When looking to bring a doggo home, many families will try to find the best family dogs. But it’s a tricky search! Some families want a high-energy doggo to keep up with their boisterous family activities. Others would rather have a calm and gentle pup who will stay quiet during baby’s afternoon nap. Others still want an easy-going dog who will open up to friends, guests, and local Pet Sitters. As you can see, the criteria can shift for each family.
In this article, we’re not going to share our list of some ideal dog breeds for families. Instead, we’re going to give you a tailored search guide so that you know where to start looking. Because no matter what your family’s needs, there’s an ideal doggo out there waiting for you.
Don’t forget, every pup has a unique personality that might not align with the breed standard. While breeds are a good way to think about personality potential, it’s best to spend time with any dog before bringing them home.
Best family dogs for the small children
These are the doggos who are gentle and patient with little ones. While no dog should be left unsupervised with a child, these breeds are some of the best when in a household with small kiddos. You’ll notice, also, that we didn’t include very small dogs in this category. Small dogs are at risk of being hurt by little humans still learning how to interact with animals, so it’s best to wait until children are a little older to introduce small dog breeds.
#10 Vizsla
You might be surprised that a dog with so much energy could be so good with small children. Yet, when around babies, they’re incredibly gentle and relaxed. And with a coat as soft and silky as a Vizsla, you won’t have to worry when kids inevitably want to pet them.
#9: Bulldogs
Bulldogs are another go-with-the-flow dog ideal for small child settings. They’re patient and good-natured, and they won’t fall over or get upset if a walking toddler topples into them.
Best family dogs for an active household
With older kids and an active lifestyle, these are the top breeds to have on your list!
#8: Australian Shepherd
This high energy doggo will go the distance with your family. Whatever you have planned, whether it’s a fun excursion in the mountains or a day at the beach, an Australian Shepherd is the perfect companion. These are the best family dogs as long as they’re properly trained and regularly exercised.
#7: Maltese
These little white blurs will race you to the finish line! This is a small dog with high energy needs, and they’ll be more than willing to join whatever adventures your family is planning.
Best family dogs for tricks and training
#6: German Shepherd
German Shepherds are some of the most loyal and family-oriented dogs you can find. It’s their people-pleasing nature and trainability that have made these doggos Hollywood stars, police dogs, and perfect family pets. So, if you’ve been looking for the best family dogs for your training interests, go with this breed.
#5: Miniature Poodle
Poodles, no matter the size, are some of the most intelligent puppers out there. And their trainability has made them expert hunters as well as some of the most popular circus dogs! In a family setting, they’ll keep you laughing with their fun approach to training.
Best family dogs for optimum cuddling
Now, this is where things get interesting, right? We’re all looking for the best family dogs who will welcome us home, jump in our laps, and join the television watching cuddle puddle.
#4: Great Dane
This gentle giant has no concept of their own size. They’ll snuggle right into your personal bubble. Great Danes are affectionate and relaxed, making them some of the best family dogs for cuddling.
#3: Shih Tzu
If you’re looking for a dog that was born to cuddle, the Shih Tzu is your breed. These gentle doggos were bred for thousands of years to be lap dogs for the wealthy and powerful in China. They love a life of luxury and lazing around with their favourite humans.
Best family dogs that will surprise you
These are the dogs that you might not consider to be the best family dogs at first. But allow us to change your mind! You’ll find that these pups are ideal family dogs just waiting for their chance to shine!
#2: Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Nicknamed the “nanny dog,” this doggo with a storied past is one of the most loving and loveable family dogs. They’re great with kids, they’re friendly with newcomers, and they’re one big cuddle bug.
#1: Yorkshire Terrier
Smart, confident, and brave as any big dog, the Yorkshire Terrier is one of the best family dogs. They’ll jump at the opportunity to join your adventures, and they never run out of playtime energy. Yorkies form strong bonds with their family, making them some of the best family dogs you’ll ever meet.
What’s your favourite family dog?
Didn’t see your preferred family pup on the list? Although we can’t fit all of the best family dogs into one article, we know there are more out there! Let us know about your best family dogs in the comments!
