Are you looking for the perfect family pet? If so, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve compiled a list of the Top 20 family dogs that are sure to make your home complete.
From small lap dogs to large retrievers, there is something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for an active companion or a cuddly lapdog, you’ll find the perfect pup here.
No matter your lifestyle, there is a family dog that will fit right in. If you’re looking for an active pup to join you on hikes and runs, consider a breed that loves to be outdoors. These dogs are usually larger breeds with lots of energy and stamina. They make great running partners and can even help you stay in shape!
On the other hand, if you ’re looking for a more laid-back pup, there are plenty of small breeds that would love to curl up on your lap. These dogs are usually content with just a few short walks each day and don’t require much exercise.
No matter what type of family dog you choose, it’s important to do your research before bringing one home. Make sure you understand the breed’s needs and temperament so you can give them the best possible home.
Beagles
Beagles are friendly and loving dogs. They are known to be pack members and tend to get along well with children as well as with other pets. They make excellent pets for families. Beagles are curious and love to sniff around. With their small size and their peaceful temperament you know that they will be safe around children as well.
Boxers
Many say that Boxers are one of the most popular companion pets. Their popularity is because they are loyal and very protective of their family. They have natural guard dog instincts which makes them a good watchdog for your family. Their high energy is a perfect match for young children because they love to play and spend time with children. Another great thing about these dogs is that they tend to keep themselves clean which means you don’t need to spend a lot of time grooming them.
Bulldogs
Bulldogs are loving and affectionate dogs, especially towards their family members. They are medium energy dogs that don’t need a lot of exercise. They enjoy playing with children in short bursts because they can wear out fast. Bulldogs are peaceful and calm which helps them get along with other family pets.
Poodles
Poodles love to spend a lot of time with their owners. They can sense the mood of their owners and sometimes even mimic it to cheer them up. If you have toddlers at home you can get the Toy Poodle to give your children a same size friend! Poodles may look frail but they are quite active and will be happy to play with kids.
Labrador Retrievers
Labradors are the most popular dogs in the United States. They’re so popular because of their loyalty and how easy they are to train. They love to spend time playing and getting involved with everything that their owners are doing. Families with children will enjoy having Labs because they love to cuddle and always enjoy play time. Labradors are also friendly with strangers which means you shouldn’t have to worry about them barking when you have visitors over. They are also hard-working and will follow the instructions of their owners.
Golden Retrievers
Golden Retrievers dogs are extremely friendly and affectionate with their owners. They are outgoing and will love to interact with strangers as well. Golden Retrievers are easy to train and make great pets for first-time pet owners. They love to play with children and their affectionate personality ensures that you will quickly consider them another member of your family.
American Water Spaniels
American Water Spaniels are a hunting dog that’s full of energy. They need a lot of exercise and play time which can make them the right pet for children and family members who like to stay active. These dogs are also water lovers and great swimmers. They tend to be excellent watchdogs.
Collies
Collies are easy to train and can get along with children of all ages. They love being the center of attention and they are known to do funny things to get your attention. They have high exercise needs and are best for families who have an active lifestyle. Collies are extremely loyal and loving with their family. If you show affection to them, they are the type of dog to be your best friend for life!
Pugs
Pugs are the best fit for families who want to have a pet who is fond of them. These dogs thrive on human companionship and will enjoy sitting on your lap, following you around or just sleeping on the bed beside you. Young children will especially find their behavior fun and playful.
Japanese Spitz
Eager to please family members and known to be little comedians, Japanese Spitz is an amazing family-friendly dog. These dogs enjoy being around their family members and are known to be protective of them. They are playful, active, and can also get along with strangers if properly trained from early on. These dogs are intelligent and easy to train. They also love playing with children and don’t get aggressive with them.
Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons are loyal and active dogs that can handle apartment living. These dogs look small but they have a big personality that can be larger than even some big dogs. Obedient, easy to train and friendly is what makes them a companion for families.
French Bulldog
They look like a smaller version of the larger Bulldogs, these dogs are ideal for city-dwellers. They don’t need lots of exercise or playtime which lets them handle apartment life. French Bulldogs love to play with children. They will also be great lap dogs. They get along well with other pets. Bulldogs are quiet while not snoring, and don’t bark a lot.
Newfoundlands
A Newfoundland is the kindest and sweetest dog. These dogs naturally love children and are always friendly, protective and affectionate with them. This is why Newfoundlands are often called a ‘born babysitter.’ They are great learners and training them is exceptionally easy. Just like small children crave attention from family members, the Newfoundland also looks forward to spending time with family members.
Highly energetic and playful, these dogs thrive on human companionship. Dalmatians are loyal family dogs and love to play with children. They are best for families who want to spend time with their pets. These dogs are intelligent and can be trained to become great watchdogs for your family.
Bull Terriers
Bull Terriers are active dogs who enjoy playing and going on walks with their family. They quickly get attached to their family and don’t like being left alone. They are best for families who want to spend a lot of time with their pets. They are fun, entertaining and a little silly, which makes them an ideal companion for children. With the right training effort they can become great watchdogs for your family. Grooming them doesn’t take a lot of time because their short and flat coat is easy to care for.
Dalmatians
Highly energetic and playful, these dogs thrive on human companionship. Dalmatians are loyal family dogs and love to play with children. They are best for families who want to spend time with their pets. These dog
Vizslas
Families who like to stay active will love to have Vizslas as their companions. These dogs are loyal and tend to form strong bonds with their family. They are active and energetic and love to spend time playing or running outside. Families with members who are interested in sports and activities will find a great companion with these dogs. These dogs like to stay busy. Vizslas are also obedient and smart. Their short coat makes them low maintenance dogs.
Basset Hounds
Basset Hounds are an easygoing dog that loves to be around people. They get along well with other dogs and pets which makes them an ideal addition for families with pets. Basset Hounds are playful, which makes them a good pet for families with children. Basset Hounds are not very active and a short walk with their owners is usually enough to take care of their exercise needs. These dogs have one of the longest ears which makes them a great cuddle buddy for some owners!
Irish Wolfhounds
One of the tallest dogs, the Irish Wolfhound is ideal for families who have a large house or a big yard. They are calm and form strong friendships with their family. Their large size might make them look like outdoor dogs but they are house dogs. These dogs are best for families with big backyards that the dog can run and play in. Friendly with both children and strangers, the Irish Wolfhound is a great pet for large families.
Yorkshire Terriers
Yorkies are loving, affectionate and devoted to their family, making them incredible companion pets for families. They love and thrive on the attention of their owners. Yorkies are loyal and considered great therapy dogs. Their small size also makes them a perfect pet for apartments. The best part about Yorkies is that they are fast learners which makes training them easy.
Irish Setters
Irish Setters are enthusiastic and friendly dogs. They are outgoing and love to be with people, including strangers. They are also great watchdogs and are usually always alert. They like to stay active and play. Large families will enjoy their active personality because your family can spend a lot of time playing with them. They are slow to mature and may behave like a puppy even after they have grown up. The good part is that this doesn’t affect their training because they are intelligent and easy to train.