The best family dogs tend to have similar characteristics. It is true that one of the big variables when choosing a family dog is, in effect, the type of family you have. With that said, let’s take a look at what traits, in general, we would consider desirable.
Families are often loud and busy places, so we need to make sure our dog fits in socially. Keep in mind that your pet will meet people and other dogs with whom they may not be familiar. So while a shy dog may accept immediate family, there may be difficulties in accepting playmates or family friends and their pets. The best family dogs are often used to being handled on a daily basis and comfortable with their surroundings. When selecting a puppy, look for one that exudes calm and seems relaxed. One test to determine this is to cradle a puppy upside down as you would a baby. Some fighting is normal in this situation, but the pup should calm down after a short time.
Find a dog that can tolerate noise and won’t panic. This is particularly desirable if you actually have children of any age. If your dog reacts to most child-related noises or shocks, he will become very restless and nervous. You can easily test this on a pup by dropping some kitchen utensils or a set of keys nearby. What you are looking for is a dog that does not realize the fact or if so, recovers to investigate what happened. Anything other than this reaction is probably not a good candidate for you.
The best family dogs should be sensitive to touch, tolerant of distractions, and slightly submissive. A great way to test this is to hold the dog’s paw, grasp the area between your fingers, and apply pressure. What kind of response do you get? Does he overreact, become very verbal, or even start biting? Some of this may be acceptable if the dog recovers quickly, relaxes, and may even start licking. This is the preferable reaction.
Lastly, the best family dogs are not very territorial. Those that are may be a problem for you. We want a dog that understands his position in the “family pack.” That well-being, food, care and even entertainment are derived from this territory owned by the herd. An alpha orientation is not consistent with the type of dog you want.
Let’s take a look at some of the breeds that are generally considered great family dogs:
- Newfoundland: This is a sweet big dog. They are known for their patience and need for weekly bushings. Provide them with daily walks and plenty of space to spread out.
- Papillon: Wonderful little companions perfect for urban families. They are highly intelligent, like to have fun, and are always looking to please their masters. They are somewhat delicate so be careful with small or less disciplined children.
- Golden Retriever – These dogs are medium to large in size. Great family dogs, patient, calm, easy to train, etc. Loved by all. By the way, not necessarily a great protector.
- Pug: “a face only a mother could love?” Maybe that’s what makes them adorable. They are calm and have a wonderful temperament. They are well built and can withstand the demands of young children.
- Labrador Retriever – These are hardworking and enthusiastic companions. They are usually needed but that’s what children are for. They just can’t love you too much. Like the outdoors.
- Dashshund: Yes! The “hot dog” dog. They love their masters and they love that their masters love them. Shedding is not a problem with them. They have very short hair, therefore they are low maintenance.
- Basset Hound – Not a bundle of power, this breed would rather spend its days on the front porch. He doesn’t need a lot of exercise so watch his diet to control his weight.
- Beagle – This is a great breed for the larger family, as their need for attention is over the top. I just can’t find a more adorable dog. They can be slow to train. Not the smartest breed, but who cares!
Well, there you have it. The best family dogs are wonderful friends, loyal family members, calm and stable canines. Do your research, try out your puppy options, and get ready to share your life with a very good friend.