[BullyBabe]

My friend is looking to adopt a puppy, but she has never had a dog before. I love Bulldogs, Pitbulls and mixes, but she is afraid of them due to the bad, unfair reputation they have. She likes my dogs, who are just big softies, but is worried about having one herself. I’ve tried to convince her that these breeds are so loving. She is willing to consider a Frenchie, but I know they have health issues. So, since I’m a bit biased towards Bully breeds, we need some help deciding on other breeds to consider. So, what’s the best breed for someone who has never had a dog before?

[Tara Maurer]

It’s great that your friend is open to adopting a dog and that you’re helping her find the right fit! While Bulldogs and Pitbulls can be amazing companions, it’s understandable that she wants to start with a breed she feels comfortable with. Since she’s considering a French Bulldog, but you’re concerned about health issues, there are other beginner-friendly breeds that might be a good fit.

-Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Super affectionate, low exercise needs, and easygoing. They’re great for first-time owners who want a cuddly companion.
-Golden Retriever: Friendly, eager to please, and easy to train. They do need exercise, but they’re incredibly forgiving for new owners.
-Labrador Retriever: Similar to Goldens, Labs are loving, intelligent, and adaptable. They need exercise and training but are wonderful for beginners.
-Bichon Frise: Small, hypoallergenic, and very social. They love people and are easy to train.
-Pug: If she likes the look of a Frenchie but wants fewer health concerns, Pugs are a great option. They’re playful, affectionate, and don’t require intense training.
-Mixed Breeds (From a Rescue!): A medium-sized, mixed-breed dog with a friendly temperament can be a fantastic choice. Many shelters can help match her with a dog that suits her lifestyle.

It sounds like she already likes your dogs, so that’s a great start! If she’s open to it, spending more time with well-trained Bulldogs, Pitties, or mixes might help her see their gentle side firsthand. She could also look into Boxers—they have a similar build but don’t carry the same stigma and are known for being playful and loving.

At the end of the day, the best breed is one that matches her lifestyle, comfort level, and willingness to train and care for a dog. If she’s unsure, she could even consider fostering to get a feel for different breeds before committing. What kind of energy level and lifestyle does she have? That might help narrow it down even more!

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