Choosing the right breed is not a matter of aesthetics: it means choosing a lifestyle for the next 10–15 years. A Border Collie needs 2 hours of mental exercise a day; an English Bulldog is perfectly happy with two short walks. Knowing who you are bringing home is the first step towards a happy life together.
Here are the 10 most popular dog breeds in Italy according to ENCI 2024–2025 data, with their characteristics, real-life needs and who they are best suited to.
1. Labrador Retriever
Size: large (25–36 kg) · Average lifespan: 10–12 years
The ultimate family dog. Cheerful, well-balanced and patient with children. Originally bred as a retriever: loves water, fetching objects and eating (watch out for weight gain).
Best suited to: active families, first-time dog owners, families with children.
Needs: 1–2 hours of exercise a day, consistent training, diet management.
2. German Shepherd
Size: large (22–40 kg) · Average lifespan: 9–13 years
Exceptionally intelligent, legendarily loyal. A working dog by nature: needs a job (dog sports, agility, search and rescue). Tends to bond deeply with one family.
Best suited to: experienced owners, those who can dedicate quality time to them.
Needs: daily mental stimulation, hip dysplasia monitoring (breed predisposition), plenty of space.
3. Golden Retriever
Size: large (25–34 kg) · Average lifespan: 10–12 years
"The eternal puppy": gentle, sociable with everyone, rarely aggressive. Well suited as a pet therapy dog. Long coat requires daily brushing.
Best suited to: families with young children, those looking for a highly sociable dog.
Needs: 1–2 hours of exercise, coat care, cardiac monitoring in older age.
4. French Bulldog
Size: small (8–14 kg) · Average lifespan: 10–12 years
The ideal companion for city living. Calm, fairly laid-back and loves to sleep. Brachycephalic breed: extra care needed in hot weather (never leave them in the sun in summer) and close attention to breathing.
Best suited to: apartment living, singles, less active individuals.
Needs: short, cool walks, frequent respiratory and dermatological check-ups.
5. Border Collie
Size: medium (14–22 kg) · Average lifespan: 12–15 years
Widely regarded as the most intelligent dog in the world. Boundless energy and a constant need to work. Not recommended for apartment living or for those who do not practise dog sports.
Best suited to: very active people, sports enthusiasts, those with access to countryside or open spaces.
Needs: 2+ hours of exercise + mental stimulation (puzzle games, agility, disc dog).
6. Australian Shepherd
Size: medium (16–32 kg) · Average lifespan: 12–15 years
Similar to the Border Collie but slightly less "intense". Extremely athletic, loves to work and thrives on challenges.
Best suited to: outdoor enthusiasts, sports lovers, active families with experience.
Needs: plenty of exercise, varied activities, not suited to a sedentary lifestyle.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Size: small (5–8 kg) · Average lifespan: 9–14 years
A true "lap dog": affectionate, calm and adaptable. Does not cope well with being alone for too many hours.
Best suited to: retirees, people who work from home, apartment living.
Needs: cardiac check-ups (predisposed to mitral valve disease), plenty of company.
8. Jack Russell Terrier
Size: small (5–7 kg) · Average lifespan: 13–16 years
Small in size only: true terrier temperament — digs, barks and hunts. Not a couch dog: needs to be kept busy.
Best suited to: active, experienced owners; not ideal for households with rabbits or other small animals.
Needs: 1–2 hours of exercise + problem-solving games.
9. Pug
Size: small (6–8 kg) · Average lifespan: 12–15 years
Comical, affectionate and full of personality. Brachycephalic breed: the same precautions as for the French Bulldog apply.
Best suited to: apartment living, calm families, elderly owners.
Needs: regular cleaning of facial folds, weight management, avoid heat.
10. Beagle
Size: medium (10–14 kg) · Average lifespan: 12–15 years
A nose that works 24/7. Lively, sociable and prone to barking. Loves food and tends to put on weight.
Best suited to: families with a garden, keen walkers, neighbourhoods tolerant of barking.
Needs: 1–2 hours of scent-based walking, a secure enclosed space (an accomplished escape artist).
How to choose the right breed for you
Before falling in love with a dog's appearance, ask yourself these questions:
- How much time can I dedicate to them each day?
- Do I live in an apartment, a house or the countryside?
- Do I have young children or elderly people at home?
- Am I sporty or more sedentary?
- Do I already have experience with dogs?
- Can I afford recurring veterinary costs (some breeds have expensive predispositions)?
Pedigree vs mixed breed
Rescue mixed-breed dogs are often healthier (genetic heterosis) and just as wonderful as pedigree dogs. If this is your first dog, seriously consider adoption: Italian shelters are home to over 80,000 dogs waiting for a family.
Once you have made your choice, also read our guides on positive training and puppy vaccinations.
