With over 40 breeds of cats and hundreds of types of dogs, it can be intimidating when it comes to finding the right pet for you. They vary in looks, sizes, activity, and behavior, and you must care for each according to their individual needs. When it comes to choosing your next furry friend, we’ve got you covered.

You live in a small apartment:

While there may not be a huge backyard to roam, apartments are more than suitable for most breeds. To avoid bothering your fellow city-dwellers, look into tail-waggers that aren’t prone to barking and don’t require too much exercise. You can’t go wrong with Cavalier King Charles spaniels, Havanese, and pugs, which are all laid-back snugglers. Other downtown pooches include Bichon frises, Boston terriers, bulldogs, greyhounds, Shih Tzus, and Chinese crested dogs.

You have an active lifestyle:

If you like long walks on the beach (or to the closest dog park), you should swipe right on a four-legged friend that can double as a hiking buddy. No matter what your fitness goals are, a canine companion will undoubtedly make any workout better. Try and keep up with Australian shepherds, Siberian huskies, German shorthaired pointers, border collies, or (101) Dalmatians on your next run. Though they’re little, Pembroke Welsh corgis and Russell terriers are also great training partners.

You have young kids:

After watching Lady and the Tramp, your child is sure to want a cuddly pup. You’ll want to look for one with a friendly temperament that also has the right energy level and size for your house and family. For your kiddo’s next best friend, you can’t go wrong with Marley himself, a Labrador retriever. Not only are they smart and loyal dogs, but they’re also patient, making them perfect for your younger family members. Other child-friendly breeds include golden retrievers, poodles, beagles, bulldogs, and collies.

If you’re worried about high-energy puppies, you can always opt for an adult doggo and skip the potty training and teething phase.

You are a first-time owner:

Becoming a first-time dog owner can be exciting and intimidating at the same time. The routine walks, vet visits, and feedings may sound like a lot, but it’s all worth it for the joy your new pup will bring. While all canines have a long list of basic needs, you’ll feel less overwhelmed picking one that is easygoing and forgiving. For your first four-legged friend, look no further than boxers, known for their loyalty, patience, and desire for close bonds and human affection. You can also find comfort in Labrador retrievers, Pomeranians, papillons, poodles, or mutts, who offer the characteristics of two breeds in one bundle of joy.

Not a first-time owner? Check out our blog about bringing a second dog home.

You are always on the go:

From grooming and vet visits to exercising and training, caring for some breeds requires more time and money. While there’s no such thing as a maintenance-free doggo, some kinds are better suited for busy lifestyles. If you’re often on the go, you might find your best friend in dachshunds, well-liked for their positive disposition. You also won’t regret curling up with mellow pups such as French bulldogs, Cavalier King Charles spaniels, chihuahuas, bullmastiffs, greyhounds, or their mini-mes, whippets.

You have allergies:

Just because you have allergies doesn’t mean you can’t add a furball to the family. While there are no dogs that are completely allergy-free, there are several breeds that shed less than others. Ditch the tissues and medicine for a lively game of tug-of-war with hypoallergenic canines, including Yorkshire terriers, Shih Tzus, Portuguese water dogs, Basenjis, Bedlington terriers, and poodles.

What if you’re a cat person instead?

Unsure if you want a dog? A cuddly kitten might be the choice for you. While lovable and loyal creatures, felines are easier to care for and are more independent by nature. When choosing the right one, you’ll want to consider their gender, age, and whether they are a pedigree or mixed breed cat. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance roommate, American shorthairs and Maine coons are known for their laid-back and relaxed demeanors. For the more extraverted cat lovers, you’ll find engaging companions in Scottish folds, Tonkinese, Birmans, and ragdolls.

If you already have a tabby at home, read our blog about adding a second cat to the household.

Before running to the nearest pet store, consider visiting your local animal shelter. You never know who you might connect with, and if you’re scared to commit, you can use volunteer and foster opportunities to get to know the cuddly creatures.