Have you been considering adding a new furry friend to your family? Here, our Fairhaven vets recommend some breeds of dog that may make a great fit for your family and your lifestyle.
Picking the Best Dog Breed for Your Family
When looking for a canine companion for your kids, choosing a breed with qualities that match your family's personality is important. So too is finding a breed that matches well with your child's energy level. Does your child want a pet they can run around the yard with, or a companion to cuddle up on the sofa with?
Be sure to take available space at home into consideration also. Do you have loads of space or is your home on the tiny side?
Our Fairhaven vets at New England Animal Hospital want to help you find the best family dog for your kids, so here are a few of our favorite kid-friendly dog breeds.
Bernese Mountain Dog
If your family is looking for a big dog, your kids will love this sweet-natured fluffy breed. Bernese Mountain Dogs typically weigh between 70-100lbs, and in spite of their size, have a reputation for being gentle with kids. One word of warning - these big beautiful dogs are major shedders.
Boston Terrier
Weighing in at about 25 pounds or less, 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 small dog breed adapts well to apartment living and makes a great companion for children of all ages.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
At about 10-18 lbs, the compact size of this lively but gentle breed makes it a great dog for smaller homes or apartments. Cavaliers tend to get along well with kids and other dogs. They can be both playful and cuddly making this sweet-natured pooch and a great pet for kids of many ages and energy levels.
Labrador Retriever
Still one of the most popular family pets out there - with good reason. Gentle, loyal and fun, the labrador retriever can be a great dog for kids! Labs just adore spending time with people - all people - and will become your child's best friend in no time. That said, it's important to ensure that labs get plenty of exercise or they can begin to get into mischief. These dogs vary somewhat in stature but generally weigh between 55 - 80 lbs.
Beagle
The Beagle is one of the best medium-sized dogs for family life. This mid-sized pooch typically weighs in at between 18-30 lbs and adores spending time with its people, playing games, and going for walks. Beagles are smart and loving dogs that 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.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 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.
Newfoundland
Sweet, loyal and patient are just some of the words that best describe this fluffy giant. This delightful breed has a real affinity for kids and is often referred to as a 'nanny dog' due to its gentle patience with children. Weighing in between 100 -150 lbs you will need space if you plan to get a Newfoundland for your family, and it's important to note that as with many giant breeds, Newfs have a relatively short life expectancy of only 8 - 10 years whereas many small to medium dogs can live 15 - 20 years or in some cases even longer.
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.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.