Dogs are one of the best companions for humans, and they offer a lot of benefits. They provide you with unconditional love, make you feel happy and safe, and can even help lower your blood pressure! But not all dogs are created equal – some breeds are better suited to families than others.
This list is based on personal experience and thorough research into which dog breeds have been deemed the perfect family pet by veterinarians, breeders, animal shelters, rescue groups, dog trainers, and other experts in the field.
What Makes Labrador Retrievers Great Dogs?
Labradors have a long history of being great family-friendly dog breeds. They are gentle, loving, and intelligent, which makes them easy to train and very obedient. Labs rank as the most popular dog breed in America for a good reason!
Key Traits:
outgoing
eager to please
intelligent
loving
obedient
Personalities of Pug Dogs
Pugs get their name from an old word that meant “fool” or “dullard.” While these days they’re affectionately called Mops, canines with short faces like pugs are still extremely cute – and smart! Their intelligence combined with calm demeanor makes them ideal companions for families looking to add a furry friend into their home.
Key Traits:
calm
small
fun-loving
affectionate
Should I get a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of the oldest breeds on this list and has been around since at least 1350 A.D. They are sweet and gentle, making them perfect for families with children or the elderly! There can be some health issues with Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Key Traits:
gentle
graceful
patient
adaptable
sweet-tempered
Golden Retriever Personality Traits
Golden Retrievers rank high on just about every list of best family dogs, and it’s easy to see why. This intelligent, friendly dog breed has a long history as hunting companions, making them excellent swimmers and incredibly obedient. Their soft nature also makes them great around all ages of children too! Although Goldens are great family pets, be sure to research potential health issues that are common for the breed.
obedient
friendly
affectionate
playful
devoted
intelligent
Lovable Labrador Mixes
Labs get their name from an actual place in Canada where they were first bred several centuries ago by fishermen who wanted to create a dog breed that could help pull heavy nets filled with fish back onto shore. Today these strong pups aren’t good at pulling things but instead make fantastic family pets because they’re so intelligent and easy to train. They are also known for getting along well with kids, making them the perfect addition to any family home!
Key Traits:
eager to please
athletic
Yorkshire Terriers Temperament
Yorkshire terriers are small but mighty best dog breeds for families that have been labeled as one of the most energetic breeds around. That energy combined with their intelligence makes these teddy bear-like pups great options for families looking to add a dog who will keep up with all the activities they enjoy doing together, including running, hiking, or even playing fetch in your backyard! Get a sense of the financial implications of owning a Yorkshire Terrier here!
Key Traits:
energetic
intelligent
confident
independent
self-assured
How Smart are Poodles, Really?
Poodles were bred centuries ago by nobility in Germany as water retrievers which is why they excel at swimming today-and make fantastic pets for families living near lakes or other bodies of water because you’ll never have to; worry about them running off after a duck! They are also incredibly intelligent and easy to train. Know more about what's the price of a poodle today!
Key Traits:
intelligent
obedient
When you add a new member to your family, consider a pet insurance plan from Spot. Learn more about the dog insurance plans we offer.
