If you are looking for a dog to join your family, not just any dog will do. Some dog breeds were designed specifically to work while others were bred as companions. There are a few things that you should consider when choosing a new family member, such as its size and temperament. You should also consider if you want a purebred or a mixed breed. Here are some of the most popular big and small companion dogs for families.
German Shepherd
These are one of the most popular dogs around the world and a common police dog. German Shepherd puppies are very intelligent and easy to train. They work well with humans and form strong bonds and relationships with the people that they trust. They are also very loyal and protective dogs which makes them a great choice for families with younger children. German Shepherds are energetic and love to play and exercise.
Labrador Retriever
These dogs are popular because of their sweet and friendly nature. They are very gentle and calm and have been used extensively as therapy dogs for people who need comfort and support. These excellent family pets love to play outdoors and enjoy going for walks and swims. Labrador Retrievers typically get along well with other animals and dogs, making them a great addition to a household that has young children and other pets.
Border Collie
These dogs are herding dogs who enjoy being trained. They love completing tasks and receiving praise from their humans. Collies have very outgoing personalities and like to be the center of attention. They are strong, loyal, and affectionate. They have a lot of energy and need a good amount of exercise and stimulation. Hence, they are perfect for families with older children who can provide the necessary amount of play and exercise.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These small dogs are cute, gentle, and calm. They are very affectionate and loving towards their owners and make excellent companion animals. Their small size makes them suitable for apartments and households with small children. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are extremely friendly and generally get along well with other animals. They do best in a loving family environment and love to snuggle and spend time with their owners.
Beagle
The Beagle is an energetic dog with a playful personality and a keen sense of smell. Originally bred as hunting dogs, Beagles are clever and easy to train. They are eager to please and have enthusiastic, playful personalities which makes them great pets for children. Being small dogs, Beagles are great for smaller homes. However, they have a lot of energy, so they are better suited for active families that tend to spend more time outdoors.
Maltese
The small Maltese is a friendly and lively companion. They are mild-mannered and affectionate. Being cuddled is one of their favorite activities. Maltese are well adapted to city living and do very well in apartments. They are happy to chill out at home for most of the day if provided with a comfortable corner and some toys. However, they are active and playful and do need to have lots of attention from their owners and some exercise every day.
Tips for Choosing a Family Dog
How much space do you have? A dog’s needs can vary depending on its species and size. Typically, larger dogs like Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds do best on big properties. On the other hand, if you have a small apartment and no outdoor space, go for a smaller breed such as the Maltese.
What is your lifestyle like? Do you like outdoor activities such as hiking or running? If so, you can fulfill the needs of a high-energy breed such as the Beagle or Border Collie. If you prefer to spend your time in front of the television, then a quiet like that prefers cuddles on the couch to exercise would be a better fit.
How much time you are willing to dedicate to training? It is essential to train your dog if you want them to be well-mannered and socialized with people of all ages and other animals. Some dogs like the German Shepherd need to be trained from a young age. Unless you can dedicate the time to training them, big strong dogs are not a good choice.
How old are your kids? It is unlikely that any dog breed can behave perfectly around kids, but certain breeds tend to be more tolerant than others. If your children are too young to be taught how to interact properly with dogs, choose a calmer breed that is more likely not to react when your kids behave badly.
Are you a first-time dog owner? When choosing a dog for your family, it is important to consider how you are going to deal with the responsibilities that come with pet ownership. Choose a breed that is easy to care for and make sure that everyone in the family is on board with the idea of having a dog.
Finding a dog that fits in with your family takes some time. Be sure to do your research and make an informed decision before visiting a shelter or breeder. Choosing the right type of dog will ensure that it will be as happy as you are during your long life together.