What big dog would be ok for a first time owner?

[Anonymous]

I've never owned a dog before but here are some things about me:

• I've socialized with and handled different dog breeds. My favorite one was a female GSP.
• I like going outside and exercising a lot. I hate the traditional ''stay at home often'' lifestyle. I'm generally a very active person.
• I do have a small garden and a park just a couple blocks away.
• Overall very sociable person that makes friends easier than others

For a future first time dog owner (and a very active person), what big dog would you say it's best suitable for me?

[Prettygurl12]

What do you consider big? I have a 60 lb golden retriever but I don't know if I'd say she's big. I typically think "big" dogs are like the Great Danes, Great Pyrenees, St. Bernards, etc., but I also know people who think my dog is huge.

I would suggest you be really honest with yourself about your lifestyle and do a lot of research into what dog breeds would be good.

Like, for example, I think German Shepherds are beautiful dogs but I don't think my lifestyle would be best for a GSD, ya know?

[abc3643]

None.
You need to understand the costs involved and be prepared for that and I don't think you are.
If you want your dog to have a healthy lifestyle too, expect to spend about $2500/year. Good dog food is not cheap - it's more expensive per pound than chicken. Throw in shots and other vet visits and also all the other factors that will cost money, and that's a lot.

My advice is adopt a senior dog and get used to dog ownership and what it entails.

As for selecting a breed, tell us your living situation... That is critical.
Do you own a home?
If so, is your yard fenced in?
Do you have kids or a SO?
Are you in a city? Suburbs? Rural setting?

[josephinelcajon]

Lab black if you love water gold if not is the best social dog.

[Asker]

Thank you. Yeah I love swimming too.

[josephinelcajon]

Black lab for sure they love to swim will even dive for things at the bottom of a pool. They are easy going with all other animals and people and easy to train

[dolemite89]

a retriever or lab would be pretty good

[Danny_dan92]

Golden retriever

[Asker]

Cool