Dogs are the most common family pet in America. Their loyal nature, kind personalities, and cute quirks combine to make them fantastic companions. For families that have not yet had a dog, it can be difficult to pin down just what type of dog is right for their particular families’ needs. Knowing their temperament, trainability, exercise and health needs, and much more becomes essential during this process. To help families discover the exact breed that will feel right for them, here are eight dog breeds that are perfect for family pets:
1. Labrador Retriever
There’s a reason the Lab has remained such a popular breed in America. The friendly, intelligent, and surprisingly patient nature of the breed has made them known for their adorable, cuddly personalities. Especially for those with small children, the patience and energy of the dog make them a good fit when looking for a reliable and safe family pet. Just make sure you have the time to give them the exercise they need, as they are a very active breed.
2. Bulldog
Bulldogs’ thick frames may make them look intimidating, but they are an incredibly kind, compassionate, and patient breed of dog. They are less active and require less exercise than many bigger breeds, and for this reason, they make a great family pet for those who live in the city, an apartment, or in other areas where going on long walks may become a hassle.
3. Beagle
The adorable coloring, adventurous spirit, and high-energy nature of the Beagle have made it a favorite for families who live out of the city. They are an incredibly active breed and are gentle enough to be a safe family dog as well. The breed is incredibly intelligent and can become destructive if not given enough room to run and express themselves, however, so be sure to avoid Beagles if you do not have the outdoor property they so desperately desire.
4. Golden Retriever
Almost as popular as Labs, Goldens are from a highly similar bloodline and are one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world. Their cuddly nature, loyalty, and soft mouths (which help prevent damage in the case of a dog bite), all mix to ensure they are excellent family pets. If your children love to run outside and play fetch, a golden retriever is one of the best choices you can make.
5. Irish Setter
Irish Setters are known for their highly distinctive copper-red fur and beautiful hairstyles. Often referred to as “Big Reds,” the breed is hyper-intelligent and can be trained to do just about any task other breeds can handle. Like the Beagle, it prefers open spaces, and can also make a great hunting dog. Despite this, however, it has the temperament and friendliness needed to make it a fantastic family pet.
6. Pug
Pugs are well-known for their adorable (if strange) look. The smushed face, odd breathing, and goofy tails all mix to make a cute mutant of a creature. They are even-tempered, loving, and only need moderate exercise, making them a great breed for nearly any living situation. While they make great family pets, their breed can experience more frequent health issues later in life, so be sure to consider this fact.
7. Newfoundland
The first thing most people notice about Newfoundlands is their extremely massive size. Despite looking intimidating at first glance, however, Newfoundlands are the exact definition of a gentle giant. They love children, are incredibly intelligent, and enjoy quality time with families, making them another top-tier family pet. That being said, their size makes their lifespans shorter than many other breeds, so this is another breed that comes with some serious health concerns to consider.
8. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs have become increasingly popular over the past decade, and it’s not hard to see why. They have a similar appeal (and look) as Pugs but have a more athletic and distinct personality. Similar to other breeds of Bulldog, the French Bulldog is easy-going and can make a great family pet for families that are not able to frequently walk their pet long distances. Additionally, the French Bulldog is known for being one of the smartest small dog breeds in the world.
Your Forever Friend is Waiting
Even after they’re gone, dogs stay in our hearts forever. A great family pet is one of life’s greatest joys, and they inevitably teach everyone in the family lessons about compassion, responsibility, and enjoying life. If you’re looking for a family pet that will be safe, easy to train, and a joy to be around, any of these eight amazing breeds will be certain to impress you and your family.
