Are you looking to add a new member to the family? Are your children old enough to ask for a dog? Are you going crazy when your children keep asking for a dog? Are you worried about how a new furry friend will change your family dynamic?
Well… look no further! Here is a list of the 8 best family friendly dog breeds that can be a wonderful addition to your family.
1. Labrador Retriever
I might be biased when I say that Labrador retrievers are one of the best family friendly dogs to own, but it’s just facts! I had a yellow Labrador, and my husband had a black Labrador growing up. They were both loyal, friendly, and lovable dogs.
Personality – Friendly and outgoing
Energy Level – Very Active
Shedding – A LOT
Trainability – Easily trained
Life Expectancy – 10 to 12 years
Barking Level – Medium / high amount
Size – Medium to large
For more information about Labradors, check out https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/labrador-retriever/
2. Bull Dog
These adorable, wrinkly pups are perfect friends for children. They are very adaptable, easy going, and entertaining. Bull dogs will get along with just about anyone, and they could be a wonderful addition to your family.
Personality – Calm, friendly
Energy Level – Not active, occasional walks
Shedding – Seasonal
Trainability – Responsive
Life Expectancy – 8 to 10 years
Barking Level – Quiet
Size – Small to medium
For more information about bull dogs, check out https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/bulldog/
3. Golden Retriever
As an all around popular dog breed, golden retrievers are a well loved family dog. Known for their long, golden fur and happy personality, perhaps this dog will bring some golden love into your family.
Personality – Intelligent, friendly
Energy Level – Very active
Shedding – Seasonal
Trainability – Eager to learn
Life Expectancy – 10 to 12 years
Barking Level – When necessary
Size – Medium to large
For more information about golden retrievers, check out https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/golden-retriever/
4. Pug
Apparently, pugs are known by the phrase “a lot of dog in a small space”. Pugs are perfect small dogs that can live in apartments, but can also thrive in larger homes. They are easily adaptable and are people pleasers. Maybe a pug will wiggle their way into your home!
Personality – Mischievous, charming
Energy Level – Somewhat active
Shedding – Weekly
Trainability – Needs some work / agreeable
Life Expectancy – 13 to 15 years
Barking Level – When necessary
Size – Small
For more information about pugs, check out https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pug/
5. Irish Setter
I haven’t heard much about this breed, but in all my research the Irish Setter kept popping up in different articles. Known for the popular character, Clifford, these outgoing and friendly dogs are great for an active family. Maybe you can have your own Big Red Dog!
Personality – Outgoing, sweet
Energy Level – Very active
Shedding – Seasonal
Trainability – Very well
Life Expectancy – 12 to 15 years
Barking Level – When necessary
Size – Medium to large
For more information about Irish setters, check out https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/irish-setter/
6. French Bull Dog
French Bull Dogs are another small breed that is perfect for families. They are very popular among city folks and known for their easy going nature. And who can resist their scrunched up faces? Cute!
Personality – Playful, adaptable
Energy Level – Low
Shedding – Seasonal
Trainability – Responds well
Life Expectancy – 10 to 12 years
Barking Level – Quiet
Size – Small
For more information about French bull dogs, check out https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/french-bulldog/
7. Collies and Shepards
Last but not least, Collies and Shepards. My in-laws have a mini Australian Shepard, two under two, and a pre-teen. That being said, Collies and Shepards are known for their instinctual hearing skills – for sheep and children! These dogs thrive with high energy families, would they be a good fit for you?
Personality – Graceful, devoted
Energy Level – Very active
Shedding – Seasonal
Trainability – Easily trained
Live Expectancy – 12 to 14 years
Barking Level – High
Size – Medium
For more information about collies and Shepards, check out https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/best-family-dogs/
8. Take a chance and adopt a dog
I always add a personal picture at the end of my posts, because I write about things that I believe in and see happen on the daily! I have a “Mixed Terrier” that me and my husband adopted a few years before my baby, and he is the sweetest to our little O! Tentative at first, but has accepted O into our pack full heartedly (snacks from the high chair help as well).
I will always suggest adopting before seeking out a breeder, and I understand that specific breeds may not be available, but you should contact your local shelter and see what breeds they have. You never know what new family member is waiting for you just a short drive away!
Did that help you decide?
Hopefully, this narrowed down the search, and you enjoy the new addition to your family!
Have any questions? Comment below!