As medical students, it is common to find yourself constantly being pressed for time. This does not mean that medical students cannot have dogs; it simply means that you should get a dog that can easily adjust to your busy schedule.
Medical students would typically require dogs who can be left alone for several hours. Below, we discuss several dog breeds that would not only adjust but also thrive while living with a medical student.
Table of Contents
List Of 12 Best Dog Breeds For Medical Students
1. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is an ideal breed if you have never owned a dog before. They are also able to adapt to living in an apartment. French Bulldogs are highly affectionate dogs who love to cuddle with their owners or spend time with them.
They are also friendly towards strangers and other pets unless trained. The French Bulldog is easy to groom; however, they are susceptible to excess weight gain and various health issues. If you get a French Bulldog, you should watch their health with attention.
2. Mastiff
The Mastiff is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. Their origins date back to about 5000 years when they were commonly used as war dogs, which is an extreme contrast to today’s role. If you like big dogs and do not mind the fact that mastiffs drool, then this breed would be the ideal companion for you.
However, if you are a novice dog owner, I would not recommend getting a Mastiff as your first dog. They tend to be mouthy or stubborn, which can be challenging to deal with given their large size. With that being said, Mastiffs are affectionate dogs who love to be treated with love.
3. Poodle
The Poodle is an intelligent dog breed that is also easy to train. Their fluffy yet sleek appearance and impressive trainability have made them one of the common breeds at dog shows. Poodles tend to thrive when given attention naturally; however, they can be trained to not resort to bad habits when they are not given attention.
The more miniature Poodles can be aggressive toward strangers, and you can curb this tendency by socializing them from a young age. You should allow your Poodle to interact with various individuals and dogs so that they can learn to respond to them appropriately.
4. Brussels Griffon
These small but vocal dogs tend to be excessive barkers unless trained accordingly. Brussels Griffons are toy-sized dogs generally between 7 to 8 inches tall and weigh between 8 to 10 pounds. They are energetic dogs who require about 40 minutes of physical exercise every day.
Brussels Griffons are an assertive breed that prefers being near their owners rather than spending time in their kennel despite their size. If you live in an apartment, you would be relieved to know that Brussels Griffons are well suited for the apartment lifestyle.
5. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a small, energetic dog breed. They are known for their comical demeanor and busy nature. When a Chihuahua is given something to do, it will be captivated. Chihuahuas are pretty sassy, which can be a hassle when training them.
Like many other small dogs, Chihuahuas are prone to excessive barking. This tendency can be dealt with through training, but their sassy nature will be displayed somehow.
Chihuahuas can take up the role of watchdogs because they are generally not too friendly to strangers.
6. West Highland White Terrier
These friendly and fun-loving dogs are ideal for owners who enjoy playing with their dogs. Although West Highland White Terriers are affectionate and eager to please their owners, they can also be quite stubborn, and their stubborn nature also makes them determined.
They would willingly follow a badger underground simply because they tend to commit to any undertaken task. If you have small pets such as bunnies, you should train your West Highland White Terrier to be able to get along with them. On the contrary, West Highland White Terriers are excellent playmates for other dogs.
7. Bull Terriers
Look no further if you want a loyal, playful, and endearing breed. The Bull Terriers would be ideal for you, and their mischievous tendencies often keep things interesting.
Although some would say that the Bull Terrier looks aggressive, they are incredibly gentle. Their short fur coats are easy to groom and are generally not prone to forming mats.
8. Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a natural guard dog. They are naturally suspicious of strangers, which can be an issue unless early socialization is implemented. They have a medium energy level and thus need at least 40 minutes of physical activity daily.
The Bullmastiff is easy-going and gentle. However, they are not very tolerant of other animals. If you have other pets, I would not recommend getting a Bullmastiff unless you are willing to invest more time in training them to be more tolerant of other pets.
9. Miniature Schnauzers
The Miniature Schnauzer is a highly intelligent breed. Their intelligence makes them easy to train, and they relish learning and soak new lessons up like sponges. However, they tend to be vocal, and you should train them to bark at appropriate moments.
The Miniature Schnauzer is very easy to groom. They experience, little shedding, and no drool. Hence, you will not have to do much cleaning up. Miniature Schnauzers tend to be energetic, so you should ensure that they can have physical activity so they do not grow restless.
10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a distant descendant of a small dog breed generally used to warm laps in the 16th to 18th century in Northern Europe. However, now they are the ideal companion breed. They typically love to cuddle, so they would curl up on your lap or next to you while you rest or study.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels do not experience excessive shedding; however, they require a professional trim now and then. They also require regular baths and frequent brushing to maintain their fur coats’ soft and fluffy appearance.
11. Pugs
Pugs are known for their sense of humor. If you are looking for a lively and fun-loving dog, then a Pug would be ideal. Pugs were bred as lapdogs and are still amongst today’s favorite companion breeds.
However, they can be rather hard-headed at times, but you will be able to train your Pug with patience, persistence, and love. Even though Pugs have short fur, they tend to shed quite a lot, and they also tend to wheeze and snore.
12. Golden Retrievers
Golden Retrievers are charming and loyal dogs. Although they are protective of their family, they are generally gentle and calm-tempered. Golden Retrievers are ideal companion dogs because they can easily adjust to various situations and love to please their owners.
However, Golden Retrievers are active dogs, and they need at least an hour of physical activity daily. As their name suggests, Golden Retrievers tend to be fond of playing fetch and running around. Your Golden Retriever would be an excellent hunting partner.
FAQ
Can Doctors Have Dogs?
Yes, doctors can have dogs, and however, doctors should consider all their other engages before committing to a dog.
Should A Medical Student Get A Dog?
It depends on the time that you have available. Since you would spend such little time with your dog, you should only get a dog if it is a breed that can comfortably spend time alone.
Is It Possible To Have A Dog During Medical School?
It is possible to have a dog during medical school, but it will not be easy. Dogs require attention, love, grooming, playtime, and being fed. If you’re away for most of the day, you may find it challenging to balance having a dog.
Do Doctors Have Time For Dogs?
It depends on the individual. Ultimately, a doctor could have a dog, but they will have to plan their time well to ensure that they give their dog enough attention. They also need the help of others, such as friends, for moments when something unexpected comes up.
Conclusion
Being a doctor requires quite a bit of sacrifice in terms of your time. It may seem like you hardly have time for yourself, but you could still want a dog. Do not fret because many dog breeds can adjust to living with a doctor.
However, before getting a dog, ensure that you have considered what it may require from you. You should also ensure that you are prepared for having a dog.
