Top Dog Breeds for Any Lifestyle, According to a Vet—And One Tops Them All

Newsweek

13-05-2025

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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Bringing a dog into your life can spark a world of joy, energy, and companionship—but finding the right fit for your lifestyle is crucial. Every breed comes with its own quirks and needs: some thrive with room to roam, others settle happily into apartment living; some crave constant engagement, while others are content with quiet routines.
Among the many options, one breed consistently stands out for its versatility: the golden retriever.
According to the American Kennel Club, golden retrievers are not just friendly—they're deeply loyal and eager to please, qualities that make them easy to train and quick to bond with families of all types.
"They're the quintessential dog," says Dr. Carly Fox, senior veterinarian at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center's emergency and urgent care service. Speaking to Newsweek, she described the breed as "man's best friend to the end."
Whether you're an active adventurer or someone who prefers slow mornings and calm evenings, golden retrievers have a remarkable ability to adapt—and to bring heart into any home.
Golden retrievers are often recommended by vets as the ideal breed for a wide range of lifestyles, thanks to their adaptability, loyalty, and easygoing temperament.
Golden retrievers are often recommended by vets as the ideal breed for a wide range of lifestyles, thanks to their adaptability, loyalty, and easygoing temperament.
Wolfgang Kumm/picture-alliance/dpa/AP Images
Fox said that these dogs are fairly adaptable to different lifestyles, and emotionally in tune with their owners. Ideally, they should receive one or two hours of exercise a day, be around people often, and have several avenues for mental stimulation, like obedience training, puzzles, or scent work.
However, Fox added that goldens can develop significant orthopedic disease if overweight, so keeping them slim is a must.
"For these reasons, I would place them in the 'versatile' category to moderately active lifestyle," she said.
The AKC says that, as intelligent and affectionate companions, golden retrievers make great pets for families with children. Like any breed, early socialization and puppy training are important for their development.
Giving them enough exercise and mental stimulation can help prevent misbehavior. While they can make excellent companions on long runs, hikes, and bike rides, they also thrive in calmer spaces, as long as they get their daily walks.
Other Easily Adaptable Dog Breeds
Other easily adaptable dogs, according to Dr. Todd East, veterinary affairs director, Royal Canin North America, include Labrador retrievers and poodles.
He told Newsweek that you are equally likely to find a Labrador retriever jumping off a dock, as you are curled up at your feet snoring.
"These dogs are used in a variety of jobs from hunting to service. Their drive to please is unmatched in the breed world, which makes them one of the most adaptable breeds out there."
As for poodles, he explains that besides being fairly versatile, they also have the added benefit of being less allergenic than other breeds.
"The poodle is one of my favorite patients from a veterinary point of view, especially the standards, due to their calm demeanor, heightened intelligence and just being easy to examine. They have high trainability, making them an adaptable breed."
Mix-breed dogs, also make pretty adaptable breeds, and are able to thrive in a variety of diverse environments.
Dogs That Fit in Your Active Lifestyle
If you lead an active lifestyle, you may want to look for dog breeds that are more in tune with your needs.
Dr. Ashly Smith, veterinarian at Small Door Veterinary, told Newsweek that in this case, breeds like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Vizslas are probably the most well-suited for you.
"These breeds were originally developed for work like herding or hunting, so they have high energy levels, sharp intelligence, and a need for regular physical and mental stimulation.
Border Collies are a top choice for active owners, with vets recommending the breed for its high energy,
Border Collies are a top choice for active owners, with vets recommending the breed for its high energy,
Patrick Pleul/Picture-alliance/dpa/AP Images
"Without adequate exercise, they can become bored or develop behavioral issues. They thrive in homes where daily runs, hikes, or advanced training are part of the routine," Smith said.
East added that breeds like German shepherds, often employed by the military or the police for their impressive stature and intelligence, and German short-haired pointers, which were originally bred for sport, can also make a great addition to an active lifestyle.
Dogs That Thrive in a More Relaxed Environment
If you are specifically looking for the "couch potato" type of canine companion, bulldogs, both English and French, according to East, will definitely make worthy candidates.
"Based on their short legs, stocky stature and a short muzzle with tiny nostrils, these dogs are not physically built for an active lifestyle. These breeds would rather be curled up next to you on the couch than outside chasing squirrels," he said.
Despite their size, mastiffs are also a laid-back breed who enjoy spending time chilling at home with their owners. If you are looking for a dog that is on the smaller side, a pug would also make a great choice.
"These dogs are perfect for the lap, so long as you can deal with a bit of snoring," East added.
Basset hounds and cavalier King Charles spaniels are a great match for a more chilled lifestyle, according to Smith.
"These dogs tend to have lower energy requirements and are content with shorter walks and lots of cuddle time," she said.
"That said, 'lazy' doesn't mean no exercise. These dogs still benefit from regular activity to maintain a healthy weight and prevent joint problems, especially if they are prone to orthopedic issues."
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