Estimated read time: 5-6 minutes
In a report that some might call shocking, U.S. News reported the chihuahua is the most popular dog breed in the United States. Though the little canines might be touted as yippy and nippy (which can be true), they steal the hearts of Americans with their loyal nature and tiny frames.
In Utah, the goldendoodle was top dog, followed by the chihuahua, the Shih Tzu, the golden retriever and the French bulldog.
The personality or cute faces of individual dogs are often the deciding factors in choosing which companion to adopt, but your lifestyle and your location should also be factored into your decision.
Utahns should consider these dog breeds as good pets when choosing which furry friend to bring home.
For those who love hiking
Utah is an outdoorsman's paradise. From the red rocks of Moab to the aspens of the Wasatch Mountains, finding a dog that can keep up and enjoy long days in nature is essential. If you love to live outside with your pet, consider getting an Australian shepherd or a German shorthaired pointer.
The American Kennel Club recommends these breeds because they're intelligent, adventurous and have high energy.
Be sure to check your local shelter or classifieds section to find an active dog in need of a home today.
For those who have an active family
If you enjoy the outdoors with the whole family, getting a dog that enjoys the outdoors and also gets along with kids and other pets is important.
Finding breeds that are sweet, high-energy, and trainable is a good place to start for active families. Rover suggests getting an Irish setter or a vizsla.
The setters are larger dogs with beautiful hair, but they also stand out as outgoing and sweet-natured pups. The beautiful canines are great for families who have a big backyard or lots of land, as they need ample space to run around. Setters are high energy dogs who need lots of activity — a perfect companion for the active family.
Vizslas are energetic, affectionate and gentle which are all excellent qualities for a family dog. They also require a lot of exercise and stimulation, so bring them with you on your hikes and trips to the park!
Both breeds need training, so be prepared to invest your time in teaching your pup proper manners (and tricks!).
Families in general
A 2021 report shared by Statista shows that Utah is leading the nation in average family size. (Shocking!) Because there are so many families in the Beehive State, choosing a dog that fits in with your human family members is vital for everyone's wellbeing — including that of the dog..
In addition to the popular and obvious breeds (labradors and golden retrievers), some other pups you might not otherwise consider as typical family dogs are excellent around children.
The American Kennel Club lists Cavalier King Charles spaniel, bichon frise, collies and beagles as good picks for households with kids. There's a dog in every size available on their list, so if you prefer smaller pups without high energy demands, like a bichon frise, there's a breed for you.
Warm weather climates
If you live in southern Utah where it's mild to hot year-round, getting a dog who adapts well to heat is critical for their health and comfort.
To keep your pet happy in warmer climates, consider getting a chihuahua, a Yorkshire terrier, dalmatian or Italian greyhound. The Spruce Pets lists these breeds as good hot-weather dogs because they typically have short hair and thin coats. Even though Yorkies have longer hair, it is a fine texture that doesn't trap heat.
You might find these dogs gravitating to the sunny patio or backyard on a warm day to enjoy the heat. Be sure to give them ample water and plenty of breaks inside to cool off.
Renters
If you're renting a home or apartment and want to get a dog, be sure to read your lease first. Many pet-friendly apartments and townhomes have breed restrictions, so getting a dog that is allowed to live with you should be your first thought.
According to Rent.com, commonly restricted dogs can include, Akitas, bulldogs, chows, Dobermans, German shepherds, pit bulls and wolf hybrids.
For those currently living in apartments, there are lots of breeds that do well in smaller and shared spaces. Here are a few:
- Bichon frise
- Cavalier king Charles spaniel
- Greyhound
- Havanese
- Japanese spitz
- Maltese
- Pug
- Shih Tzu
The American Kennel Club has a full list on their website.
It's important to remember that your dog should be well-socialized so it will behave down shared hallways and elevators in apartment buildings. Be sure to find local off-leash areas where your pup can run around and enjoy the outdoors.
Siegfried & Jensen
Since 1990, Siegfried & Jensen have been helping the people of Utah and surrounding states who have suffered needless injuries and death caused by car accidents, truck accidents, medical malpractice, defective drugs, dog bites, wrongful death, and other types of personal injury.
The firm is committed to keeping Utah families and communities safe by ensuring wrongdoers are held accountable. While a lawsuit isn't always the answer when it is needed having someone on your side can mean the difference between declaring bankruptcy and rebuilding your life and moving forward, especially when you're up against an insurance company or a hospital.
Siegfried & Jensen has represented more than 35,000 clients and recovered over $1.2 billion for them.
