Dogs are known for their positive personalities, but what are the best breeds to own? From Cocker Spaniels to Pomeranians, Rory Cowlam, aka Rory the Vet, has revealed what he thinks are the best dogs to own.
When it comes to choosing a new dog, try to learn as much as you can about the breeds you are interested in. It's also important to ensure your home and lifestyle are suited to owning a dog.
On that note, take a look at Rory's favourites...
1. Great Danes
"I grew up with Great Danes, so they are my spirit animal. They are absolutely wonderful. In fact, Great Danes are the reason I decided to become a vet and I adore them. Everyone has that dog that they had as a kid — and Great Danes are mine," Rory tells Country Living.
"They are gentle giants, but I think sometimes they can be quite misunderstood. Some people have a slight The Hound of the Baskervilles-style nervousness about Great Danes, but they are just wonderful dogs. It would be better if they were less slobbery!"
2. Lurchers
"I have a Lurcher, even though I never thought I'd own one. The reason we got her is because I think they're the best London dogs. They are basically 100-mile an hour couch potatoes. You can take them out for 45 minutes to sprint their legs off. Then, when you come home, they'll just collapse on their side and sleep all day."
3. Cocker Spaniel
"When we move out of London, I will almost certainly get a working dog — probably a Cocker Spaniel. They are excellent dogs, although they are not good enough for London in my opinion. They wouldn't fit my lifestyle at the moment, but they are really lovely dogs."
4. Pomeranians
"I've got a real soft spot weirdly for Pomeranians. They're really great dogs with big dog energy, despite being a small breed. They're not yappy dogs; they generally have a not-fussed-about-life attitude."
To help pet owners feel more confident on their migrations, Lily’s Kitchen has partnered with GWR to launch the Santa Paws Express – a specially-designed train and pet services to make it even easier for pet parents to travel with their four-legged friends over the holidays.
24 indestructible dog toys for aggressive chewers
KONG Tires Durable Rubber Chew Toy and Treat Dispenser for Power Chewers
This tyre-shaped chew toy has been made from durable rubber, so it's perfect for determined chewers. It also gives owners the chance to fill the inside with tasty treats, too. Available in two sizes for you to choose the best for your breed.
READ MORE: 6 dog games great for training and bonding
Built for durability, this bright red dog toy will offer your four-legged friend mental and physical stimulation. Starting from £9, it's a real steal buy.
Made from hemp and recycled cotton, this rope ring's tough fibres work to clean your pup's teeth while also being a whole lot of fun to play with.
Soft yet durable, this cute grey bear has minimal stuffing and an internal knotted rope skeleton.
One of the toughest dog balls on the market, this sweet 'planet' design has been made with award-winning Orbee Tuff material. Certain to provide hours of fun...
Ideal for dogs who love to swim, this floating fabric toy has a handle and is designed with abrasion-resistant materials for increased durability. Make sure not to forget it on your next beach trip.
This durable rubber mango toy — which can be filled with dog treats — is sure to provide hours of chewing fun. Perfect for small and medium dog breeds.
Keep your dog entertained for hours with this purse-friendly squeaky toy shaped like a carrot. Plus, we love that you can pick this up at the supermarket as you do your weekly food shop or even have it delivered with your groceries.
Give your dog one of their five a day with this sweetcorn chew toy. It has been designed especially for aggressive chewers and is suitable to small, medium, and large dogs in any breeds. We think dogs will love its small sound function.
If your pup is a fiend for peanut butter, you might want to introduce this peanut butter flavour chew toy into their playtime routine. The T-shape allows them to grip it easily with their paws while the raised nubs on it can help keep their teeth clean.
If they prefer the taste of bacon, why not try this double-bend bone toy. It's available in a range of sizes to ensure that your dog doesn't miss out on this tasty treat.
Let the fun commence with this long-lasting squeaker football dog toy. Perfect for keeping your dog entertained in the garden.
This durable wooden stick is great for dogs who love to chew regularly. While keeping your dog occupied for hours, it's also great for their dental hygiene.
Built to last, this fun donut dog toy has been made from high-quality material and will not wear down dogs' teeth.
This bright fetch toy is ideal for interactive fun. It has a squeaker and a practical handle for throwing at your pup. We're certain they'll love this!
Made from three strands of heavy duty tightly woven rope, this traditional rope toy is perfect for medium or larger breeds and can withstand some serious pulling and tugging.
This chew toy encourages healthy, non-destructive chewing habits with dogs. And it also has a tasty flavour to it too.
Great for young puppies, this gentle bone will help teething pups who have not yet formed any adult teeth.
We love this unique toy, which is great for chew sessions and endless fun. Top tip: fill with peanut butter to extend playtime and satisfy chewing instincts.
In a blush pink, this large onion toy is surprisingly durable. Best of all, it's currently on sale for less than £3.50.
Another great option if your dog loves to play fetch, this durable fetch stick toy not only makes it easier for them to spot where their stick has landed when you're out on a walk or a trip to the park. But it also works for all dogs of all sizes.
Looking for a durable rubber frisbee? Well, look no further, as this red style from KONG is perfect for keeping your four-legged friends fit and healthy.
Another great frisbee option is this XL one. It might even be easier for your four legged friend to grip and it's also currently on sale.
Made by Arm & Hammer, this gorilla-shaped toy is infused with baking soda to safely help with bad breath. Add in the fact that it is extremely durable and has a built-in treats dispenser and we can see why so many shoppers have given it five-star reviews.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
