Every dog is different and there is no blanket statement that we can make about which breeds are the best family dogs, however, we can explore a few different breeds that generally make incredible family pets. With so many options, it can be challenging to narrow down your choice to just 1 when looking for a new pup.
If your family is far more active than the average family, there are great options for you. If you and your family are more relaxed and less active, there are certain breeds that can match your lifestyle. It is very important, however, to make sure you are being honest with yourself and selecting a breed that truly does match your family’s lifestyle.
1) Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
Many families are seeking a hypoallergenic dog to add to the family to avoid issues with allergies. The Wheaten Terrier is a much less popular breed than a typical doodle with extremely similar qualities. They are hypoallergenic, have excellent soft coats, are extremely intelligent and have great natural temperaments.
The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium sized dog with a big personality. They tend to be very affectionate and will quickly bond to everyone in the family. While they can have lots of energy, they are eager to please and very trainable. If you are the new owner of a Wheaten and need some help with training, just reach out here!
2) German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer, often referred to as the GSP, is not for the faint of heart! These dogs are wildly active and have endless amounts of energy. These dogs have high prey drive and love to hunt, but they can be excellent family dogs for the right family! For those who are extremely active, like to hike or hunt, the GSP is an excellent addition to the family.
GSPs require low maintenance and grooming due to their short coat. While they are a medium-size dog, they may eat more than other medium sized dogs due to their high activity levels. The GSP is a very friendly dog but certainly have specific needs!
3) Great Dane
Great Danes are known for being giant babies. Thinking back to Scooby-Doo times, it’s no surprise they hit the nail on the head. Great Danes are typically big lap dogs that love to cuddle and are extremely friendly. They are typically on the lazier side, enjoying their down time to just relax. While all dogs have physical exercise needs, you may find you don’t have to spend hours at the park playing fetch to tire out your Great Dane.
While Great Danes are typically seen as giant goofballs, they are very trainable and very intelligent. These sensitive dogs are eager to please and will love to work for you, especially if there is a treat involved! Be ready to spend a lot on food, however, as these giants need to eat a lot!
4) Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a small little pup with a big personality! Due to their little size, they make for an excellent family dog and will get along well with everybody in the family. They are very happy-go-lucky with lots of intelligence.
These dogs are eager to please and everybody in the family will be able to train your family pet to be a well-mannered part of the family.
5) Newfoundland
Newfoundlands make for incredibly family dogs due to their incredibly gentle nature and loving personality. They are excellent with kids and are very tolerant/patient dogs. While they can get random bursts of energy, these dogs are relatively lazy couch potatoes and love to lounge on a cool floor.
Newfies do require a good bit of grooming and staying on top of daily brushing will dramatically reduce the risk of grooming issues. It may help to always have a rag handy as well, as these dogs are known to drool!
Final Thoughts
There are so many different breeds that can fit your needs as a family. Whichever breed you are interested, make sure to do enough research on temperament, grooming needs, exercise requirements, and much more. Some breeds will make incredible family pets compared to others, so make sure you do enough research! If you have any questions, just reach out to us here at Delaware K9 Academy and we’d be happy to help!
