The Best Family Dogs

Dogs are man’s best friend and for good reason too! Not only are they relentlessly loyal, abundantly cute, and bundles of fun, but they are renowned for being excellent around children. The best family dogs encourage children to exercise, appreciate the outdoors, and learn to look after something that isn’t themselves. It can be a big decision deciding what dog to introduce into your family as there are so many loveable breeds, all worthy of a home. However, some dogs prefer the company of adults while some thrive among children and with that in mind I have compiled a list of the best family dogs! It is worth noting that I am a firm believer in the words “Adopt don’t shop”. As someone who grew up surrounded by rescue dogs from Battersea, I can vouch for how rewarding an experience it is looking after them and giving them the home they deserve. However, if you are after a specific breed, make sure you do your research first and find a reputable breeder.

The Best Family Dogs: Things to consider

1. Size

   This may be obvious but make sure to choose a dog size that fits in with your home environment and lifestyle. If you live in a small house and have a small car then perhaps the Bernese Mountain Dog isn’t for you.

2. Temperament

   When choosing the best family dogs, temperament is an imperative element to consider! Children can be fairly boisterous at times so you may want to choose a breed that is known for being calm. Alternatively, you may want a more athletic dog if you’re a family that loves the great outdoors!

3. Energy

   It is important to be realistic with how often you are going to be able to walk them. Dogs who are under-exercised can often develop behavioural problems down the line due to pent up energy and frustration.

The Best Family Dogs

Note: I have also avoided ranking the breeds in order of personal preference as your choice will vary on your specific needs once you have done your own research.

1. Cockapoo

What this dog lacks in size, they more than make up for with their playful personality! A cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, they truly have the best qualities of each breed. Affectionate and playful like the Spaniel and loyal and easy to train like the poodle. They require a good amount of exercise and are excellent around children. There’s a reason they’re so popular!

2. Labrador

A family favourite this one and rightly so! They are easy to train, gentle, and eager to please. On the whole they are fairly low maintenance so are great for people with a busy lifestyle, although they do need quite a lot of feeding!

3. Coton de Tulear

This breed is one of the doggy world’s best-kept secrets. This small dog is a born entertainer and can be taught to perform tricks such as walking on its hind legs! They are easy to train, highly intelligent, and very inquisitive dogs who love making new friends. The Coton de Tulear loves being involved in every aspect of family life and thrives in the company of small children. Just make sure they learn to play with this small breed respectfully.

4. Border Terrier

Border Terriers rose to popularity in the 19th Century where they were used for driving out prey on hunts. They are renowned for their cheeky, affectionate and independent natures, and as long as they are well introduced, Border Terriers can be the perfect sidekick to your child!

5. Golden Retriever

With a beautiful golden coat and a personality to match, this is among the best family dogs you can get, especially if you’re into larger breeds. They are the definition of a gentle giant and are great for people who are first time dog owners due to their calm yet playful temperament. They are extremely tolerant around children and very rarely show aggressive behaviour.

6. Poodle

While the Poodle may be known for its love of being pampered, they are still a working breed that loves interacting with humans. They come in three sizes; toy, miniature and standard, so you can decide which fits best into your lifestyle and family. Trained correctly, Poodles can make fantastic family dogs.

7. Bernese Mountain Dog

Having grown up with a Bernese, I can vouch for how amazing this breed is. Not only are they unbelievably cute and fluffy to look at, but they have one of the sweetest temperaments around. Extremely playful and energetic, they would do best in a home that can walk them regularly.

8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This breed was awarded their royal title when it became known that the King during the Stuarts adored them and wouldn’t be seen without them. So if they’re fit for royalty, they’ll certainly be fit for your family! Their gentle and kind temperaments mean they are perfect around little children and they are just as happy curling up next to you on the sofa as they are on a walk so are ideal for busy families.

This list will hopefully give you a rough idea of the best family dogs and which one is for you, but it is important to do your own research as well! Proper training is a must for any of the best family dogs, particularly if you have young children. It is also worth noting that your children must also be taught how to interact and play with them, as even the calmest of dogs might react negatively to boisterous behaviour. Here are some ideas of the best kids holidays where you can bring you dog.