What is the best family dog to have?
From an Australian Kelpie to a Labradoodle, here are 10 answers to the question, “What is the best family dog to have?”
- Australian Kelpie
- What is the Best Family Dog to Have
- Beagle
- Borzoi
- Labrador Retriever
- Labradoodle
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Great Pyrenees
- Papillon
- There Really Isn’t a One Size Fits All Answer
Australian Kelpie
Having grown up in a home with an Australian Kelpie, I can confidently say they make the best family dog. These intelligent and loyal Aussie pups are known for their work ethic and love to be kept busy – whether that’s chasing down a ball or accompanying you on daily jogs. Despite their active nature, Kelpies are quiet and don’t tend to bark unless there is something worth barking about. They also form strong relationships with their ‘pack’ members, making them great for families. With lots of exercise and long walks, these energetic dogs will thrive in a family setting as part of your everyday routine!
Antreas Koutis, Administrative Manager, Financer
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What is the Best Family Dog to Have
The Golden Retriever is a medium to large-sized family dog with a friendly demeanor. They are not aggressive and are full of energy; they enjoy playing. They are also tolerant and easily trainable.
Because of how well they bond with humans, especially children, this dog breed is one of the most popular in the world. In addition, they are loyal to the humans with whom they live and show a great deal of affection. They are well-known for their long, golden double coat and are stunning to look at.
Samantha Odo, Real Estate Expert & Chief Operating Officer at Precondo, Precondo
Beagle
Beagles are great family dogs for several reasons. They are friendly, energetic, and playful, making them well-suited for families with small children. Additionally, beagles are generally good-natured and patient, which makes them good at tolerating playing with children. Their size is relatively small (about 13 inches tall and weighing about 18 pounds), meaning they will be ideal for those living in tiny houses or apartments with limited free space. Beagles are also intelligent and can be easily trained, which can be beneficial when we want to train a dog and teach it tricks or desired behaviors, such as forbidding sleeping on a couch.
Overall, beagles are an excellent choice for families looking for a friendly and energetic companion. But before making the final decision, consider factors like energy level, size, grooming requirements, and dog temperament. Make sure the pet’s needs are compatible with your family’s lifestyle.
Nina Paczka, Community Manager, Resume Now
Labrador Retriever
A family dog is picked based on several factors that may influence its existence with family members. A Labrador Retriever ticks the requirements of being a family dog. Their energetic character and friendly demeanor make them ideal companions for family members.
They possess an ability to learn tricks and other dog pieces of training quickly, making them an intelligent addition to the family setting. They are an active breed of dog, thus making them ideal for family members who want to work out regularly by running and walking. They have a friendly nature that qualifies them as ideal family dogs.
Yongming Song, CEO, Live Poll for Slides
Labradoodle
A Labradoodle is the perfect family dog. They are large enough that you won’t step on them and small enough to manage even in smaller spaces. These dogs are lovable and loyal. They get along with other animals and kids. With the dogs being half poodles, they have very little shedding and work well even for most individuals with allergies.
These dogs are great for training and very smart. The Labradoodle loves to play fetch and swim, and most of all they love to just curl up with their human. Families can’t go wrong with bringing a Labradoodle into their family.
Brianna Bitton, Co-Founder, O Positiv
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavaliers are affectionate, loyal, and friendly dogs that suit family environments perfectly. They love spending time with their owners, snuggling, and playing in the house or garden. Thanks to their patience and gentle nature, they make brilliant company for all family members. Adult dogs are usually 12-13 inches tall and weigh 13-18 pounds.
Their small size additionally makes them safe even for toddlers. This tolerant breed is good not only with young children, but also with other dogs and pets. They easily adapt to new circumstances and are very protective of their families. Cheerful, cuddly, and calm cavaliers make great family dogs.
Agata Szczepanek, Community Manager, LiveCareer
Great Pyrenees
I’ve opted to include my favorite breed, the Great Pyrenees, also known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, because I’ve primarily encountered Labradors and German Shepherds.
So, what is it about this breed that I adore? Their devotion, size, and gentle attitude, not to mention the sense of security that comes with having a Pyr. These dogs are quite laid-back and often get along well with small children. Though they are reserved around strangers, they may grow comfortable around them if properly socialized (my purebred Pyr absolutely loves people, even strangers). This breed is also extremely lovable and one of the greatest breeds.
They may not be the tough, highly trainable GSD, the eager-to-please retriever, or the quick-to-listen Border Collie, but they are large, loyal, protective fluffs who will love and defend you.
David reid, Sales Director, VEM-Tooling Co. Ltd.
Papillon
Papillons are small in size, adorable, and show little aggression. They are good with kids and extra playful, making them an ideal family dog that even adults enjoy having as company. Compared to other dog breeds, they are also relatively independent and will not be a burden in the family.
Papillons enjoy retrieving balls and will jump at the opportunity to go for a walk with you. Being less aggressive means they are not likely to get into trouble with other dogs and will not cause issues when someone pets them.
There Really Isn’t a One Size Fits All Answer
As a Clinical Animal Behaviorist, I’m often asked which is the best family dog to have, but it really depends on your preferences. While some breeds may be seen as more tolerant of children, actually, there is more variation in behavior within a breed than between breeds – so it’s almost impossible to say.
Genetics are always there and underlying, but the environment in which the dog lives is hugely important too.
It depends on your lifestyle – do you want a couch potato or someone to join you on adventures? How much time can you commit to training and exercising?
So rather than specifying a breed – I like to help owners by seeing which breed fits their specific lifestyle rather than just a family as a whole.
Heather Taylor, Clinical Animal Behaviourist, Taylor’s Dogs
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