Find the Perfect Dog
Terriers and spaniels and retrievers—with hundreds of dog breeds to choose from, how can you be sure you're adopting the right one for your family? Doing research ahead of time is sure to help you pinpoint the breed that will fit right in with your brood. Find out if you're barking up the right tree with this list of the 10 most family-friendly dogs.
Labradoodle
This charismatic, curly haired hybrid boasts the best of all worlds, says Dr. Tracy Akner, a Manhattan-based veterinarian with 12 years of experience. Says Akner, "The poodle [breed] makes them smarter, and the Lab side makes them fun and mushy and playful." Another bonus is that they're often hypoallergenic, which simplifies things for many families.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These floppy-eared sweeties have been in style ever since Charlotte adopted one on "Sex and the City," and we can see why their appeal has lasted. After all, its sweet, sociable temperament makes this breed a hit with people of all ages and other dogs alike. "Cavalier King Charles spaniels are very good-natured," says Akner.
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Labrador Retriever
Why has this classic breed been at the top of the American Kennel Club's "Most Popular Breeds" list for 21 years in a row? Let us count the ways. "A Lab is a great dog for families," says Akner, citing the gentle, calm disposition and loyal nature as their top family-friendly traits. Labrador retrievers are also easy to train and love to be active.
French Bulldog
French bulldogs are sure to steal your family's heart. Why should you say "oui" to these adorable, plucky pups? "One thing that makes them a good family dog is that they're friendly to everyone as opposed to glomming on to just one family member like some breeds do," Akner says.
Boxer
Just nickname these medium-size dogs "Old Faithful," since they're known for being especially loyal. According to the American Kennel Club, their actual name comes from the 19th century, when boxers were bred to dogfight and would stand on their hind legs to "box." Today these dogs are popular with families everywhere for their protective, patient nature with children.
Irish Setter
It's playtime! This high-energy breed will keep your kids busy in the backyard all day, whether they're playing fetch or brushing his glossy red coat. The Irish setter loves to have a great time and be around people it loves. There will never be a dull moment with this dog in tow.
Beagle
Your kids likely already know and love the oh-so-regal beagle, thanks to Snoopy, but this dog is just as lovable in real life. "Beagles are great little dogs. They're definitely oldies but goodies," says Akner. Though Akner acknowledges they tend to be on the "yappy" side, she also touts their friendly, easygoing nature and genetic good health as great family-friendly attributes.
Havanese
Have allergies … or just a really expensive couch? Try a Havanese, an irresistibly cute toy breed known for its non-shedding coat. According to the American Kennel Club, the Havanese is growing in popularity as a family pet. Why? It's affectionate, smart, quiet and can be equally happy exercising or relaxing in your lap. (And it's a good guess your kids will love that it looks like a cuddly stuffed animal.)
Golden Retriever
If your family wants a friend for life, the golden retriever is your guy (or gal). "Golden retrievers have tons of personality," says Akner. This breed is incredibly popular with families and is often viewed as the quintessential American pet (sorry, Lassie), thanks to its gentle, playful nature and eager-to-please attitude.
Greyhound
For families busy tending to newborns, Akner suggests adopting a dog that doesn't necessarily need a lot of activity. Enter the loyal, intelligent greyhound: "They're sprinters, so they run extremely fast, but don't actually need tons of exercise," she says. "They are actually very docile, quiet dogs."
Rescue Pups
Don't discount rescued dogs as fantastic family members—adopting a dog is a great decision many families make. "One myth is that if you go to the best breeder and get the best line, you'll get a great family dog," Akner says. "Dogs are individuals, just like babies—and there is just as much of a chance they could be bad-tempered or sick from a breeder as from a shelter."
A Word to the Wise
When choosing a new four-legged friend, Akner suggests selecting the more sociable members of the bunch. "Some people will look at the dog cowering in the corner and think it's vulnerable and cute, but that often signifies behavioral problems," she advises. "You definitely want to adopt a dog that is outgoing." It's also vital to ask how much exercise your new pup will require and be sure its needs realistically fit into your family routine.
