Choosing the best dog for the family is not as easy as one might think but it can be an enjoyable process for the whole family. Determining who we are as a family, what we’re bringing to the table, we can’t just think about what kind of dog we want, because the dog is only half of the equation; We are the other half.
What type of dog is best for your family depends on understanding your family’s wishes: lifestyle, time available to train the dog, age and energy levels of the offspring, and energy to help fit in. a dog into your family and your financial capabilities. Whether you should adopt a puppy or an older dog depends on all of the above factors and will ultimately make choosing a compatible family dog a worthwhile and important endeavor.
Ask each family member what she wants in a dog
By including each family member’s wishes for how she sees a family-appropriate dog, you may be surprised to learn that one of them actually doesn’t want a dog, who The other is eager to teach tricks and one spouse wants a hiking buddy, while another is afraid of dogs. Knowing this will help facilitate the decision-making process when looking for a doggie companion for your whole family.
The best family dog breeds
That said, these breeds, or a combination thereof, are known to have an overall good track record for thriving in a family with children.
Labrador Retriever because of its natural temperament is lovable, very trainable and docile. Labs loves being a part of whatever the family is doing; they are energetic and can go far – hiking, to the beach or as a companion. Plus, Labs will make you laugh for years.
Golden Retrievers have enough energy and are ready to be a part of whatever the family wants to do. Goldens are known to be playful and have the ability to hone in on what’s going on in an active family, often bringing a calming presence to a situation. That’s why they’re often used as service dogs for people with autism, and as I mentioned, Goldens are easy to train.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a great family dog - they love the outdoors but don’t require much exercise. These gentle and sweet dogs love to be cuddled, don’t have high energy but love to play and run. Cavaliers are happy to be a domestic dog that can take long walks in the neighborhood, happily greeting other people and dogs. Easy-going and trainable, Cavaliers can adapt to new situations and people.
Collies are excellent family dogs with the stamina to keep up with the most active family. They are approachable, adventurous, loyal and very intuitive to the needs of each family member. Remember Lassie, the famous TV star who wholeheartedly took care of Timmy? Smart as a whip, but won’t try to outdo you and a very willing partner. Collies are a bit more maintenance committed, given their longer coat. However, if you are looking for a great personality, the Collie is a great choice.
The West Highland Terrier is a great family pet due to its slightly average size, but with a large breed personality that can go the distance with any active family. He’s sturdy, but not too loud. This intelligent, confident dog is eager to learn and loves to play tricks. The Westie might not be likable for those looking for that type of personality, but some might surprise you. They need a little more patience during training because of their independence but will give you all if you put in the time. Tiger women need a little more maintenance as they are white and need grooming, but the steadfast nature of courage and sanity goes a long way to keeping you entertained for many years. five. They also have a long lifespan.
Pugs are small, sociable and easy-to-train dogs, but with lower energy levels, may suit families that are more indoors than outdoors. Puppies don’t need too much physical stimulation, but are playful enough to learn some tricks and play catch with the kids. They adapt easily to new situations, are not overly protective, and are quite sociable. They have a personality like a clown, so they will make everyone smile all the time.
Standard Poodles are also known as clowns. I call them humans in dog suits. They are intelligent, playful, pompous, willing mates and enjoy every member of the family equally. They need to be stimulated both physically and mentally, and if you don’t, they will make their own agenda. Most dogs will do this, but there’s something about the Standard Poodle where they have a weird way of letting you know they need something from you and know that you’ll be wise in return. than doing it. They will definitely keep you on your toes. Don’t be fooled or put off by the Poodle clipping in the show, most people don’t keep them that way, and instead keep them in the so-called puppy clipping. Standard Poodles shed little but need regular grooming. Standard Poodles (for the most part) have lower energy levels than Toys and Miniatures are smaller in size and very sociable with other dogs.
Are mixed breed dogs good for the family?
Of course there are other breeds, which are family-friendly dogs. I’ve selected the most popular purebred dogs to show you what traits they have, so you can think about which breed or mix of breeds might be the best dog for your family. .
Any mix between these breeds is something to seriously consider as one can achieve the best of both worlds with a mutant dog. One of the largest service dog organizations, Canine’s companion for independencestarted their own breeding program to cross breed Golden Retrievers with Labrador Retrievers because they felt that this was the best way to gather the best traits of each in a dog, resulting in a Dogs have a tougher temperament.
Other great mixes/mixes are:
You may find that Poodles mixed with other breeds make great family dogs that provide trainability, intelligence, tenderness, and loyalty.
What is the best dog for a family with children?
If you have a baby or toddler, choosing the right dog becomes even more important because of obvious safety concerns. This requires a good, honest look at an infant or toddler’s energy levels and how ready they are to go with the program.
Your child is more independent, wants to make his own or is more shy, and will need to acclimate to a dog and feel satisfied with long cuddles on the couch. More independent kids are better off with a medium to large breed dog, so they won’t be tempted to bring along a smaller dog without understanding that the dog might not enjoy being held all the time. . Since they can’t hold a larger dog, it may be an opportunity for this child to learn how to teach an older dog tricks and spread joy rather than having to tell them “please put the dog in your hands.” down; she really doesn’t like being held” more often than you’d like. The shy or quiet kid might enjoy being cuddled up with King Charles Spaniel of the Cavalry, melting everyone’s heart.
Children need to be taught how to interact with dogs and dogs need to learn how to be appropriate with children. Family Paws Parenting Education iA great resource for parents to get the support they need to raise dogs and kids safely and happily together. Being proactive rather than reactive is the key to creating safety and harmony in the family. It doesn’t happen without parental guidance.
Thinking more maturely than emotionally about what might be the best companion for your family offers the greatest chance for a long and happy life for both your dog and family. Once you’ve decided on the right puppy for your family, let the emotions fly, as you’re now ready to fill your home with more fun than you ever imagined possible.
