I like Australian Shepherds. They seem more low key than German Shepherds and Labs. Mini dogs are just weird.

In my experience the Whippet is an ideal first dog; submissive, undemanding, sweet-natured, good with kids, needs minimum exercise,quiet, almost a cat really!

I was thinking of the so-called toy breeds. Maybe a pug. I have a Whippet (somebody recommended the Whippet) and they are moderately "easy" but not for dummies. They will hunt and kill rabbits and rodents, and during the hunt they run fast and far, and you cannot call them back until they are done. Get training with your dog on how to prevent behavioural problems and how to practice obedience and social skills with your dog! Arrange this BEFORE you get your dog. My girlfriend pointed out (and I agree) that working dogs are a no-go area. Same goes for fighting / guarding / mountain breeds. Don't choose a dog from a working breeding line.

http://dogs.about.com/cs/generalcare/f/faq_dog_choice.htm http://dogs.about.com/cs/breedprofiles/a/choosing_a_dog.htm You should look for a breed that is generally easy to train, and intelligent. Poodles, Labs, and Golden Retrievers are good examples. The websites I listed above address the specific question you asked, "What is a good dog for a first time owner" and "what dog is right for me". Look around, there are actually a bunch of sites on the internet that will help you select a breed that will work well with your experience, and other needs (schedule, yard space, grooming, etc).

i agree with Jenniferocious http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/109238

labs

labs

What about the poor old mongrel,affectionate,loyal and you could adopt one from the shelter and really good choise for a first dog.

I agree with Auntie Em...check out your local Pound and ASPCA shelters. They have many dogs who would do anything to please anyone who would just give them a chance. Just take your time and spend as much time as you can that day with the ones you are interested in. Puppies ARE a lot of work because they know NOTHING about anything WE would like them to know. They must be taught and that takes time, energy and dedication to being clear, simple and then rewarding for the correct behaviors. An older puppy age 6 months to 18 months has developed a bigger bladder, so can hold it longer, but they too may need training...or may have had some training...including some accidental training that you'll have to work a bit to RETRAIN them correctly (USING POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT TRAINING to make it FUN and easier for you both!) A young dog 18 to 24 months may or may not have been well trained...but they are MORE mature...ripe for learning...and their bladder has reached full size so they are more capable of holding it as they learn that there is a proper place to let go! Many times an Adult age 2 years to 8 years is still young enough to provide you with some years of wonderful love and companionship and you will provide love and a safe, stable home for a wonderful dog in need. THIS IS A SHORT LIST OF PUREBRED DOGS I would NOT suggest considering for the first time owner..They are great breeds, but they really do best with a person who has some to a lot of experience. Afghan Hound, Akita, Alaskan Malamute, Staffordshire Terrier, Basenji, Beagle, Black and Tan Coonhound, Bloodhound, Border Collie, Briard, Brittany Spanial, Chow Chow, Cocker Spaniel, Dachshund, Dalmatian, Finnish Spitz, German Shorthaired Pointer, German Wirehaired Pointer, Komondor, Kuvasz, Parson Russell Terrier/Jack Russell, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Rottweiler, Saluki,Scottish Terrier, Shiba Inu, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Siberian Husky, Vizsla Weimaraner, Yorkshire Terrier.

Its hard to find a bad golden retriever. They have great temperments and not many health problems. They are numerous so they are easy to find or pick one from the litter you like. They are intelligent. Don't require much grooming.

Mutts

Mutts are the best dogs in the world. You can take pride in knowing that your dog is an individual, unlike any other and that you helped the overpopulation problem rather than adding to it by buying from a breeder. And you saved a life which is a pretty cool thing that we don't get to do everyday. Whatever you choose to do every dog is amazing and any dog will be a lot of work but worth it in the end. My first was a mutt and he was an angel from day one, second also a mutt and was a tornado for the first two years to the day but came around with plenty of patience and love. I strongly suggest checking your local pound and dog rescue groups. The rescue groups are amazing actually! My first dog came from one and there was a team of people on the phone calling asking questions giving me advice over and over too so it all set in. I really would have been clueless bringing my first puppy home if it hadn't been for them, they tell you all sorts of things you wouldn't even think to ask because they care so much that they are placing the dogs in good homes. Find a dog that you connect with. The rest will work itself out, the good and the bad times. Good luck!

Golden Retrievers are great dogs for first time owners. The Golden Retriever is an intelligent, well-mannered breed with a charming, affectionate personality. Because of their patience and gentleness, they are outstanding with children. They are loyal, self-assured, and they constantly aim to please. They make terrific family companions. They get along well with everyone, including strangers, and they have very few natural guarding instincts. While they won’t attack an intruder, they will bark loudly if they detect a threat. This breed needs to be in the company of people in order to be happy. If left alone for extended periods of time, they may become mischievous or distractible. Golden Retrievers also love to swim. Source: http://www.greatdogsite.com/breeds/details/Golden_Retriever/