When it comes to getting a dog, there are so many different factors that go into choosing the right one. Temperament, level of training required, shedding capabilities, size of your house, etc. The list could go on and on and we could really go all day here. Something that some people might be considering is what dog breeds are the most family-friendly!
Again, this list could go on for a while, but instead, let’s look at the top 13!
What are THE most family-friendly dog breeds? Read more to find out!
In no particular order, here are the Top 13 Most Family-Friendly Dog Breeds to consider, starting with the smaller little guys!
1. Cavachon
Average Life Span: 10 – 15 years
Average Weight/Size: 15 – 18 lbs.
I just had to start with Cavachons here. I had a Cavachon named Jack, and let me tell you, he was the best dog ever. He was so sweet with such a mild temperament and would protect us at no cost. He gave me the best 14 years of my whole entire life. Now, in general, Cavachons are pretty healthy. They’re good for families because they are willing to sit in anyone’s lap whenever they so please to do, and generally they’re also tolerant of noise and commotion, which is perfect for kids!
2. Beagle
Average Life Span: 10 – 15 years
Average Weight/Size: 20 – 25 lbs.
Do They Shed?: Moderately (can improve with regular brushing habits)
Beagles are happiest in the company of others, making them just the absolutely perfect family dog! Whether it’s curing up next to you on the couch, endless play sessions, or even long walks with their human, a Beagle will be with you through every step of the way in both of your lives. While they will make awesome family dogs, there is just one thing to keep in mind: they are sometimes difficult to train, so make sure to stay on top of that or ask for help from a pro trainer!
3. Miniature Poodle
Average Life Span: 10 – 18 years
Average Weight/Size: 10 – 15 lbs.
Do They Shed?: No to Minimally
Miniature Poodles are oh so fluffy and cute, which alone, is a super adorable reason to add this four-legged buddy into your family’s lives. They are super intelligent, loving & sensitive, and can have super adorably spunky personalities (as all dogs can, really, on their own). In addition, Mini Poodles would make a great family dog because they have such great temperaments. They’re actually one of the most popular dog breeds in the world (should be Cavachons, but I’m biased)!
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Average Life Span: 12 – 15 years
Average Weight/Size: 13 – 18 lbs.
Do They Shed?: Yes (but Manageable)
A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of the most easiest to please pups out there and they sure will let you know it by wagging their tail. Since my Jack was half of this, I always said that it looked like he was going to wag his tail right off of his little wiggle-tush (yes, it was that cute). In addition, a CKC Spaniel would make a phenomenal family-friendly dog because they are super affectionate and could even make a great dog for a senior and/or a therapy dog as well!
5. Bichon Frise
Average Life Span: 14 – 15 years
Average Weight/Size: 10 – 18 lbs.
Do They Shed?: Nope
Bichons have an absolutely endless amount of love for their people and will never have a shortage or hard time showing it. They are highly trainable and able to adapt to their situations and environments easier than most, if not all, other pup breeds on this list, in fact. In addition, they tend to have very humorous personalities, which is so true because my furry buddy was half Bichon and boy was he goofy (and I freaking loved every moment of it)! What’s not to love?!
In no particular order, here are the Top 13 Most Family-Friendly Dog Breeds to consider, if you’re looking for a medium-sized furry friend!
6. Vizsla
Average Life Span: 12 – 14 years
Average Weight/Size: 44 – 60 lbs.
Do They Shed?: Minimal (and due to it’s super short length, it’s not super visable on furniture)
Personally, I’ve never even heard of this particular dog breed before, but apparently they can make a great choice if you’re looking for a more family-friendly pup indeed! Vizslas are super loyal companions who absolutely love to run, so be sure to add a nice brisk ‘out’ onto your daily schedules should you choose to adopt a Vizsla. Also, a Vizsla have endless energy (great for younger kids) and are fiercely affectionate; no shortage of sloppy puppy kisses – just gotta love it!
7. Collie
Average Life Span: 12 – 14 years
Average Weight/Size: 50 – 75 lbs.
Do They Shed?: Yes (be prepared for at least twice monthly grooming sessions/appointments)
Collies are highly intelligent making them super easy to train – perfect for a family that is always busy with different activities, looking to train their dog relatively quickly and easily! In addition, a Collie will make a great family-friendly dog because friendly, loving, easy going and super alert, meaning that they’d make an excellent watch dog as well. Another reason to get a Collie as your family dog is that they are highly adaptable and can go from playing to lounging within seconds!
8. Labradoodle
Average Life Span: 12 – 14 years
Average Weight/Size: 15 – 25 lbs. (Mini) 28 – 44 lbs. (Medium) 50 – 90 lbs. (Standard)
Do They Shed?: Minimally (depending on how strong the Poodle genes are)
I just couldn’t talk about the medium-sized family dogs without discussing Labradoodles for a hot second, am I right? They aren’t just a cross between a lab and a standard sized Poodle; they can actually be from any size of a Poodle, whether a giant or a mini! A Labradoodle will make a great family dog because they are active and can keep up with busy and active families and kids. They make a great service, therapy, or emotional support dog, should you be looking for one as well!
9. Bulldog
Average Life Span: 8 – 10 years
Average Weight/Size: 40 – 50 lbs.
Do They Shed?: Minimal to Average & Manageable
Bulldogs are very gentle dogs, despite their solid muscle-filled bodies, ready to knock over anyone who messes with their owner(s). In addition, a Bulldog would make a great family dog because they tend to be super big softies, despite their angry faces. They love to play with children, and be gentle, as well as love their owners hard. One thing to beware of is that Bulldogs are apt to heat stroke, so a cooler environment is best; be sure to keep a close eye on them during the Summer!
Finally, in no particular order, here are the Top 13 Most Family-Friendly Dog Breeds to consider, if bigger dogs are more your jam and speed!
10. Golden Retriever
Average Life Span: 10 – 12 years
Average Weight/Size: 55 – 75 lbs.
Do They Shed?: Yes, Heavily
First of all, their patience and trustworthiness is second to none. They are probably one of the most loyal dog breeds out there in this whole entire planet and world nonetheless. Second of all, a Golden is truly a man’s best (and super outgoing) friend! Also, Golden Retrievers are great service dogs and have and endless amount of love to give, no matter who you are! They have tons of different energy and have never met a pond or mud puddle that they didn’t love – enjoy this breed!
11. Labrador Retriever
Average Life Span: 11 – 13 years
Average Weight/Size: 55 – 80 lbs.
Do They Shed?: Yes
Much like the Golden Retriever from just up above, a Labrador Retriever has trust levels that have yet to match another dog breed on this list alone. They also just so happen to be America’s most favorite dog breed, and rightfully so. They make great family dogs just because of their super calm and loving demeanors alone. In addition, Labs love just about any and all bodies of water and will do great with families of all different ages. Basically, a Lab is full of energy and tons of love!
11. Irish Setter
Average Life Span: 12 – 15 years
Average Weight/Size: 60 – 70 lbs.
Do They Shed?: Yes (but not excessive compared to some other dogs on this list)
Irish Setters are super pretty dogs and if you get one of just the right color, they may sometimes remind you of a Golden Retriever from their golden coats. They have super high amounts of energy, so a good play session chasing the kids in the yard per day is sure to satisfy such a ‘requirement’. Also, an Irish Setter would make an excellent choice as a family dog because they are super patient and have an undying devotion to kids (way more than some other puppies).
13. Boxer
Average Life Span: 10 – 12 years
Average Weight/Size: 50 – 80 lbs.
Do They Shed?: Very Minimal to Moderately
With our final dog breed on this list over here, a Boxer can make an absolutely excellent family dog because of the following reasons: they love to be trained to be better at socializing, they are super active and alert, they need lots of playtime making them your kids’ brand new play time and toy time best friend that’s for dang sure, and finally (among so many other reasons), Boxers are well-tempered, calm, and have this sort of stoicism to them, but never losing their puppy playfulness.
What do you make of this list? Do you or anyone else that you may know have one of these breeds right now and as we speak? Let’s talk about all of that and so much more down in the comments below and as always…Woof, Woof! Paws up, y’all!