8 Best Family Dogs To Bring Home
When choosing a dog for your family, many factors come into play. Besides temperament and training, breed plays an important role in whether or not a pup will thrive in a family setting.
While any dog can nip, certain breeds are naturally gentle and patient with children. These eight best family dogs are ready for a new adventure with you and your crew.
1. Labrador Retriever
One of the most pawpular dogs in America, Labrador Retrievers are a smart breed that is easy to train and makes an excellent companion for families. They are incredibly loyal and will be by your side for life.
They’re gentle and patient with children of all ages, making them a great family dog. They also love to play and will fetch a ball for hours on end.
These high-energy dogs need lots of exercise to stay fit, including swimming and playing fetch. If they’re not given enough exercise, they can develop destructive boredom behaviors. They also require a quality diet and must be monitored for obesity. Always give your Labrador Retriever food formulated for their size and activity level.
2. Border Collie
As depicted in Lassie, this herding breed loves children and can keep them entertained with their endless energy. They are sturdy enough to withstand the rough play of kids and are very receptive to training. But make sure to be the Pack Leader and set clear boundaries from day one.
The smooshed-faced Pug is an ideal family dog that can be both sweet and mischievous. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy.
Because of herding instincts, Border Collies are prone to chasing and need plenty of exercise to fulfill their needs. Consider getting them involved in dog sports or a daily walk and hike to provide the mental and physical exercise they need.
3. Poodle
Poodles are affectionate and energetic dogs that love to include family members in play. They are good with kids and other pets when socialized at an early age. They thrive in a house or condo with a fenced backyard and regular exercise that includes games of fetch or hikes.
Those looking to bring home this impressive breed should seek out a responsible, reputable breeder who focuses on health and temperament as well as appearance. Or, consider adopting a poodle from a rescue center; many are already trained and may be more accustomed to living in a home. Just be prepared to commit time to training and daily walks, as a bored poodle can become destructive.
4. Bichon Frise
This small breed is known for its powder-puff appearance and happy-go-lucky personality. It’s good for older children and is a great choice for families with allergies, as it doesn’t shed or produce the dander that triggers it.
Bichons enjoy being the center of attention and thrive in busy households. They are highly receptive to training and love to learn tricks. However, they can be slightly cunning and need to be trained with a firm yet gentle hand. They also need regular grooming to keep their beautiful coat looking its best. They do well in apartments or houses and have moderate exercise needs. However, like many smaller dogs, they are prone to obesity and dental health problems.
5. Weimaraner
Weimaraners, also known as “Gray Ghosts,” are sleek German hunters with an innate desire to please. They are highly trainable, energetic dogs that love to exercise. They thrive on daily walks, jogs and play sessions.
Weimaraners are great with kids and devoted to their families. However, they can become anxious if left alone for extended periods of time. They have a strong prey drive and may chase smaller animals, so they shouldn’t be left unsupervised with small pets such as cats, birds or rabbits. They are also not good candidates for homes with small reptiles.
6. English Bulldog
The wrinkly-faced English Bulldog is an excellent family dog because they are loving and affectionate toward children. They also get along well with other animals in the home.
This sporting breed has a playful disposition and loves playing games with kids. They are easy to train and do best in homes with a lot of activity.
These herding dogs are tolerant of children, and they enjoy keeping them in line with a little “herding,” which the kids often find hysterical. They make good watchdogs and are not aggressive with people or other pets. They do best in households with older children. Find a herding dog in your area.
7. Vizsla
A devoted companion, the Vizsla forms tight bonds with family members. Dubbed “Velcro dogs,” they love to follow their people around and demand attention.
These dogs thrive in active homes where they can join in on hikes, beach days, or camping trips. Their stamina and energy make them good candidates for dog sports like agility training.
They also benefit from a high-quality diet that supports their athletic lifestyle. Regular ear cleaning can prevent wax build-up, and they need to have their teeth brushed daily. They also need routine veterinary check-ups to avoid health problems like hypothyroidism. The condition slows metabolism, resulting in obesity and weight gain, but is treatable with oral medication.
8. Beagle
Beagles are typically very friendly, and they make a wonderful addition to any family. But be aware that they can easily get scared – this could be due to loud noises, jerky movements or if they smell something that makes them anxious. Their fear response may be urinating and defecating in the house or chewing everything in sight.
Beagles are scent hounds and consider their people their pack. They want to be with you, and they are not happy left alone in a yard all day.
They are prone to separation anxiety, and they can destroy items in the house when you’re away. Crate training and plenty of attention can help prevent this behavior.
