and bred people-pleasers, and they love to stick by their human's side. They’re as smart and loyal as they are handsome, and they make an excellent addition to an active family.
If you’re headed out for an adventure at the beach or park, they’d love nothing more than to go with!
Cavachon
Cavachons are also bred down from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, this time with a Bichon Frise. They’re small and spunky, and love to have fun with their families, whether it means going for walks or hanging out in the living room.
Because of their small stature, they do well for those who live in houses or apartments.
Chow Chow
Chow Chows are known for their fluffy fur and blue tongues, and hail from ancient China. They’ve been seen in some art that dates back to 206 b.c.
They are also said to be some of the cleanest dogs, and easily trained/housebroken.
Boxer
These muscular, mid-size dogs make a great guard, which is what they were initially intended for. With a lot of energy, it’s important that Boxers get plenty of exercises, and several walks through the day.
They're most happy when they have a big old yard to run around in. With those legs, they sure do need a lot of space to roam and run.
Cockapoo
These designer dogs are a cross between a Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel and are known for being particularly sweet (and small.)
If you’re looking for a dog that does well in apartment settings, the Cockapoo should definitely be on your list of considerations! They’re smart, loyal, and love their families.