Attorneys tend to spend all day in the courtroom or office. Finding the right pet to adapt to your schedule can be hard when working long hours. Some dogs, like German Shepherds, are closely associated with the justice system. However, they need plenty of attention and exercise. That might not be something you can provide with your busy lifestyle, unless you do your lawyering from home.

Certain breeds have qualities that appeal to busy lawyers. If you are looking for a new friend or want a companion to help you de-stress at the end of the day.

When selecting your next best friend, consider:

• Do you work from home, or are you gone long hours?
• If you’re away, are you single, or do you have other people living with you who can care for the dog?
• If you’re away and single, consider adopting a senior dog and skip the puppy phase.

German Shepherd Dog:

These dogs need a lot of time, attention, and exercise, so they are not a good fit for lawyers who are at the office every day. They need stimulation and must be a part of your family.

So while they are loyal, protective, smart, and beautiful, keep in mind that they shed, a LOT, and require a lot of attention and exercise. Did we mention that they shed and need a lot of exercise?

Fun Fact: They’re only #1 on this list because Law Dog Legal Marketing’s mascot is a German Shepherd.

Poodle

Poodles come in various sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. No matter where you live, they are the perfect companion for your home. Poodles are another intelligent breed and easily trainable. Along with that, their hypoallergenic coats are also a plus for lawyers with allergies.

Poodles are known for their graceful and elegant appearance. With their well-proportioned bodies, expressive eyes, and distinct grooming styles, poodles have a refined charm that aligns well with the polished image often associated with the legal profession.

Fun Fact: A Poodle named Lucy was once honored as a “Lawyer of Distinction” in Personal Injury Law after paying the $475 membership fee. Her application said that she held a Juris Dogtor and was a member of the King County Bark Association.

Basset Hound:

While we don’t like seeing dogs left alone for long periods of time, many Basset Hound experts describe this breed as a canine who is slow moving and low-energy. They’re generally very easy going dogs.

Basset Hounds can be distracted by scents and follow their nose. They can grow to be obese without enough exercise. Any dog with floppy ears will need them cleaned regularly.

According to the American Kennel Club, Basset Hounds require regular, moderate exercise, and usually 1 good walk each day will keep them in decent shape,

Fun Fact: The Law Office of Peter David Brown uses “Buster” & “Biscuit”, both Basset Hounds, as their law firm’s mascots. Here are the “top dogs”:

Bullmastiff:

Bullmastiffs are very loyal dogs who will do almost anything for their owners. They also happen to be low-energy dogs who are (generally speaking) content with a couple of short walks each day. They’re excellent companions and great for barking at the door when you aren’t at home.

Traits to watch out for are obesity, separation anxiety, stubbornness and socialization. If you’re considering a Bullmastiff, or any other dog in this guide, please do your due diligence and don’t go into this solely based on our grossly oversimplified article.

Fun Fact: Bullmastiffs are often affected by breed-specific legislation. Make sure you aren’t breaking the law by getting one.

Golden Retriever:

The Golden Retriever is known for its friendly nature, intelligence, and overall great personality. These dogs are also highly loyal, meaning you will have a fluffy friend waiting for you at the end of the day. Plus, they are easily trainable.

You can spend time bonding with your dog by teaching them how to fetch, sit, and stay. Along with that, some Goldens serve as therapy dogs. When you need to de-stress, these dogs are here to offer you a little emotional support as you deal with the challenges of the legal world.

Fun Fact: Florida Personal Injury Lawyer Roy Glass once sued the police for shooting his Golden Retriever “Boomer”? The shooting and lawsuit which followed resulted in a policy change with the St. Petersburg Police Department.

Chihuahuas:

Chihuahuas can be an excellent choice for lawyers due to their small size and adaptability to urban living. With long hours and demanding schedules in the legal world, these petite pups are low-maintenance and don’t require extensive exercise. Also, their compact size makes them well-suited for apartment living or busy city lifestyles. You can enjoy their companionship without the need for a large living space.

Fun Fact: There is a book called Just a Lawyer who Loves Chihuahuas?

Border Collie:

If you live an active lifestyle outside of the courtroom, a Border Collie might be your ideal canine. These dogs are another highly intelligent breed. They will need some mental stimulation and physical activity to keep them healthy. These dogs are not for those lawyers who want to chill out at the end of the day. For those with a healthy work-life balance, you may want to enjoy the companionship of this breed.

Fun Fact: You’ve heard about the guy that spent $20,000 to “become” a Border Collie, right? It’s legal, I guess…

Shih Tzu

Another lawyer-friendly breed is the Shih Tzu. These dogs are known for their gentle disposition and affectionate nature. Shih Tzus will form a strong bond with their owners. They are a good choice if you are looking for a loving and loyal dog. With their small size, these canines are the ideal match for someone in an apartment or small house. Even with their long coats, Shih Tzus are very low maintenance. At nighttime, they only need a short walk around the block. Plus, they are very friendly, providing comfort during those demanding times.

A judge once threw a case out when the owner tried to sue someone for $20 million over their Shih-tzu.

Pug

Another excellent companion for lawyers is the Pug. Their compact, square-shaped bodies and expressive faces make these canines easily recognizable. When you look at their short muzzles and wrinkled foreheads, you can’t help but have a smile on your face. These pups love human interaction. Their playful and jovial personalities can help with stress relief, offering moments of levity amid demanding legal tasks. With their lovable disposition and compact size, pugs are the perfect four-legged partners for lawyers.

Fun fact: Our old mascot was a pug.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

These devoted, low-maintenance dogs offer emotional support and company. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are sensible choices for legal professionals. These dogs can adjust to any living space. Plus, they have friendly temperaments and need only minimal exercise requirements. Additionally, you might get some prospective networking opportunities when you walk these attractive dogs throughout the neighborhood.

Fun Fact: Norway banned the breeding of the Cavalier King. Someone, call a lawyer.

Recap:

These dog breeds offer qualities that complement a lawyer’s lifestyle. Their intelligence, loyalty, and affectioncan provide invaluable companionship and support. However, you should consider your own needs and preferences when selecting a dog breed to ensure a harmonious and fulfilling relationship with your pet.