Are considering welcoming a new canine companion into your home and family? In this blog, our Hoquiam vets talk about 13 breeds of dogs that might make a great addition to your family.
What Dog Breed is Right For Your Family?
When deciding on the best breed of dog for you and your family, you must look past the adorable looks and take more important elements into consideration such as the amount of space the breed requires, how much exercise the dog needs, and the overall temperament of the breed. Take your time looking for a dog that is appropriate for the size of your home, as well as your family's energy level, and how much time each member of your family will be willing to commit to training your new pup. To help you decide on the best breed of dog for your family we are sharing a list of our favorite kid-friendly dog breeds:
Newfoundland
If you live in a large home and are looking for a dog that will help fill space, the large Newfoundland might be a good choice for your family. This sweet-natured dog is also called 'Nature's babysitter'. They are intelligent dogs who love to be around kids. Newfoundlands can make an excellent family pet.
Irish Setter
Weighing around 65 lbs, this breed is more than just incredibly beautiful! They are lively, intelligent, and have a great mind of mischief. Irish Setters love chasing balls, going for long runs, and enjoys playing in the backyard with kids. If your children are high-energy they will love spending time with this breed.
Golden Retriever
If you have kids that will love throwing a ball and playing with the family pup or will enjoy teaching the dog new tricks, this may be the right breed for you. Ranging in weight from 55-75 lbs Golden Retrievers are confident, friendly, smart, kind, and loyal, making them perfect for family life.
Dachshund
Energetic, courageous, and independent, the dachshund was bred to be quite multi-talented. Dachshunds are not necessarily the optimal choice when there are kids in the family, as the breed is known for being aggressive at times. There are a few health problems that are common in the Dachshund too. This isn't a good breed choice for new pet owners.
English Bulldog
This breed doesn't have as much energy as the ones noted above and weigh about 50-55 lbs, making them suitable for smaller homes and apartments. These dogs actively look for social interactions with their people and love cuddling up with the family to relax and watch a movie. English bulldogs make sweet, gentle, and dependable family pets.
German Shepherd
Loyal, protective, and versatile, the German Shepherd was voted the second most popular breed globally, just behind the Labrador Retriever. These dogs are excellent with kids and other pets but are often cautious around strangers. Known for their intelligence, German Shepherds make excellent working dogs.
Beagle
At between 18-30 lbs this medium-sized breed craves spending time with its people, playing games, and going for walks. These smart dogs can make very loving family pets when they are given lots of exercise and family interaction. This is not the best breed for families who are out of the house a lot.
Boston Terrier
Weigh on average just under 25 pounds, these people-loving dogs come with their own easy-to-manage "tuxedo" coats. They are content playing with the kids and going for short walks. This charming breed adapts easily to apartment living and makes a great companion for children. Boston terriers have a complete personality your kids will love.
Boxer
This breed is one of the more energetic, friendly, and loyal breeds out there. Boxers have long been known as one of the best house dogs for families, especially if you have kids. Boxers are low-maintenance dogs and require a minimum amount of grooming. They are playful and affectionate with children, but their health needs monitoring since they are prone to certain genetic diseases.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Weighing between 10-18 lbs, this portable size pup is lively but gentle making them an ideal breed for smaller homes or apartments. Cavaliers get along well with kids and other dogs, loving to play and snuggle in equal measure. These sweet-natured dogs can be great pets for kids of any age and energy level.
Pug
These adorable little pups love to eat and sleep. If your kids are small, or have lower energy levels and would appreciate a dog that will play indoors, then curl up with them to watch some TV, a pug might be the right breed for your family. At approximately 15 lbs, this breed doesn't need much space just a couple of short walks a day.
The Mutt
Mutts are mixed-breed dogs that can be fantastic family dogs! These dogs often come equipped with the best traits of many kid-friendly breeds including a gentle loving nature and loyalty. These dogs can be as good with children as purebred dogs and are generally less susceptible to genetic diseases, and are less expensive. The perfect breed for your child could be waiting for you at your local animal shelter.
French Bull Dog
This small breed dog is very adaptable and perfect for city-dwelling families. They are very easygoing as well as not very active, and respond well to training. But overall, they are generally very affectionate and great for new families,