Whether you feel that it is time to add a canine companion to your family or your kids have been pestering you for ages about getting a pet, you have finally decided to get a dog! There are so many breeds available, and each has their own particular temperament and personality. So, how do decide which breed would work best with your family?
Research is essentially before you pick out your family dog. From research and price range, doggy parents-to-be have many things to consider before investing in a pet. Here are some characteristics you should look out for before buying a dog:
- Space – do you live in an apartment or a house with a big backyard? Bigger dogs often need more space to roam around, while miniatures are quite content to live in a more confined area.
- Personality of the breed - especially if you have little children around the house, the family dog should be tolerant of the occasional ear-pull or hard patting.
- Allergies – many children (and adults) are highly sensitive to animal dander, so make sure to find hypoallergenic breed of dog if you know someone in your family is allergic.
After these factors have been taken into consideration, it’s finally time to pick out a breed! Here are the top five tried and true breeds that make wonderful family pets:
- Golden Retriever – these dogs are notoriously friendly and great with small children. Originally bred to help hunt birds, the Retriever loves to frolic outdoors. They are known for their loyalty and devotion to their family.
- Labrador Retriever – the lab is an excellent choice for active families because they seem to have a boundless amount of energy. They love to run, swim, and play, and have natural protective instincts.
- Poodles – the poodle is one of the most highly intelligent dogs, which makes it an easy breed to train. They’re also well known for being great for families with allergies because they don’t shed.
- Pugs – these little guys are affectionate, adorable, and hardly pugnacious. They’re very even-tempered, great with kids, affectionate, and love being part of a big family.
- Boston terrier – the Boston is a small black and white terrier that thrives on attention. While they display quick bursts of energy, these terriers generally have calm temperaments, making them an excellent choice for older children.
Remember that each individual dog is different and may not live up to your expectations of the breed. Make sure you spend plenty of time with your potential family pet before you make the big decision!
