When you’re looking for a pup as a single guy, you have a few factors to consider. You want a dog that isn’t difficult to train or care for, and it’s best to find one that fits your lifestyle.
We understand the dilemma, but the good news is that there are plenty of great breeds for you to pick from! With that in mind, we’ve highlighted 12 of our favorite dogs for single guys to check out here!
Top 12 Dog Breeds for Single Guys
1. Labrador Retriever
| Origin: | United Kingdom, Newfoundland |
| Lifespan: | 10 to 12 years |
| Height: | 22 to 24 inches |
Who doesn’t love a Labrador Retriever? They’re incredibly affectionate dogs, and they’re great for beginners who haven’t had a dog before. They’re energetic enough to keep up with you when they’re outside, but they don’t have so much energy that they’re constantly dragging you outside.
Even better, they love just about everyone, so if you’re thinking of having people over or even introducing them to other pets, you shouldn’t have too many issues. Finally, they’re big dogs but aren’t intimidating. No matter how you look at it, they’re great pups!
2. Golden Retriever
| Origin: | Scotland |
| Lifespan: | 10 to 12 years |
| Height: | 20 to 24 inches |
If you’re looking for a dog that will help you make new friends, good luck finding one better than a Golden Retriever. They’re insanely adorable, and while they’re large dogs, they’re unlikely to scare neighbors or visitors.
They’re also among the friendliest dog breeds on the planet, happily enjoying attention from whoever wants to give it to them. Like the Labrador Retriever, the Golden Retriever doesn’t have so much energy that they’re constantly begging for time outside, but they’re not lazy either!
3. American Pitbull Terrier
| Origin: | United Kingdom, United States |
| Lifespan: | 8 to 15 years |
| Height: | 18 to 21 inches |
Although American Pitbull Terriers have a tough appearance and reputation, they’re just loveable giants! They want as much attention as you’re willing to give them, and they’re ideal for single owners.
Another perk is that they’re not as energetic as other big canines but still require daily walks and play sessions. They love playing games like fetch, and most Pitbull Terriers form strong bonds with their owners.
4. French Bulldog
| Origin: | Great Britain, France |
| Lifespan: | 10 to 12 years |
| Height: | 11 to 13 inches |
Just because you’re a single guy doesn’t mean you need a really big dog. Smaller dogs are perfect for single guys, and the French Bulldog leads the pack.
They might be smaller, but they have an adorably tough appearance. Their smaller size also makes them uniquely suited for apartment dwellers, and they’re a great choice if you don’t want a pup that requires extensive exercise.
You’ll still need to take them out for walks, but compared to larger dogs, it’s easier to meet their exercise needs.
5. Boxer
| Origin: | Germany |
| Lifespan: | 10 to 12 years |
| Height: | 21 to 25 inches |
As a large dog with a fierce appearance, the Boxer is a great choice for single men. Although boxers are larger dogs, they don’t have the same energy levels as other big pups. They’re active enough to enjoy their time outside but not so active that they’ll drive you nuts if you don’t take them out for several hours each day. However, they’re pretty active as puppies.
With proper socialization, they can get along great with strangers, but you should be careful around other dogs. Socialization is critical, so they’re not always the best choice for first-time dog owners.
6. Siberian Husky
| Origin: | Siberia |
| Lifespan: | 12 to 15 years |
| Height: | 20 to 24 inches |
With a big personality and gorgeous appearance, the Siberian Husky will make an impression when you take them out on the town. Keep in mind that many Siberian Huskies have beautiful blue eyes, but that’s not a trait every Siberian Husky has.
They’re also a higher-energy breed, so ensure you have the space and time to get them out as much as they need before you bring one home. The Siberian Husky will become a trusted companion that will quickly turn into your best friend, and if a roommate or partner joins you, they should get along great with them, too!
7. Doberman Pinscher
| Origin: | Germany |
| Lifespan: | 10 to 13 years |
| Height: | 25 to 28 inches |
The Doberman Pinscher is yet another large breed that’s great for single men. They are loyal to their owners and are very protective, so you’ll need to socialize them early on, or you could run into problems.
Overall, they make great family dogs, but they don’t always get along well with other dog breeds. Early socialization can help, but sometimes, they’re simply better suited to being an only dog.
8. German Shepherd
| Origin: | Germany |
| Lifespan: | 9 to 13 years |
| Height: | 22 to 26 inches |
The German Shepherd might be a beautiful and intelligent dog, but they’re not always the best choice for first-time dog owners. They’re intelligent and can be stubborn during training, but with proper socialization, you can tame their temperament so that they get along with everyone.
They’re incredibly beautiful dogs, and if you can properly care for them, you’ll get a lot of attention when you go for a walk. Just ensure you have plenty of space for them because they have higher energy levels that can be tough to meet.
9. English Bulldog
| Origin: | United Kingdom |
| Lifespan: | 8 to 10 years |
| Height: | 12 to 16 inches |
The English Bulldog is a smaller dog that can live in an apartment with ease. Although they’re smaller, they’re not too small, and their Bulldog appearance more than makes up for their size.
With proper training, they get along with everyone. While they need time outside, they won’t make you spend hours walking and running with them. They’re the perfect lapdog and companion for single men.
10. Mastiff
| Origin: | Great Britain |
| Lifespan: | 6 to 12 years |
| Height: | 28 to 36 inches |
You’re not going to find a dog much bigger than the Mastiff. They’re massive dogs that have the personalities to match. If you have enough room for them, they’re amazing companions, and they don’t need as much exercise as other large breeds.
We don’t recommend them for first-time dog owners simply because of their massive size. They’re great pups, but small training mistakes can turn into really big problems with a dog this size!
11. Border Collie
| Origin: | United Kingdom |
| Lifespan: | 12 to 15 years |
| Height: | 18 to 22 inches |
Border Collies are among the most intelligent dogs on the planet, which means they require extensive training. They’re higher-energy dogs with strong herding instincts, but they’re perfect for active, single men.
They need 1 ½ to 2 hours of daily exercise, and they’re better suited to a more active lifestyle. Still, when it comes to teaching them tricks, the Border Collie can learn just about anything you can throw at them! They’re also fond of canine sports, and you may find that your pup is a champ on agility courses.
12. Vizsla
| Origin: | Hungary |
| Lifespan: | 12 to 15 years |
| Height: | 21 to 25 inches |
If you’re looking for a lesser-known canine, the Vizsla might be just what you’re looking for. They’re a sporting breed at heart, perfect for the outdoorsman who wants a dog that can keep up.
Just keep in mind that they are very high-energy dogs, so if you can’t get them out and about, they can develop behavioral and physical problems. They’re great pups for the right person, but if you’re looking for a dog that will settle down and keep you inside, the Vizsla isn’t it.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a dog to help you connect with other people or a pup to serve as a loving companion when you’re home alone, the ideal pet may be on our list! Most of the dogs we discussed are relatively easy to train, but the German Shepherd and Border Collie are better suited to experienced owners.
Take your time to find a dog that fits your lifestyle, and you’ll undoubtedly spend several happy years together.
Featured Image Credit: Gorodenkoff, Shutterstock
