Tiny dogs make the best family companions as they are created primarily to sit on the lap. However, many working, herding and guarding dogs can also make the best puppies for toddlers to grow up with. Small dog breeds are ideally practical for families-they eat less, require little space, are easy to train and can be taken along on one’s travels. Apartment dwellers usually love the best small dogs for kids which they need not take down in elevators for walks. Many kid friendly dog breeds don’t shed and can be even trained at home to use the litter box. So today we will be enlisting 15 of the best dog breeds families love.
Best dog breeds for families
If you are in the market for the best dog breeds for families, then browse through these top 15 family dogs everyone will appreciate.
1. Beagles
This intelligent small dog is the perfect companion for small suburban families. However, this is no lapdog; he needs exercise and intellectual stimulus. They are often tough to train since they have independent sense of thinking. But with treats, praise and consistency, you should be able to get a friendly, obedient dog that sees itself as a full-fledged member of the family.
2. Bearded Collie
This is a great choice for small and large energetic families having older kids. In case of younger kids, the Beardie might try to herd them by nipping at heels or backsides. However, bearded collies are great companions and with plenty of exercise, socialization and training, you are sure to have a great house-pet that also makes a watchful guard dog.
3. Bedlington terrier
This is a medium family dog that is bright, independent and deserving constant stimulation. It is fast, athletic and loves children. They tend to bark and dig a lot and also need special grooming and haircut. Thankfully, this is one of the best kid friendly dog breeds that don’t shed much and do not have the doggy odor.
4. Australian terrier
Aussie terrier makes an excellent indoor and outdoor family dog. It loves and guards its family fiercely and dislikes strangers. This intensely curious pet will also quickly gel with other dogs and is affectionate and quick to bond with all family members. Its stubborn streak and fierce independent nature can make it difficult to train.
5. Lhasa Apso
This breed’s intelligence, loyalty and fun-loving nature are some of the traits that make it one of the best dog breeds for families. It does well in spacious abodes as well as small apartments. Lhasa is a small independent dog breed which makes great companion to kids and socializes well with other family pets. They understand commands well and with treats and praise are quite easy to train.
6. Boston terrier
A sweet temperament and lively disposition are some of the characteristics that make the Boston terrier one of the best dog breeds for kids. This pet is boisterous, sociable, patient and enthusiastic with kids and other family pets. They are often called as the epitome of family companion dogs and were bred to be that way. Boston terriers do well in obedience schools and are small enough to pick up and carry.
7. Dachshund
The little dog is a fine and playful children’s pet and lovable family companion dog. They are cheerful, eager to learn and playful. Low-key and consistent training can make Dachshunds wonderful, obedient and family-oriented pets.
8. Irish setter
This ‘red dog’ is famous for its overwhelming love for its family and its playfulness. Apartment dwellers cannot get this dog- it needs a fenced yard and plenty of exercise to burn off its energy. The Irish setter also needs plenty of consistent training. It is extremely family oriented and very good with kids.
9. Bulldog
This breed treasures its family, is easy to live with and thrives on companionship. They get along well with cats and other family pets but need consistent exercise and careful training. Bulldogs are full of determination, character and tenacity.
10. Golden retrievers
How can any list of best dog breeds for kids not have the Golden retriever in it? This most popular dog breed loves sport, swimming and its family. It is easy going and loves kids. On the downside, it does require a large space/backyard, plenty of grooming and exercise.
11. Poodles
Smart, friendly, intelligent and extrovert; this family oriented dog makes an excellent pet for seniors and retirees. They are born with a natural talent to amuse people. Poodles are great companions for older kids.
12. German shepherds
Smart, brave and loyal, German Shepherds are big beautiful family oriented dogs. They are heroic, alert and bold and will do just about anything to protect the people they love. Many Germans have been known to perform heroic acts like: pulling kids from busy streets, scaring off robbers by barking, warning their family about fires, and even pulling people out of car wrecks.
13. Labrador retrievers
A well trained Labrador retriever is gentle, loving, non-aggressive, intelligent, adaptable and eager to please. Labs and kids go great together and as long as s/he is well socialized and your kids know how to treat dogs with love, kindness and respect, then they are bound to have a lot of fun together.
14. Boxers
Boxers are the ‘clowns’ of dog world. They love people and make active, fun loving companions. Boxers love kids and they love to clown around. Your energetic pet will need plenty of exercise and moderate grooming.
15. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This trusted spunky companion dog loves nothing more than being around its owners. They are incredibly social, friendly, non aggressive, fearless and sporting. Your Cavalier will be willing to repay your care and love with complete devotion.
And that completes our top 15 family dogs which will bring you years of joy and happiness.
