30 Best Dog Breeds Of All Time
Dogs are wonderful but choosing which dog breed is best for you can be a challenge. Not all dogs are created equal, they come in various sizes and each have different personalities so it is important to find a dog that suits your lifestyle and personality.
With this in mind, we have listed the 30 best dog breeds of all time. These are based on important factors so everyone can find the dog breed that best suits their family.
Best Guard Dogs
1. German Shepherd
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Size: 55 - 65cm
Weight: 30 - 40kg
Character: Intelligent, loyal, protective, dependable
Colour: Black, Black & Tan, Cream, Tan, White, Grey
Life Expectancy: 9 - 13 years
In the late 1800s, Captain Max von Stephanitz worked on developing a German herder dog which resulted in the ancestors of the German Shepherd Dogs we know and love today. The German Shepherd breed is fierce and focused, they are one of the best guard dog breeds in the world and are often used by military and police forces thanks to their high intelligence, alertness, and reliability.
Check out our guide on German Shepherds.
2. Belgian Malinois
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Size: 55 - 65cm
Weight: 20 - 40kg
Character: Confident, hardworking, smart
Colour: Fawn, Mahogany, Red, Red Sable, Fawn Sable
Life Expectancy: 14 - 16 years
First bred in Malines in Belgium, the Belgian Malinois breed is known for forming unbreakable bonds with its humans. The breed is intelligent, versatile and thrives on being with their human family. Belgian Malinois are similar to German Shepherds, they have been used to assist the military in tough conditions and thrive on both protecting and guarding.
3. Doberman
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Size: 63 - 72cm
Weight: 40 - 45kg
Character: Loyal, fearless, alert
Colour: Black & Rust, Blue & Rust, Red & Rust, Fawn & Rust
Life Expectancy: 9 - 12 years
Created in the 1800s by Herr Friedrich Louis Dobermann, the Doberman breed was developed for protection and companionship. As such, the breed is loyal, fearless, and highly intelligent. Dobermans are natural guard dogs and they are affectionate with their owners which means they suit family life well.
Check out our guide on Dobermans.
4. Rottweiler
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Size: 56 - 70cm
Weight: 50 - 60kg
Character: Loving, loyal, confident, powerful
Colour: Black & Tan
Life Expectancy: 8 - 10 years
Rottweilers are a popular family pet and are known for their nature to protect and guard. The breed is thought to go back to ancient times when Romans invaded Europe. Rottweilers were often found in Rottweil, Southern Germany which is where they got their name. The Rottweiler was considered an all-rounder and was used for everything from protecting herds to service dogs (including police, ambulance, and guarding roles during World War I).
Check out our guide on Rottweilers.
5. Cane Corso
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Size: 58 - 70cm
Weight: 40 - 50kg
Character: Affectionate, majestic, intelligent
Colour: Black, Grey, Fawn, Red
Life Expectancy: 10 - 11 years
The Cane Corso breed is a descendent of ancient mastiff-type breeds that go back to Roman times. They are known for being strong, courageous and extremely loyal to their owners. Cane Corsos are natural watchdogs and are particularly popular in America.
Check out our guide on Cane Corsos.
Best Dog Breed for First-Time Owners
1. Labrador Retriever
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Size: 56 - 61cm
Weight: 29 - 36kg
Character: Outgoing, friendly, active, reliable
Colour: Black, Yellow, Chocolate
Life Expectancy: 10 - 12 years
Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world thanks to their friendly, gentle natures. Labradors can be traced to Canada (specifically, the easterly provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador) and were originally bred to retrieve nets for fishermen. Labs have always been known to be fantastic family pets as they would return home with the fisherman/ hunter in the evening.
Check out our guide on Labrador Retrievers.
2. Golden Retriever
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Size: 51 - 61cm
Weight: 29 - 34kg
Character: Devoted, friendly, intelligent, adaptable
Colour: Golden, Dark Golden, Light Golden
Life Expectancy: 10 - 12 years
The Golden Retriever breed was developed in the Scottish Highlands by the first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Marjoribanks, during the 1800s. The goal was to breed a retriever dog that suited rugged terrain and rainy climates. In 1908, the Golden Retriever was shown at a dog show and ever since the breed has been extremely popular. Golden Retrievers are known as social, adaptable and easy to train dogs.
Check out our guide on Golden Retrievers.
3. Poodle
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Size: 38+cm
Weight: 30 - 35kg
Character: Intelligent, active, proud, versatile
Colour: Black, Brown, Grey, Cream, Apricot, Red, White
Life Expectancy: 11 - 14 years
Poodles originated in Germany and started as retriever water dogs over 400 years ago. The poodle comes in 3 sizes and has a distinctive curly coat that helps to protect them from the elements and ensures a free range of movement when swimming. Poodles are elegant, easy to train, and natural entertainers. The poodle is one of the most intelligent breeds in the world and is a family-friendly choice.
Check out our guide on Poodles.
4. Bichon Frise
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Size: 23 - 28cm
Weight: 3 - 5kg
Character: Social, adaptable, easy to train, playful
Colour: White
Life Expectancy: 12 - 15 years
The Bichon Frise breed is one of the most popular family dogs in the world thanks to their adaptability, playfulness and affectionate natures. The Bichon is believed to originate from the Mediterranean and is often called the “Tenerife Dog” as sailors found them on the island in the 14th century. Bichon Frise dogs are confident, intelligent and love to be the centre of attention.
Check out our guide on Bichon Frises.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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Size: 30 - 33cm
Weight: 4 - 8kg
Character: Gentle, affectionate, graceful, friendly
Colour: Black & Tan, Blenheim (Chestnut & White), Ruby, Tricolour
Life Expectancy: 12 - 15 years
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are excellent for first-time owners as they are affectionate, loyal, and eager to please. The Cavaliers we know and love today are descendants of the Toy Spaniels that were popular with royalty in the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. The name of this small breed came from King Charles II who was always seen with 2 or 3 of these dogs with him.
Check out our guide on Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
Best Family Dogs (For Kids)
1. Newfoundland
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Size: 65 - 90cm
Weight: 54 - 68kg
Character: Patient, devoted, sweet
Colour: Black, Brown, Grey, White & Black
Life Expectancy: 8 - 10 years
Newfoundlands are popular family dogs with sweet tempers and a reputation for being excellent with children. The Newfoundland is one of the oldest breeds and originates from Canada where they were relied on by fishermen and specialised in water rescues. Newfoundlands are natural swimmers and it’s thought they were brought to Europe by fishermen in the 1800s.
Check out our guide on Newfoundlands.
2. Beagle
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Size: 33 - 41cm
Weight: 6 - 8kg
Character: Friendly, Curious
Colour: Black & Tan, Black Tan & White, Brown White & Tan, Tan & White, Lemon & White, Tricolour
Life Expectancy: 12 - 15 years
The Beagle is an ancient breed that has been a firm favourite for hunting activities for centuries. This sturdy dog was thought to be developed from English scent hounds and has proven to be a versatile family dog. Although they were originally a hunting breed, Beagles are an incredibly popular companion thanks to their affectionate, loyal natures.
Check out our guide on Beagles.
3. English Bulldog
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Size: 31 - 40cm
Weight: 24 - 25kg
Character: Calm, courageous, friendly, kind
Colour: Fawn, Red, White, Fallow, Brindle, Fawn & White, Red & White
Life Expectancy: 8 - 10 years
The ancestors of the English Bulldog were used for bull-baiting until the practice was outlawed in the 1800s. Since the 19th century, the breed has changed dramatically as breeders focused on creating amiable companions rather than ferocious ones. This has meant the distinctive English Bulldog has a good nature and is highly adaptable, making them excellent for families.
Check out our guide on English Bulldogs.
4. Cocker Spaniel
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Size: 28 - 41cm
Weight: 12 - 14kg
Character: Happy, intelligent, gentle,
Colour: Black, Black & Tan, Black & White, Chocolate, Chocolate & Tan, Chocolate & White, Golden, Lemon & White, Red, Red & White
Life Expectancy: 11 - 12 years
Originally developed as gun dogs, Cocker Spaniels have become extremely popular as all-around companions. Cocker Spaniels are one of the oldest dog breeds with records dating back to the 14th century. These Spaniels are sociable, adaptable, and good-natured making them well suited to family homes.
Check out our guide on Cocker Spaniels.
5. Hungarian Vizsla
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Size: 53 - 64cm
Weight: 20 - 30kg
Character: Gentle, energetic, affectionate, versatile
Colour: Golden Rust
Life Expectancy: 9 - 15 years
The origins of the Hungarian Vizsla are not fully known but their ancestors are believed to have been bred by Magyar warriors in Western Europe. Vizslas were bred to be all-purpose hunting dogs and as such, they are extremely versatile. Hungarian Vizslas are known to get along with children, excel in sports and form tight bonds with their families.
Check out our guide on Hungarian Vizslas.
Best Dog Breeds Full-Time Workers
1. Chow Chow
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Size: 43 - 51cm
Weight: 25 - 32kg
Character: Loyal, proud, independent
Colour: Black, Cream, Fawn, Red, White
Life Expectancy: 9 - 15 years
Chow Chows can be traced back as far as 206BC and have been used by everyone from hunters to guards throughout their history. Chow Chows only began to rise in popularity in the west in the late 1800s but are now popular pets. The Chow is a great choice for full-time workers as these dogs are independent and can tolerate time alone.
Check out our guide on Chow Chows.
2. Maltese
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Size: 20 - 25cm
Weight: 1 - 3kg
Character: Sweet, playful, charming, hardy
Colour: White
Life Expectancy: 12 - 15 years
Maltese are small, playful, and adaptable companions. The Maltese breed originates from Malta and is one of the most ancient breeds in the world. Since the early 14th century, the Maltese were popular dogs among royals and the wealthy. Adult Maltese can be left alone during the day and will welcome you warmly when you return home.
Check out our guide on Maltese dogs.
3. Dachshund
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Size: 20 - 27cm
Weight: 7 - 12kg
Character: Friendly, playful, curious, alert
Colour: Black & Cream, Black & Tan, Cream, Red, Fawn & Tan
Life Expectancy: 12 - 15 years
The Dachshund was bred in Germany around 600 years ago to assist with digging out badger dens. The breed also worked to hunt other animals and packs of Dachshunds were used on wild boar too. The Dachshund is an outgoing dog that is highly adaptable and is happy to spend time alone.
Check out our guide on Dachshunds.
4. Basset Hound
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Size: 28 - 38cm
Weight: 25 - 34kg
Character: Loyal, gentle, charming, patient
Colour: Black & White, Black White & Tan, Black White & Brown, Lemon & White, Red & White, Mahogany & White
Life Expectancy: 11 - 12 years
The instantly recognisable Basset Hound was originally bred in France and Belgium. Bassets were bred to be low-built scent hounds that could travel over rough terrain tracking deer and rabbits. Basset Hounds are talented trackers and were popular among French aristocrats who would hunt regularly. Bassets are wonderful family dogs, they have a calm, easy nature and can handle spending time alone.
Check out our guide on Basset Hounds.
5. Bedlington Terrier
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Size: 38 - 44cm
Weight: 32 - 54kg
Character: Loyal, playful, charming, alert
Colour: Blue, Blue & Tan, Liver, Liver & Tan, Sandy, Sandy & Tan
Life Expectancy: 12 - 14 years
Bedlington Terriers are confident dogs that are highly adaptable and will happily spend the day lounging while you’re at work. Bedlington Terriers were created in Northumberland and were used as ratters in coal mines and pit fighters. The breed became popular with British elites who discovered Bedlington Terriers to be loving and bighearted.
Check out our guide on Bedlington Terriers.
Best Dogs for Cuddling
1. Pomeranian
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Size: 13 - 28cm
Weight: 1 - 3kg
Character: Inquisitive, lively, bold, affectionate
Colour: Black, Black & Tan, Blue, Chocolate, Orange, Cream, Red, White, Tri-Coloured, Sable
Life Expectancy: 12 - 16 years
Pomeranians are small spitz-type dogs that were developed in the region between Germany and Poland called Pomerania. The Pomeranian has long been a favourite among royals and its popularity is largely due to Queen Victoria who was a breeder and exhibitor of the breed. Pomeranians are affectionate, love to be the centre of attention, and form strong bonds with their families.
Check out our guide on Pomeranians.
2. Chihuahua
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Size: 15 - 25cm
Weight: 1 - 2.5kg
Character: Charming, sassy, adaptable, intelligent
Colour: Black, Chocolate, Chocolate, Tan, Fawn, Red, Cream,
Life Expectancy: 12 - 16 years
Chihuahuas are hardy little dogs that can be traced back a thousand years to Mexico. These dogs lived in remote villages and were often sold to tourists and travellers in the 1800s which led to their popularity across the world. Chihuahuas are affectionate, entertaining and love to be with their family.
Check out our guide on Chihuahuas.
3. Pug
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Size: 25 - 35cm
Weight: 6 - 8kg
Character: Charming, mischievous, loving
Colour: Black, Fawn
Life Expectancy: 12 - 14 years
The Pug breed can be traced back 2,000 years and was a favourite with emperors of ancient China. Pugs were seen elsewhere around the world in the 1500s when Dutch traders brought this breed back to Europe with them. Pugs are small, sturdy dogs, they make great family pets and love to be around children.
Check out our guide on Pugs.
4. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
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Size: 25 - 30cm
Weight: 9 - 19kg
Character: Affectionate, alert, smart
Colour: Black & Tan, Fawn, Red, Sable
Life Expectancy: 12 - 14 years
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi was originally bred to herd cattle and sheep and has been a separate breed from the Cardigan Welsh Corgi since the 1800s. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are very popular and Elizabeth II is one of the most famous fans since she got her first one in 1933. These Corgis love people and never say no to a cuddle.
Check out our guide on Pembroke Welsh Corgis.
5. Greyhound
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Size: 68 - 71cm
Weight: 27 - 40kg
Character: Gentle, independent, noble
Colour: Black, Blue Fawn, Blue, Blue Brindle, Red, Red Brindle, White & Black, White & Red, Brindle
Life Expectancy: 9 - 11 years
Greyhounds can be traced back 5,000 years to Egypt when they were used to detect, chase, and capture wildlife. In the UK, Greyhounds were used for hare coursing and later for racing. This breed is athletic but also affectionate and loyal making them ideal family dogs.
Check out our guide on Greyhounds.
Best Dogs Based On Smarts
1. Border Collie
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Size: 46 - 56cm
Weight: 14 - 20kg
Character: Energetic, smart, affectionate
Colour: Black & White, Brown & White, Cream, Gold, Red, Slate, Merle, Sable, Tricolour
Life Expectancy: 10 - 14 years
Border Collies are frequently listed as the smartest dog breed in the world. They were bred for herding sheep and the Border Collie breed was first mentioned in 1873 during dog trials in North Wales. Border Collies are known as hardworking, intelligent dogs, they can be found working in countries around the world and are also popular family pets.
Check out our guide on Border Collies.
2. Shetland Sheepdog
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Size: 33 - 44cm
Weight: 7 - 11kg
Character: Energetic, playful, bright, intelligent
Colour: Black, Blue Merle, Sable
Life Expectancy: 12 - 14 years
Originating from the Shetland Islands in Scotland, Shetland Sheepdogs are agile herding dogs. Shetland Sheepdogs are smaller than collies and the breed was virtually unknown in the rest of Britain until the early 20th century. Over the years Shetland Sheepdogs have become popular family dogs and are popular in the show-ring too.
Check out our guide on Shetland Sheepdogs.
3. English Springer Spaniel
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Size: 43 - 51cm
Weight: 23 - 25kg
Character: Obedient, friendly, playful
Colour: Black & White, Black White & Tan, Liver & White, Liver White & Tan
Life Expectancy: 12 - 14 years
Springer Spaniels are the oldest of Britain's gundogs and have a long history of working with hunters to detect and flush out game birds. English and Welsh Springer Spaniels were exhibited as the same breed until 1902 when they were recognised as separate breeds. Springers are intelligent, obedient, and have a keen sense of smell which has led to them being used in K9 detection work.
Check out our guide on English Springer Spaniels.
4. Papillon
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Size: 20 - 28cm
Weight: 3 - 4kg
Character: Friendly, happy, alert, curious
Colour: White & Black, White & Lemon, White & Red, White & Sable, White Black & Tan
Life Expectancy: 13 - 15 years
Papillons were originally bred in Renaissance times as companions for noblewomen. These lap dogs are charming, attentive and faithful. Papillons like to have something to do and respond well to training.
Check out our guide to Papillons.
5. Australian Cattle Dog
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Size: 43 - 51cm
Weight: 15 - 22kg
Character: Alert, curious, courageous, intelligent
Colour: Blue, Blue Mottled, Blue Speckled, Red Speckled, Red Mottled
Life Expectancy: 12 - 14 years
Australian Cattle Dogs were developed during the 1800s and are a cross between Dingos, Kelpies, Dalmations, and Bull Terriers. The breed was developed for herding in extreme conditions and difficult terrains. Australian Cattle Dogs are extremely popular in Australia and have developed a following in the UK too. They are very intelligent and thrive when given a job to do.
Check out our guide to Australian Cattle Dogs.
Whatever dog you are looking for, there will be the perfect match out there. Found the right breed for you? Use Puppies to help you find a healthy puppy from a responsible breeder. Always take care when looking for a new dog, to help make the process easier and safer all listings on our site are checked against a fraud database.
