The loveable Labrador is a large and versatile dog that is as happy chilling with the family, as he or she is, out on walkies in the fields. They need around two hours’ exercise per day, brushing once a week, and are best suited to larger houses.

Known for their distinctive gold or cream coat, Golden Retrievers make a great family pet thanks to their gentle, easy-going nature. They are large dogs best suited to a bigger garden, so they have space to roam around. They need two hours’ exercise per day and grooming once a week.

The French Bulldog is easily identified by its distinctive ‘bat ears’ and flat face. This small dog is laid-back and playful, happy in a small house or a flat – as long as they have enough playtime. They need around one hour’s exercise per day, and their short coat needs grooming once a week.

A type of toy spaniel, the Cavalier King Charles is a regal breed that make great pets. These small, affectionate dogs are comfortable in smaller homes, and only need around one hour’s exercise per day. Their longer coat needs grooming a couple of times a week.

The German Shepherd was a hero of the First World War, recognised for its bravery. Today, it has built on that trust with its heroic, worthy work as a guide dog and police dog. Large, long-haired and loyal, the German Shepherd requires two hours’ exercise per day and a large garden to run around.

The Poodle is an active and intelligent pooch that is easily recognised by its curly coat. Its couture haircut was created to make it a stronger, more agile swimmer. Today, the Poodle comes in three varieties – standard, miniature and toy. Either way they need around one hour’s exercise per day and a daily groom for their fluffy coat.

Beagles are elegant hunting dogs with a playful and affectionate nature – perfect for families with children young and old. Their small, athletic stature means a small house and garden offer plenty of space for their daily one hour’s exercise. Groom them once a week.

Shih Tzus are cuddly, fluffy dogs with an extroverted personality and playful temperament. These small dogs are great with all ages, especially children. They only need one hour’s exercise per day – but you have to groom their long coats every day, too. A flat has plenty of space for a Shih Tzu.

You may associate the Bulldog with Winston Churchill, but there’s a lot more to this lovable breed. Dependable and friendly, Bulldogs are relaxed and lazy and will be happy in a small house with around one hour’s exercise per day. Their short coat only needs grooming once a week, too.

The Boxer is a short-haired, mastiff-type dog that dotes on their family. Known for their athleticism and intelligence, Boxers make perfect guard or tracking dogs. Naturally, these large dogs need lots of exercise – two hours per day. But they only need to be groomed once a week.

Perhaps the dog with the fanciest name, Bichon Frise are as cheerful as they are noble, and they love being the centre of attention. They expect a pampered environment – but a small flat offers plenty of space for this small breed. They need daily grooming but just half-an-hour of exercise to keep them happy.

One of the most iconic dog breeds, Greyhounds were bred for racing and hunting. Despite their athleticism, these sighthounds love lazing about, with a sweet, gentle temperament made for families. Greyhounds need a large house and garden to burn off their energy, with one hour’s exercise per day. Brush their short coat once a week to keep them looking tidy.