Choosing a dog is like choosing a mate: you need one that fits your personality, lifestyle and even interests. With so many different kinds of dogs out there, which is the best dog breed for you and your family?

Before you can figure that out, you’ll need to answer a few important questions:

• How much time can we dedicate to our new pet?

• How much space do we have available?

• What are we looking for in a pet? Companionship? Security? Exercise? Size? Quietness? Excitability?

• Who will be the new pet’s primary caregiver?

Once you have a clear idea of what you and your family wants – and doesn’t want – in a dog, it’s time to look for the breed that best fits your style and personality.

Here are some of the best dog breeds that pet owners and experts recommend:

Sporting Dogs

Labrador and Golden Retrievers are a wonderful breed choice for the active person or family. They love the outdoors and are happiest when hunting, fishing and camping. Sporting dogs are easy to train and great with kids, but do require lots of space (preferably a fenced yard), and are likely to be found rolling in smelly objects (both alive and dead) outside. This is not a good breed for neat freaks and quiet spirited people.

Working Dogs

The best dog breeds for most people are from the working dog group. Rottweilers, Huskies, and Schnauzers all fall within this category and are good with kids. They do, however, need to have a “job to do”, even if that job is keeping the kids occupied. These breeds take a firm-handed owner, who can handle a smart, independent pet.

Toy Dogs

These cute little dogs are preferred by single people, older adults and those who travel, since they are easy to tote along. Although small and adorable, don’t let their cuteness fool you. These breeds, which include the popular Pug, Shih Tzu and Pomeranian, have big personalities and require more exercise than you might originally think. They are the best dog breeds for apartment dwellers without children.

Herding Dogs

Herding dogs which include Boarder Collies, German Shepherds and Shetland Sheepdogs are extremely intelligent, loyal, and hard working. These are the best dog breeds for people with active children (although these dogs may try and “herd” your children by carefully nipping at their rump or feet to get them to tow the line); or who live on working farms. These dogs love to work and aren’t usually happy unless they get a lot of attention and exercise!

Mixed Breeds

Can’t decide on the best dog breed for your family? Many people choose a mixed breed pets, which may offer a nice compromise between two breeds you find favorable. These dogs are not only wonderful companions, they are often much cheaper than high-end full bred pets.

With so many dog breeds available, it may seem impossible to choose which one is the best dog breed for you. The best way to choose is to talk to a lot of different kinds of dog owners, pet store helpers, vets and breeders to see what personality and size dog you’ll be happy with for years to come.