Looking for a dog that’ll love you forever, protect you from delivery drivers, and occasionally judge your life choices? Look no further! These 15 breeds are the absolute best—each in their own way. Whether you’re a couch potato or an adventure junkie, there’s a furry soulmate out there for you.
But let’s be real: no dog is perfect. Here’s our lovingly honest rundown of the top dog breeds, including how much they’ll set you back in North America (if you must buy one). If possible: Adopt, don’t shop! Rescue dogs are MVPs and deserve all the love!
1. Labrador Retriever
- Why They’re Awesome: Labs are basically golden retrievers without the fluff but with all the love. Friendly, loyal, and great with kids.
- Con: Their tails are weapons of mass destruction for coffee tables.
- Price: $800–$2,000
2. German Shepherd
- Why They’re Awesome: The ultimate protector. They’ll guard your house and your heart.
- Con: They’re way smarter than you and know it.
- Price: $1,500–$3,500
3. Golden Retriever
- Why They’re Awesome: Walking sunshine with fur. They’ll love you, your family, and that weird neighbor.
- Con: They shed enough to make a second dog.
- Price: $1,000–$3,000
4. French Bulldog
- Why They’re Awesome: Compact, adorable, and chill. They’re like the hipsters of the dog world.
- Con: They sound like Darth Vader after two flights of stairs.
- Price: $2,000–$8,000 (yes, really)
5. Border Collie
- Why They’re Awesome: Smart enough to solve math problems and will definitely herd your kids.
- Con: Their energy level is not for the faint of heart. Hope you like running!
- Price: $800–$2,500
6. Poodle (Standard, Miniature, or Toy)
- Why They’re Awesome: Hypoallergenic, brainy, and weirdly good at looking fancy.
- Con: High-maintenance doesn’t even begin to cover their grooming needs.
- Price: $1,500–$5,000
7. Boxer
- Why They’re Awesome: These goofy bundles of love are super loyal and great with kids.
- Con: Their energy can turn your living room into a demolition zone.
- Price: $800–$2,000
8. Chihuahua
- Why They’re Awesome: Small but mighty. They’ll fit in your bag and rule your house.
- Con: Their bark is the definition of "Nap? Never heard of her."
- Price: $500–$2,000
9. Siberian Husky
- Why They’re Awesome: Gorgeous, athletic, and full of personality. Basically the supermodels of the dog world.
- Con: They’ll escape your backyard faster than Houdini.
- Price: $600–$2,000
10. Dachshund
- Why They’re Awesome: Cute, cuddly, and surprisingly brave for a dog that’s half a foot tall.
- Con: They’ll bark at a leaf falling three blocks away.
- Price: $500–$2,500
11. Great Dane
- Why They’re Awesome: Gentle giants that think they’re lap dogs.
- Con: They’ll eat your wallet—both literally and figuratively.
- Price: $1,500–$3,000
12. Shih Tzu
- Why They’re Awesome: Little bundles of fluff that are surprisingly chill.
- Con: Their grooming bill might rival your rent.
- Price: $500–$2,500
13. Rottweiler
- Why They’re Awesome: Loyal, protective, and total sweethearts when they love you.
- Con: Their RBF (Resting Bark Face) terrifies everyone, even when they’re just vibing.
- Price: $1,500–$3,000
14. Beagle
- Why They’re Awesome: Adorable, friendly, and their noses can find anything.
- Con: That same nose will lead them straight into trouble every time.
- Price: $500–$1,500
15. Bernese Mountain Dog
- Why They’re Awesome: Fluffy cuddle machines that are great with families.
- Con: They’re 80% fur, 20% drool. Hope you own a vacuum.
- Price: $1,000–$2,500
Why Not Adopt?
We get it—buying a specific breed is tempting, but adopting or rescuing is where it’s really at. Shelters and rescue organizations are full of loving dogs waiting for their forever homes, often for a fraction of the cost. Plus, you’re saving a life—and that’s priceless.
Pro tip: Check out breed-specific rescues if your heart’s set on a certain type. You might find your dream dog without the hefty price tag!
