Are you thinking about bringing home a pet dog? If yes, you might have several questions, like which breed would be suitable and whether it will be friendly with your kids. To make it easier, we have compiled a list of dog breeds that make good family pets. Remember that it helps to involve all the family members in this discussion. Everyone may have different preferences regarding dogs, and those must be considered.

Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are among the most popular for several reasons. They are versatile, obedient, outgoing, friendly, good with children, and mix well with others. But remember that their energy levels are high, and they love activity. So you will have to reserve time to ensure they get their share of play and exercise. You will also have to brush them frequently as they are moderate to heavy shedders. Labrador Retrievers love doing everything, including tracking, hunting, and dock diving. They are good with other dogs too, but supervision is advised. Dogs of this breed do not bark a lot and have a life expectancy of around 10 to 12 years.

Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are another family-friendly pet with an excellent demeanor. They are loving, intelligent, devoted, and very athletic. So, they too need daily exercise. You will find them mixing with children and other dogs without any worry. Golden Retrievers bark only when necessary, so they will not be a problem to the neighborhood. The breed has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years and is one of the most trainable.

Pug
The pug is another family-friendly breed. Just like humans, these adorable short-nosed dogs love eating and sleeping. Pugs are charming, loving, even-tempered, and sometimes naughty. They are less active than other dogs and prefer staying indoors, so you will not have to spend much time taking them for walks or exercise. In addition, pugs are playful and affectionate toward children and other dogs, and little supervision is required. But they need weekly grooming as they are regular shedders. They bark only when necessary and have a life expectancy of around 13 to 15 years.

Beagle
Beagles are smaller with an easy-to-care, smooth coat. They are friendly, peaceful, and curious, but above all, intelligent. So, they can serve as good watchdogs for your family. Beagles are energetic and active and need lots of exercise and playtime. They are pleasant with children and other dogs. But you will have to free up your calendar for grooming and washing at least once a week. Further, note that they bark more often as they love to be vocal. Their life expectancy is 12 to 14 years on average.

French Bulldogs
French Bulldogs are very popular among city dwellers. They are adaptable, easy-going, playful, and smart. They also respond well to training. However, French Bulldogs are not very energetic and athletic, so brisk walking is the best exercise. They require occasional grooming and are very quiet. The life expectancy ranges between 10 to 12 years.

Bulldog
Bulldogs make good companions for children and other pets. They are calm, friendly, courageous, dignified, amusing, and do not bark a lot. So rest assured that the neighborhood will not get disturbed. Bulldogs are not very active, but they require regular walks. They also respond well to training. Weekly grooming is a must. The life expectancy of this breed ranges between 8 and 10 years.

Irish Setter
Irish Setters are active and energetic and require a lot of space and exercise, making them suitable for families with an active lifestyle. They are outgoing, trainable, and friendly with children and other dogs. Irish Setters require weekly grooming, bark when necessary, and have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.

How to choose the right breed?
Take some time out to research different breeds that make suitable family dogs. While doing so, consider the space you have at home. You might have realized that some dogs are bigger and love to roam freely, needing extra room. Some may be the best companion for your kids because of their patient and gentle nature. Budgeting is also essential as a few breeds are costly and need proper maintenance.

After welcoming a pet into the family, ensure to provide it with the best and most consistent training. Also, craft a family schedule for walking, grooming, playing, and feeding, so that everyone can be involved in the pet’s care. It is advisable to consult a vet if you have questions about their nutrition, grooming, and other needs.