Dog Breeds by Good For Novice Owners

Good For Novice Owners refers to how a dog typically behaves or responds in everyday situations. Individual dogs may vary based on training, environment, and genetics.

Some dogs are simply easier than others: they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies. Dogs who are highly sensitive, independent thinking, or assertive may be harder for a first-time owner to manage. You'll get your best match if you take your dog-owning experience into account as you choose your new pooch.

Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier is a small yet spirited breed, celebrated for its lively character. In the 1700s, breeders started developing what we now know as the Scottish Terrier, originally calling it the Aberdeen Terrier after a town in Scotland. The breed was affectionately dubbed the “little diehard” by the fourth Earl of Dumbarton, a nickname that still resonates today. Though they are petite, these dogs are brimming with bravery and vitality. Initially bred to hunt rabbits, otters, foxes, and badgers, Scottish Terriers continue to excel as vigilant watchdogs and devoted companions.

Chinook

The Chinook is a breed that is uniquely American in its heritage. Its beginnings can be traced to a female Northern Husky and a dog from the Arctic region. The father was of mixed lineage, and the resulting puppy, which was eventually named Chinook, did not closely resemble either of its parents; over time, this name became synonymous with the breed itself. Interestingly, the Chinook is believed to have been part of Admiral Byrd’s 1927 expedition to the South Pole, where it reportedly achieved remarkable records in terms of time, distance, and load capacity during the early 20th century. Today, thanks to the commitment of a small group of passionate breeders, the Chinook remains a rare breed.