Welcoming a dog into your home is a big responsibility, especially for first-time owners. Choosing the right breed is essential, as dogs vary widely in size, temperament, and exercise needs. Tom, a veterinary surgeon from Dorset known on social media as Things Can Only Get Vetter, recently revealed his top three dog breeds recommended for those new to dog ownership during a TikTok video.
Tom began by addressing the common trend of vets listing breeds to avoid and instead focused on positive recommendations. His first choice is the greyhound, as well as other sighthounds like whippets, borzoi, lurchers, and Afghan hounds. These dogs are famous for their slender, athletic builds and speed. Surprisingly, despite their reputation for racing, greyhounds are often quite lazy and adapt well to various exercise routines. They enjoy short sprints or long walks and spend a large part of their day resting. Tom describes greyhounds as incredibly affectionate but notes they require attentive dental care. The Royal Kennel Club adds that greyhounds originated from ancient hunting dogs depicted in Egyptian tombs and were historically reserved for royalty. They need about one hour of active exercise daily and typically live more than 10 years.
Next on Tom’s list is the Labrador Retriever, the UK’s most popular breed. Labradors are known for their friendly and energetic nature. While potential health issues like hip and elbow problems exist, these can be mitigated by understanding the health background of the dog’s parents. Labradors suit active households with space to play, making them a reliable and lovable first pet. Historically bred to assist fishermen, Labradors require over two hours of exercise per day and have a lifespan exceeding 10 years.
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Finally, Tom recommends the Border Terrier, a smaller breed recognized by its wiry brown coat and dark snout. Border Terriers are lively, playful, and fit well into many households without demanding excessive exercise. They experience fewer health problems compared to many other breeds and are described as cheerful companions in veterinary practice. Originally working dogs for hunting foxes along the Scotland-Northumberland border, they have transitioned well into urban family life. According to the Royal Kennel Club, Border Terriers need up to an hour of daily exercise and can live beyond 12 years.
Tom’s expert advice provides first-time dog owners with dependable options that combine manageable care with affectionate companionship, helping ensure a positive start to their journey with a new pet.