Giant breeds like Saint Bernard, English Mastiff, Irish Wolfhound and Great Dane are among the largest dogs, often towering over most household pets. When choosing a giant breed, make sure you’ve got the space they need, and be prepared for extra food and exercise requirements. Giant breeds can also be more prone to certain health issues related to their size, so chat to your vet about any potential concerns so you know what to expect and how to keep them comfortable as they grow.

The smallest dog breeds are toy and miniature types like the Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier or Papillon. These pint-sized companions are super cute and portable, and don’t require much space so are perfect for apartment living.

Intelligence in dogs is measured by how they learn, problem-solve, and respond to training. Breeds commonly recognised at the top of the class include the Border Collie, Poodle, German Shepherd and Golden Retriever. Smart dogs thrive with mental stimulation and training, so if you pick a highly intelligent breed, be ready to invest time in them.

No dog is truly non-shedding, however some breeds shed far less or have coat types that reduce loose fur. These include the Poodle (and cross-breeds like the Cavoodle and Groodle), as well as the Bichon Frise and Maltese. When choosing a dog breed, check their coat type, grooming needs and whether you or someone in your household has allergies.

The “best” dog breed for a family depends on your activity level, space, children’s ages, and how much time you can dedicate to training. Breeds often cited as family-friendly include the Golden Retriever, Cavoodle, Labrador and Cavalier King Charles. Look for a dog with a gentle temperament, moderate energy level and good socialisation – regardless of breed.

“Hypoallergenic” means a dog breed is less likely to trigger allergies due to minimal shedding or coat-type. Poodles, Bichon Frise and Schnauzers are often near the top of the list in the hypoallergenic category. If you or someone in your home has allergies, spend time with the breed in question, ask breeders for shed and dander information, and check their grooming requirements – low-shedding breeds can still be high maintenance.