Guide to Caring For Different Dog Temperaments

There are over 30 breeds of dogs that have originated in England and have been bred for a variety of purposes that give these furry four-legged friends specific natures and temperaments. For example, hunting, companionship, guarding, and sheepdogs all need a specific temperament to fulfil their purposes. This can lead to a wide array of behaviours among dogs. While English Springer Spaniels were bred to work closely with humans as hunting partners and have a desire to be with their owners, Chow Chows are much more independent and aloof like cats, typically preferring not to be hugged and squeezed. 

Considering this, although owners have a significant impact on a dog’s behaviour and personality, there are some traits and temperaments that come part and parcel with the breed of our pets.  

Here, we’ll take a look at common dog breeds, their temperaments, and how to care for them. 

Top dog 

Each year, Rover carries out research to find out which breed of dog is the most popular for that year, analysing their database of over 20,000 pet owners. Using that data, we’ll look at the personalities and behaviours of our favourites. 

We adore the Labrador 

When it comes to choosing our favourite dog breeds, it can be hard picking just one favourite. All breeds are the best, after all. Saying that, however, we’re still not surprised that the Labrador Retriever comes out on top. These dogs were originally bred to be kept outside working for long periods of time, particularly for fishing and jumping into the water, aided by their water-repellent coat and webbed paws. So if you’re taking a Labrador out by the river, prepare for a wet dog. 

The Labrador is active, eager, easy to train, and ideal for a family due to their balanced and pleasant nature. Labradors are playful and intelligent dogs with a warm and friendly temperament. While some breeds don’t like children, a Labrador’s friendly and playful personality makes them a perfect option around kids as well as other dogs, ideal for walking in groups of other dogs. 

Labradors are rewarding pets that need lots of attention and exercise—this is particularly important due to their notorious joint and hip problems that usually incur later in life. Although food is love, Labradors are susceptible to obesity