If you are considering adding a new dog to your household, there are many important components you should consider. Of course, its existing members is a very important one.
If there are children in your home, you should consider choosing a dog that will be playful, energetic and will tolerate any tugging, pulling or unpredictable behaviors commonly exerted by children.
Keeping in mind that extremely lovable and affectionate dogs can be found within all breeds, here are a few ones that are known for being particularly good additions to any family:
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is known for its loyalty, friendliness and active nature. This dog is both big in size and athleticism, while also having the enthusiasm and attention seeking behaviors that bode well with children. Golden Retrievers commonly love to fetch and play games, helping to keep the family active.
That said, families should also be prepared for intensive grooming and dietary needs; Golden Retrievers have a thick coat and need constant brushing and routine baths, and a healthy and well balanced diet is essential to keeping them healthy and thriving.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States and is considered an excellent choice when picking a family dog.
These dogs are very playful and love to please their owners. They have a natural instinct for obedience and are patient with most child-like play behaviors. Labradors are also protective of their owners and most of them enjoy any chance for a swim.
Labradors require a great deal of exercise and owners need to devote a considerable amount of their time bonding with these dogs. Additionally, bored Labradors have been known to get into trouble when left home alone.
Collie
The beautiful and loyal Collies, made famous by the television show “Lassie”, are known for their compatibility with family life.
These dogs are very active and love to play with both children and adults, often exhibiting their instinctual herding skills. They are intelligent, obedient and enjoy pleasing their owners. A well trained Collie rarely reacts poorly to children, strangers or other animals.
Collie owners should be aware of breed specific problems, such as drug sensitivity to some medications (i.e. Ivermectin), hip dysplasia and eye diseases.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain dogs are considered gentle giants or large teddy bears by many dog owners, which is no wonder, since they are easy-going, caring, loyal and make a great addition to any family.
Bernese Mountain dogs’ thick coats require major attention to grooming, and they are predisposed to certain health conditions, such as bone cancer. Unfortunately, these dogs have an average life expectancy of just 6-8 years.
Dalmatian
The Dalmatian has been well known in history for being hard working dogs, especially helping firefighters. Originally, Dalmatians were recognized for running along horse-drawn carriages and were thought to exert a calming effect on the horses.
This dog breed is also known for its agility, stamina and trainability. These traits contribute to the Dalmatian’s potential to be a wonderful family dog. When trained properly, Dalmatians can be very gentle, social, playful and protective of family members.
If you take the time to train this intelligent dog properly, you will benefit from a wonderful family-canine connection and your dog will surely enjoy participating in interactive family activities.
Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is a highly recognized dog breed due to its unique long coat and its appearance in several movies, including the Shaggy Dog.
Despite not being one of the most widespread dogs -the American Kennel Club ranks this breed as the 75th most popular breed-, Old English Sheepdogs can make a fantastic addition to any family.
They are gentle and well-mannered, and usually thrive with human companionship. They are also well-proportioned and have a strong body, which makes them more durable with active children.
Keep in mind that this breed needs a great deal of brushing, trimming and bathing to avoid matted and unclean fur!
Maltese
The Maltese is recognized as one of the oldest European Toy Breed canines. The Mediterranean Island Nation of Malta is where these dogs originated from and there is even record of Greek statues erected to this small dog, which usually weighs under ten pounds.
The Maltese is known for its black button nose and its long and silky white coat, with limited shedding due to a lack of undercoat. These petite canines make great family companions because they really enjoy spending time with family members and are easily transported.
Grooming is required for their longer coats and special attention should be paid to their teeth, since periodontal disease is a common concern amongst the breed.
With proper training and supervision, these dogs can make perfect play companions for younger children.
Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a stocky and sturdy breed of dog that is happiest when spending time with its human companions.
Boston Terriers bond very well with children and can handle the busy lifestyle of an active family. They are often referred to by their nickname, the “American gentleman”, and are intelligent, lively and come in five different colors, including black and white, seal and brindle.
That said, it’s important to provide this breed with consistent training to prevent unwanted stubbornness. Exercise should also be a priority for any family looking to own this wonderful breed of dog. On the other hand, grooming needs are low.
Pug
The wrinkled face and charming nature of Pugs has made them a very popular choice for dog lovers all over the world.
Pugs were originally bred in China, where their wrinkles were thought to have a pattern of significance.
Pugs are easy to get along with and generally adapt well to their owners’ lifestyles; they are great companions that love to cuddle with family members on the couch or go out for camping adventures.
It is important to keep them away from extreme temperatures, since their short noses often make it hard for them to breathe. Also, dirt and bacteria are easily trapped within Pugs’ wrinkles, so cleaning them often is a must for their owners.
Mixed breed dogs
Although not strictly a breed, it’s more than fair to include mixed breed dogs in this list, since they can also be a great choice for families. Furthermore, adoption is an extremely rewarding and life-saving decision.
There are thousands of dogs in shelters that are well-behaved, gentle and can really use a place in your family. If you are considering adoption, check with your local shelter to make sure the dog you are interested in has undergone proper behavioral evaluation. Also, keep in mind that most shelters will assist or cover the costs associated with spaying or neutering the dog, as well as the necessary vaccinations.
Fostering is also a good choice, which will allow you to temporarily house a dog to ensure he or she is a good fit prior to adopting.
It is important to have an open mind, because each dog has his or her own personality and finding one that fits your families’ lifestyle is of the utmost importance. When choosing to add a new pet to your household, it’s important to consider the size of the dog, the grooming and dietary needs, the common health conditions and the activity level of your family. After all, any dog breed can be a loving family dog with the proper training and disposition.