Top Family Dog Breeds!

I've been there! We don't need nor do you want a dog! They are just one more thing if you, and if you don't, have kids. You will have to clean up poop, replace furniture and try to keep your home from smelling like an animal if you get a dog. But here's the thing, you will undoubtedly get one. Your kids will wear you down by consistently asking you and your spouse for a dog. The kids will make every conceivable concession to get a dog and will promise and vow that they will diligently take care of the animal. You know these are all lies, and yet, you will get a dog anyway. Because you will be getting one, here are some top family dog breeds that will help with your decision-making.

Labrador Retriever

Labs are the most popular dog in the US for good reason. Labs are friendly, smart, and patient. If you are an outdoorsy family, the Lab is perfect because of its versatility in hunting, showing, tracking, companion running, and obedience. Labs are very active and the saying is they are "puppies for years". Labs are medium to large dogs weighing in at 65-80 lbs. (males) and 50-70 lbs. (Females) and measuring in at around 21-24 inches. Labs require regular grooming because they shed regularly. Labs are great with kids and have a high life expectancy between 8-11 years.

Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are a great family dog. Originally developed for hunting and waterfowl, the breed has become recognized for its ability in competitions and its agreeableness for outdoor family dynamics. The Golden Retriever is a medium to a large dog weighing in at approx. 55-75 lbs. and measuring at 21-24 inches and require moderate grooming. Golden Retrievers have a life expectancy of 10-12 years and are good with children.

English Bulldog

English Bulldogs are unique in their appearance and demeanor. They make the perfect companion dog for children and adults. Originally bred to work with bulls, as the name suggests, their short stocky frame allowed for the Bulldog to get into close quarters with the bull. Today, the breed's only aggression may be to nudge you for more pillow space. Bulldogs are the "pooch potato" of all the breeds. They are not very active and will need encouragement with regular walks. Bulldogs are medium-sized dogs weighing in at 40-60 lbs. and measuring at 14-16 inches. Bulldogs are perfect for a family who is looking for a quiet companion dog.

Collie

While most of us think of Lassie when we think of Collie's, they have earned iconic reputations with their loyal and affectionate demeanor. Collies are best suited for an active lifestyle due to their herding history and will require daily exercise. Collie's are great with kids and measure in at around 22-26 inches and weighing approx. 50-75 lbs. They do like to be vocal but have a high degree of trainability.

Newfoundland

The Newfoundland "Newf" is legendary for its history of rescue work in Newfoundland due to its double coat, webbed paws, and swimming abilities. The striking first impression of the Newf is their size, strength, and loyalty. Newf's are a large breed with a muscular build weighing in between 100-150 lbs. and measuring in at 26-28 inches. They were originally bred as working dogs so the Newf has a high level of intelligence and is willing to work alongside its master. Proper training at a young age is key to the dog's development. Newfoundland's are good with children due to their calm demeanor and will require weekly grooming. They live between 9-10 years.

No matter what dog you get, your interaction with the dog and the family will be key to successful memory building for the entire family, no matter how much poop you have to scoop!

What breeds do you like best?