Top Family Dogs

So you are looking to make an addition to your family of the four-legged canine variety. It is first imperative you do your homework first, so you know what breed is right for you and decide if you have the time to devote to a pet. Please don’t bring home any animal unless you can provide it with the time and care it deserves.

That being said, here are some of the best rated “family” dogs to choose from. Do your research and see if any of these would be a suitable fit for you.

Bulldogs are strong and sturdy, so they are a good choice for kids. They can put up with quite a bit. This doesn’t mean you should allow your children to torment or tease them; children need to respect your pets. These dogs also fit well in apartments and homes.

Beagles are a great choice for families with kids. They are energetic, friendly, strong, and can out play your children! They are protective and do have a tendency to howl…which can be amusing or annoying.

Bull Terriers are best known for Spuds McKenzie, Buster Brown’s Pal. They make excellent baby sitters, are intelligent, energetic and friendly. They can take a lot of roughhousing while remaining composed. They are energetic and require lots of play time and are very protective of them.

Collie is best known for Lassie. Their long coats can be high maintenance but these beautiful dogs love nothing more than to make their humans happy. They are intelligent and obedient and make perfect companions.

Newfoundlands are very large but are so gentle natured. They do tend to shed and drool but do well with large areas for them to roam around in. They make outstanding family dogs that never turn an eye on their loved ones.

Vizslas come from Europe, mainly Hungary. They are gentle, loyal, quiet and affectionate. They require a lot of exercise — but favour spending time indoors with its family. They are eager to learn and easy to train.

Irish Setters have a great deal of energy and are amazing with kids due to their playful nature. Unfortunately, they have shorter life spans than other large breeds as most live to about 12 years of age.

Poodles, the standard variety, make good pets because of their size. This larger size of the breed is great for those will allergies as they don’t shed as much and are good-natured, which is a benefit for those with children.

Labrador Retrievers are the most common and popular breed around. They are great for families, training, hunting, service…you name it. They are also playful, protective, loving, and reliable.

Golden Retrievers are the same as above except with a much shorter life span then the Irish Setter — twelve years at the most, but ten more likely. They are patient and wonderful around children due to their high energy.

Mutts shouldn’t be looked over. Mixed breeds are loving, loyal and are looking for a forever home too! Go down to your local humane society, shelter or rescue and see what they have. You could bring home a great pet that would love you more than you know.

General rules: Larger breeds are better for children as the toy breeds and smaller ones can end up being hurt. You need to set ground rules as with human children so that everyone can live in harmony.

"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." ~ Mahatma Gandhi

Please always do your research and consult with your veterinarian before taking any home remedies or supplements or following any treatment suggested on this page. Only your vet can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or to diagnose your pets particular medical issue.