The 6 best family dogs

Getting a dog in your family is a wonderful thing - especially for children, who get an inseparable best friend for life - from adventures in the park to cuddles at home. Having a dog can help teach your children care and responsibility and also develop their social skills. So if you're looking to welcome a dog into your home, we're here to help with our 6 suggestions for the best dog breeds for families, as well as the best dogs for kids.

 

 

With the right training and upbringing, and the right amount of love and care, any dog can be a great companion for your family. Some breeds are better around children and are better suited to being good family dogs than others, but finding the dog that fits your family's lifestyle and habits is key. Here are the three most important things to think about when you start your search for a four-legged friend:

 

Temperament - energetic or calm? Do you need a dog that likes to be surrounded by lots of different people or rather one that is more independent and comfortable in its own space?

Size - match the size of the dog to the age of your child. A large puppy can be quite clumsy around young children, so it may be better to choose a smaller breed. It's also a myth that only small dogs are suitable for a small home and only big dogs need more space. The amount of energy a dog has, not its size, influences how much space it needs.

Exercise - active, outdoors or more likely to curl up on the couch? This applies to both you and your dog, making sure you're a good fit for each other. Dogs don't exercise alone, so the size of your home or garden is much less important than how much you can walk, run or play with them.

 

 

Although there are many breeds that are known to be good and patient with children, consider getting a dog from a shelter - there are often many crossbreeds out there with good temperaments looking for caring owners. Shelter staff know the personalities and habits of puppies very well and can guide you on which ones might integrate easily into your home. Remember that even if you don't want an older dog there are plenty of puppies in the shelters.

 

However, if you are looking for a specific breed or just a starting point, here are some of the most popular breeds of dogs suitable for children:

 

 

Beagles are gentle and patient, but also active and fun dogs that need lots of love, which kids can supply in big handfuls.

 

 

The Labrador is one of the most popular dogs around the world. The reason that this breed is so suitable for families with children is because it can adapt to any type of daily life, from long walks to relaxed days at home.

 

 

The Labrador's cousin. Same good-natured and unconditionally loving furballs, just with a bit more hair. They are especially good for families with older children, as Goldens are sometimes less patient with younger children who don't respect their space.

 

 

Small, gentle and friendly dogs, which makes them extremely suitable for families with children. They are very easy to get attached to (children will love them very much) and also they are not demanding at all in terms of care. They are good - the perfect company for children and more active seniors. Of course because of their smaller size,they are also ideal for travelling.

 

 

A smaller dog that is great for more active families. Border Terriers are also happy and energetic, but without the stubbornness that other terriers often possess.

 

 

Poodles are lively dogs that quickly bond with their owners and are very attentive to children. If you've set your sights on the ever-so-popular ornamental poodles, keep in mind that your child needs to be treated with proper care around these delicate little guys.

 

 

 

For more helpful dog tips, check out our other articles or try the dogin'BOX - a personalized box of treats and toys selected especially for your dog that will make the time you spend together with your beloved pooch even more fun and rewarding for both of you. Contact us!