So, you’ve finally convinced your spouse (or maybe you were the one who was convinced) that it’s time to add a furry friend to the family? That is going to be an exciting and life-changing milestone! As with all big decisions, there is a lot of thought and research needed, most especially when you have kids to consider. Dogs can be a child’s best friend and most loyal protector, but proper parenting is needed to teach children how to interact with dogs and vice versa. Other factors like the breed’s temperament, energy level, size, and care required need to be clear to ensure they matches the time, energy, and commitment you are willing to put in. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the information available, so we’ve gathered a basic list of family-friendly dog breeds to serve as a take-off point for your further reading.
Before starting the search for a professional breeder, you can also considering adopting a dog from a local dog shelter or rescue site. You can work closely with professionals to ensure your pup is a good fit for your family and all bases are covered when it comes to your pup’s health and wellness. Finally giving a stray a forever home means they will feel incredibly grateful and loyal to you, and it also opens up space and resources for another dog in need.
Goldens are one of the most popular picks for a family dog because of their perpetual smiles and friendly personality. These gentle giants are happy to lounge around your home as well as go on long walks with you. They also don’t seem to mind when younger kids invade their personal space and start playing actively. If your kids are older, they would surely enjoy taking their Golden out for a run, swim, or game of fetch.
Don’t let their small size fool you, this breed is packed with personality! Beagles are curious explorers who love to spend time with their owners. Living with a Beagle is a typically a smooth sailing due to their easy-to-care-for coat and charming personality. Although they don’t require much exercise, quality time with them is a must because they prefer the constant companionship. If your lifestyle keeps you busy within the walls of your own home, then this compact cutie is for you!
Another breed that has captured many hearts over the past few decades are the Labradors. The breed is known to be kind and outgoing when meeting new faces and rarely aggressive towards other people and animals. It is so easy to fall in love with their patient demeanour and desire to please their owners. Note that this breed is a better fit for families with an active lifefstyle because of their high energy levels and never-ending desire to play.
Poodles are an excellent choice for families with concerns about allergies. Their fur is close to hypoallergenic and flexible in terms of how it can be styled. The breed comes in three different sizes and colors, making it even easier to find the perfect fit for your family. On top of their stylish exterior, this breed is also highly intelligent and very easy to train, making adapting to a new family look like a breeze.
Those with a more laid-back lifestyle would be a good match with a loyal and loving Bulldog. As seen in multiple trending videos on social media, the breed is very affectionate and calm with children. Under their distinct wrinkles is a very warm demeanour and protectiveness over their families. The breed is sometimes stereotyped as a couch potato since Bulldogs don’t care for much exercise and love to snooze, but this doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy their fair share of activity—they make a good companion for walks and love to play with their owners.
Sources:
Erin Ollila, The Best Dog Breeds for Kids and Families, September 2020
Caroline Picard, The 20 Best Dogs for Kids and Families to Adopt Straight Away, Feb 2020
Melanie Haynes, Dogs and Children: How to Teach Your Dog to Interact with Kids, January 2020
Corey Whelan, 18 Best Dog Breeds for Kids, December 2019
Miranda Carney, 10 Best Family Dogs, July 2019
Steve Auger, 10 Dogs With the Best Temperament for Families, December 2015