Some of The Best Dog Breeds For Families

An obvious choice for a new family dog may be the trusty golden retriever, but there are a number of other breeds that can make fabulous family pets too. Here are a few family friendly dog breeds you may not have thought of, from our Memphis vets.  

Picking a Dog Breed for Your Family

If you're trying to decide on the right breed of dog for your family, it's important to look beyond the cuteness factor and consider more important factors such as the overall temperament of the breed and how much space and exercise the breed requires to be content.

Take your time to find a dog that suits the space you live in, as well as the energy level of your family, and how much time each family member is willing to commit to training your new canine companion.

To help get you off to a good start picking the dog breed that is best for your family, here are a few of our favorite breeds:

Pug

• Your family will love these adorable little characters! Pugs are pretty happy to just eat and sleep. If your kids are small, or lower energy and would appreciate a dog that will play with them indoors then curl up beside them to watch tv, a pug may be the right breed for your family. Typically weighing around 15 lbs, this is a breed that doesn't need much space, and only requires a couple of short walks each day to be happy.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

• Weighing in at between 10-18 lbs, the portable size of this lively but gentle breed makes it the ideal breed for smaller homes or apartments. Cavaliers tend to get along well with kids and other dogs, loving to play and snuggle in equal measure. This breed is sweet natured and can make great pets for kids of many ages and energy levels.

Boston Terrier

• At just under 25 pounds, these people-loving bundles of fun come with their own easy to care for "tuxedo" coats. Happy to play with the kids and go for short walks, this charming dog breed adapts well to apartment living and makes a great companion for kids of all ages.

Beagle

• The medium sized beagle typically weighs in at between 18-30 lbs and adores spending time with its people, playing games, and going for walks. These smart and loving dogs can make terrific family pets provided that they get plenty of family interaction and exercise. Beagles are not appropriate for families who are out of the house a lot. 

English Bulldog

• English bulldogs weigh in at about 50-55 lbs, and tend to be less energetic than many other breeds, making it suitable for apartments and smaller homes. These people loving dogs seek out social interactions with their family and are happy to just cuddle-up on the couch to watch a movie and relax. English bulldogs are a sweet, gentle and dependable breed that can make excellent family pets.

Irish Setter

• This strikingly beautiful breed typically weighs in at around 65 lbs and can make a great family pet. These dogs are lively, intelligent and have a great sense of mischief. Irish Setters love to chase balls, go for long runs, but also enjoy playing in the back yard with children. If you have high-energy kids, they will love spending time with an Irish Setter!

The Mutt

• Your ideal family dog may be patiently waiting for you at the local animal shelter. Mixed-breed Mutts can make loving and loyal family dogs! These dogs can be as good with children as purebred dogs, and tend to be less susceptible to genetic diseases, and less expensive. Take your time to visit local animal shelters and be patient in your search for the right Mutt for your family. Often shelter workers can provide you with a doggie report card which lays out all of the known personality quirks of any given dog.