Family Friendly Breeds

Looking for the best dog breeds for families?

Pet Insurance Australia takes a look into some of the popular breeds that make an excellent choice for a harmonious family life.

There are a lot of different aspects when you look at the compatibility of dog breeds for life in a busy family home. Some breeds are ideally suited to quiet homes, while others will thrive in a busy, loud, bustling environment. Understanding your chosen breed’s history is the key to success with any human/dog relationship.

It’s important to ignore the aesthetic appeal of the breed and do the research to ensure their history matches that of your family and home. Energetic, historically working dogs will not do well in homes that are not active. As well as lap dogs expecting to become the family jogging partner. It’s all about matching lifestyles to breeds.

Size can also play a part in suitability for family life. Some large dogs can get into trouble by accidentally knocking over a small toddler, while small dogs can become easily injured by a young child.

It’s important to understand that many dog breeds can become wonderful family companions, however socialisation from young age and training plays a very big role in growing any young pup into a well-rounded and happy family dog.

Training & Socialisation

When it comes to all breeds of dogs, training and socialization are paramount, particularly when they involve young children. A very young child can be a maze of human emotions and very confusing body language for a dog. It can be very perplexing and downright scary for a canine companion who has never seen this before.

Dogs that are afraid of children or have had no exposure to little humans can show symptoms of fear or anxiety and even aggression.

Even if you do not have children, it’s important to socialize your puppy, as young and consistent as possible, around little people. Like with all breeds, PIA advises training your dog on how to interact correctly with children and teaching your children how to play safely with a dog.

Most dogs can be happily socialised around young children, however like all dog/children interactions, active supervision is paramount to keep everyone safe.

Training is also vital with all puppies and dogs. Many dogs that appear on this list are not only great family pets, but they are also very easy to train, making them perfectly suited to all households.

POPULAR FAMILY DOG BREEDS:

Labrador – the loveable Labrador makes a wonderful family friend. They are easy to train, super friendly, and suitable for an energetic and busy home.

Golden Retriever –As one of the most popular family dogs around, the Golden Retriever has been enlightening the lives of pet owners for generations. These soft, loveable dogs are easy to train and irresistible to love.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel- The king of companions, this stunning breed is well-known for its love and affection for those who adore it. The Cavalier King Charles has an impressive history and is well known for their sweet nature.

Beagle – The Beagle is well-known for being a bundle of fun and laughter. This stunning wee breed is not only super-cute but also extremely loving and will quickly make friends with everybody they encounter. However, be warned, with such a powerful nose, their desire to give chase to a scent can cause headaches for some owners.

Boxer – The Boxer is a very popular medium-sized dog. Their loyal and loving nature makes them a great family pet for all types of households. They simply adore playing and thrive in busy environments. Originating from Germany, the Boxer belongs to the Working Dog group.

Poodle – Whether it’s a Standard, Miniature, or Toy variety of this popular breed, you can be sure the elegance and loving nature will be the same. As one of the most regal dogs around, the Poodle’s vast history and stunning looks have made them a favorite and adored breed in many homes.

Hungarian Viszla –This sweet and loving breed makes a wonderful family companion. He’s regal, quick to learn, and eager to please nature, making the Vizsla a world-renowned favorite dog breed. An athletic dog that makes the perfect jogging companion for any energetic home.

Border Collie – Renowned for their intelligence and agility, Border Collies are exceptional family pets for active households. They thrive on mental and physical stimulation, making them ideal for families who enjoy outdoor adventures and training challenges. Their loyal and affectionate nature ensures a deep bond with family members.

Shetland Sheepdog – Often referred to as “Shelties,” these dogs are known for their gentle disposition and intelligence. They are excellent with children and make vigilant watchdogs. Shelties are highly trainable and enjoy participating in family activities, showcasing their agility and obedience.

Bichon Frise – With their fluffy white coats and cheerful dispositions, Bichon Frises are a hit with families looking for a smaller, hypoallergenic dog breed. They are known for being playful, affectionate, and great with kids of all ages. Their friendly nature extends to other pets and strangers, making them wonderful social companions.

Bernese Mountain Dog – These gentle giants are known for their calm and patient temperament, making them fantastic pets for families with children. Bernese Mountain Dogs are loyal, affectionate, and protective, thriving in a home where they can be part of daily activities. Despite their large size, they are remarkably gentle with children and other animals.

Australian Shepherd – The Australian Shepherd is a highly energetic and versatile breed, ideal for active families. They are intelligent, loyal, and have a natural protective instinct. Australian Shepherds excel in obedience, making them easy to train, and they love being involved in all family outings and activities.

Cocker Spaniel – Cocker Spaniels are known for their gentle and loving nature, making them a superb choice for families. They are adaptable to various living situations and get along well with children and other pets. Their manageable size and affectionate demeanor make them cuddly companions who enjoy being part of the family.

Brittany Spaniel – This energetic and playful breed is perfect for families who lead an active lifestyle. Brittany Spaniels are friendly, easy to train, and have a keen sense of adventure. They are great with children and other pets, making them an ideal addition to any family looking for a lively and loving dog.

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