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If you’ve been thinking about welcoming a new dog into your home then you’re in good company – Royal Kennel Club (the new name for the UK Kennel Club) stats show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels.
Dogs come in all shapes, colours and sizes - there are 221 different pedigree dogs recognised by breeders in the UK, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
So there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or an easy to train dog.
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There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
If you are an outdoorsy family, it makes sense to opt for a breed that will enjoy joining you for alfresco adventures.
Indeed, some dogs love being outside so much they will be happy to even sleep under the stars – as long as the climate is suitable.
So, here are the 13 dog breeds that need plenty of time outside to stay healthy and happy.
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9. Hungarian Vizsla
It's unlikely you'll be able to outpace the high-energy Hungarian Vizsla - a breed that can swim almost as well as they can run. One word of caution though, these are dogs that aren't great in extremely cold conditions, so keep an eye on them in winter. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Irish Wolfhound
Standing over three feet tall, the Irish Wolfhound isn't a natural fit for indoor living. They have an amazingly thick coat - the result of having been bred to spend long hours out in the wilderness hunting with their owners - and are generally happier out than in. | Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images
11. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Originally bred for endurance and hunting in Africa, Ridgebacks are athletic, courageous and independent. They enjoy long walks, open spaces and challenging outdoor adventures with their owners. | Getty Images
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12. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff originates from the snowy Himalayan Mountains and has a thick double coat that keeps them warm and dry in the worst of weather. They shed their dense undercoat in the summer, allowing them to cope with warmer weather too - making them an outdoor dog for all seasons. | Getty Images