What dog breeds are best for single owners?

September 22, 2009 - 2:56 pm 14 Comments

I’m looking for a dog just for myself. I know some breeds are good family dogs or really just love being around people. Which breeds would be content hanging out with just me? Of course I still want a friendly dog who will be sociable with friends and family I have over or people we meet on the street, but maybe one who’s a little more independent and doesn’t need to be around people all the time, you know? Thanks!

Size? Coat type? Grooming needs? Energy level? Exercise needs? Trainability?

More to a dog than it’s friendliness with people. If you don’t have any preferences and you’re willing to work with anything (even high energy shedders or total unknowns) then try going to a shelter and adopting. Otherwise pin down what you want in a dog and do some research – open a few books and check out:

www.akc.org

14 Responses to “What dog breeds are best for single owners?”

  1. Shannon G Says:

    Actually, any breed would be happy with "just you." There’s no specific breed designed for one person, two people, or so on. What you need to look for is a dog that suits your lifestyle: activity and housing for example.

    If it’s just you-make sure you properly socialize your dog to family, friends and other pets so they’ll get used to other people too. If not, they can become apprehensive, overprotective and can get aggressive. Any dog will do that if not properly socialized. So socialization is the key!!!
    References :

  2. bisxgyrl05 Says:

    a retired racing greyhound!!!! (sorry, used to do rescue). they are large dogs (look scary to some), huge couch potatoes (DO NOT need a lot of exercise), and love people. there are rescue groups everywhere. just look up retired racing greyhound. or if you are in a city that has a racing dog park – they do adoptions at the track.

    good luck!
    References :
    kennel worker/aco
    former greyhound owner/rescue volunteer

  3. mr x Says:

    go to an animal shelter and adopt a dog that needs a loving home
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  4. Mutt for the Truth Says:

    Size? Coat type? Grooming needs? Energy level? Exercise needs? Trainability?

    More to a dog than it’s friendliness with people. If you don’t have any preferences and you’re willing to work with anything (even high energy shedders or total unknowns) then try going to a shelter and adopting. Otherwise pin down what you want in a dog and do some research – open a few books and check out:

    http://www.akc.org
    References :
    Owned by Mutt

  5. Tenisha Says:

    i fine a male is better for a single woman
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  6. Cheryl E Says:

    I can see what youre afraid of. Many dogs don’t do well alone all day and need lots of attention. Thoughs dogs do better in families due to there being so many people to take care of them. Socialization is important so they don’t get aggressive. Giving the dog attention when you are home is key. And lots of exercise!.
    C.C.
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  7. hopefaith&love Says:

    west highland terrier’s…they are really the best and cutest dogs ALIVE
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  8. helenh Says:

    Lab. They are wonderful dogs.
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  9. Crittersintrouble Says:

    There is an excellent book titled "The Right Dog For You". You can get it at your local book store or library.
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  10. Alicia New Brasky Pic! Says:

    Is there any particular breed you gravitate to?
    *If so…start researching. Get into contact with breed clubs, read about the breed on the internet, get hands on time with dogs of this breed.

    Is there a certain size you are aiming for?

    What Coat length are you looking for?

    Is shedding a factor?

    How high of an Activity level do you want?

    I find it best to start by answering these questions to yourself. Get out around many dogs of different breeds, sizes, sex, shapes as you can. Eventually you will find one that suits you.

    Me? I’ve always gravitated to the German Shepherd Dog. So that’s what I went for…best choice I’ve ever made!
    References :

  11. Buffy B Says:

    I’m single and I have Great Dane/Lab mix! he’s huge, but lovable!
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  12. Christa R Says:

    i would get a lab. They are loyal and loving and very friendly. I have a female lab and she is the most happy and sweetest dog in the world. She loves my cats and she is friendly with all visitors.
    References :
    Personal experience

  13. tiit t Says:

    Dachshund is the best!!!!!!!
    I got one and she’s very friendly and wants company.
    Most people call it a wiener dog
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  14. Lee Says:

    It depends on if you want a big dog or a lap dog. I recommend adopting a rottweiler.
    References :

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