Best Dogs for Families

Often when parents consider adding a dog to their family the trusty golden retriever is the first breed that springs to mind. But there are a number of other small and medium-sized dogs for a family too. Today, our Statesboro vets share a few family-friendly, non-guard dog, breeds that you may want to consider.  

Picking the Best Dog Breed for Your Family

When 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 best dog for family life, here are a few of our favorite breeds:

English Bulldog

English bulldogs weigh between 50 and 55 pounds and are less energetic than many other dog breeds, making them ideal for apartments and smaller homes. These people-loving puppies seek out social interactions with their family and are content to simply cuddle up on the couch and watch a movie. English bulldogs are a gentle, dependable breed that can make wonderful family pets.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This lively but gentle breed's compact size of about 10-18 lbs makes it ideal for smaller homes or apartments. Cavaliers get along well with children and other dogs. They can be both playful and cuddly making this sweet-natured pooch a great pet for kids of many ages and energy levels.

Boston Terrier

These people-loving bundles of fun weigh about 25 pounds or less and come with their own easy-to-care-for "tuxedo" coats. This charming dog breed adapts well to apartment living and makes a great companion for children of all ages, as it enjoys playing with children and going for short walks.

Irish Setter

The strikingly beautiful Irish setter is a slightly larger breed to consider. This breed typically weighs around 65 pounds and makes an excellent family pet. These dogs are lively, intelligent, and full of mischief. Irish Setters enjoy chasing balls and going for long runs, but they also enjoy playing with children in the backyard. If you have energetic children, they will enjoy spending time with an Irish Setter!

Beagle

The Beagle is a great medium-sized dog for families. This medium-sized dog weighs between 18 and 30 pounds and enjoys spending time with its owners, playing games, and going for walks. Beagles are intelligent and loving dogs who make excellent family pets if they receive adequate family interaction and exercise. Beagles are not suitable for families who spend a lot of time away from home.

Pug

Your family will love these adorable little characters! Pugs are pretty happy to just eat and sleep. If your children 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 just the right breed for your family. 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 content.

The Mutt

The ideal dog for your family 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. Mutts also tend to be less susceptible to genetic diseases, and less expensive. If you are considering a mutt for your family be sure to take your time to visit local animal shelters and be patient in your search for the right dog to fit in with your family life. Often shelter workers can provide you with a doggie report card that lays out all of the known personality quirks of the pooch you're interested in. 

Once you have found the best family pet dog for your troop, remember that preventive veterinary care is the key to providing your pet with its best shot at a long and healthy life. If your new family member is due for annual care, give us a call to book an appointment. Keeping Statesboro pets healthy is our passion.