20 Best Dogs For Families Of Different Types

Finding the best home dog is just about getting a pet, but it’s about welcoming a new family member into your household. The best family dog in the world for you will transform your house into a home.

In this blog, we’ve created a list of the best dog breeds for your home that blend seamlessly into your family life. Discover the joy of having a pet without breaking the bank, as we explore affordable (low-rate dogs) options that are as loving and loyal as they come.

Find dog breeds specific to your needs as a nuclear family, or whether you have children or are working all day. We’ve also included a list of hypoallergenic dogs that cater to the needs of the family members who are allergic to dogs.

In the end, you’ll learn if you should get an adult dog or a puppy and other essentials like what should you name your dog or what kind of training you should provide. Let’s start learning about the best dogs for your home.

What you'll learn

How to select the best type of dog?

There are 6 main factors to count on when selecting a dog for your family:

Size: Choose a dog that fits your space and family members’ abilities.
Breed: Match the dog’s energy with your lifestyle – active or calm.
Schedule: Consider your family’s time for feeding, exercise, and care.
Activity Level: Pick a dog that matches your family’s activity level.
Age: Adults or older dogs can be easier for busy families or those with kids.
History: Learn about the dog’s past to provide the right environment and support.

Tip: If you’re getting a dog from a breeder, ensure the breeder is reputable and ethical, prioritizing the health and well-being of their dogs.

Top 20 Family Dogs

In the following lists find the best dog breeds for your home that suit your family’s lifestyle. Read about options from child-friendly dog breeds, dogs with a friendly temperament, dogs for busy families, and hypoallergenic dogs.

5 Child-Friendly Dog Breeds

If you’re a family with kids, you need to be extra careful while considering which dog breed to buy or adopt. Ensure that you go with one of the best kid-friendly dog breeds.

Regardless if you have a toddler or small children, consider the following dog options playing dog breeds, calm family dogs, or small dog breeds. We guarantee that the following breeds are of good temperament perfect for children.

Labrador Retriever
Beagle
Pug
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Bichon Frise

1. Labrador Retriever

Labradors are renowned as one of the best dogs for families with kids. Their playful and gentle nature makes them the ultimate kids’ dog. These loving companions are not only excellent playmates but also incredibly patient, especially with toddlers.

Labradors are known for their friendly temperament, perfect for families seeking a kid-friendly dog breed. Whether indoors or outdoors, they are always up for a game, making them ideal for families with active children.

Height: 21.5-24.5 inches (55-62 cm)
Weight: 55-80 pounds (25-36 kg)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Health: Generally a healthy breed, but prone to certain health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and obesity if not properly exercised and fed.
Temperament: Outgoing, even-tempered, gentle, and friendly.
Activity Level: Highly active and energetic.
Training: Easily trainable with positive reinforcement and socialization.
Space Requirement: Labradors do well in various living situations, but they thrive best in homes with access to a yard where they can play and run.
Coat: Short, dense, and water-resistant coat.
Grooming: Low grooming needs. Regular brushing to remove loose hair and occasional baths are usually sufficient.
Shedding: Labradors shed moderately throughout the year, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes.

2. Beagle

Beagles are not just cute; they are fantastic family dogs, especially for those with small children. Their friendly and affectionate nature makes them excellent companions for kids.

Beagles are known for their playful antics, making them one of the best dog breeds for toddlers. Their small to medium size and good temperament make them suitable for indoor activities, ensuring that they’re always around when the kids need a furry friend to play with.

Height: 13-15 inches (33-38 cm)
Weight: 20-30 pounds (9-13.6 kg)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Health: Generally healthy, but prone to certain conditions like hip dysplasia, cherry eye, and obesity if not properly managed.
Temperament: Friendly, curious, and merry. Beagles are known for their gentle and friendly disposition.
Activity Level: Moderately active, and enjoys outdoor activities and playtime.
Training: Beagles can be a bit stubborn, but with patience and positive reinforcement, they can be trained effectively.
Space Requirement: Beagles can adapt to apartment living but require regular exercise and outdoor walks.
Coat: Short, dense, and weather-resistant coat.
Grooming: Low grooming needs. Regular brushing helps in maintaining their coat.
Shedding: Beagles shed moderately throughout the year.

3. Pug

Pugs, with their charming and loving personalities, are the epitome of kid-friendly dog breeds. They are not only adorable but also incredibly patient and gentle, making them the perfect small dog breed for families with young children.

Pugs thrive on indoor activities and are content to cuddle with the kids during quiet times. Their calm and friendly nature makes them one of the calmest family dogs. They provide a warm and loving environment for every family member.

Height: 10-13 inches (25-33 cm)
Weight: 14-18 pounds (6.4-8.2 kg)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Health: Prone to respiratory issues due to their flat faces, as well as obesity and certain eye conditions.
Temperament: Affectionate, charming, and mischievous. Pugs are known for their playful and loving nature.
Activity Level: Moderate activity level; enjoy indoor play and short walks.
Training: Pugs are intelligent but can be a bit stubborn. Positive reinforcement and patience work best in training them.
Space Requirement: Pugs do well in apartments and homes with limited space.
Coat: Short, smooth coat.
Grooming: Low grooming needs. Regular brushing and occasional baths are sufficient.
Shedding: Pugs shed moderately throughout the year.

Fact: Pugs are the ultimate dog breed for men. They don’t require much grooming and serve as constant buddies.

4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a delightful small dog breed incredibly affectionate and well-suited for families with children. Their friendly and loving temperament makes them one of the best dog breeds for small children.

Cavaliers are known for their adaptability, making them excellent indoor dogs. They are gentle, patient, and always eager to please, making them ideal companions for kids. Their calm demeanor and playful spirit create a harmonious environment in any family setting.

Height: 12-13 inches (30-33 cm)
Weight: 13-18 pounds (5.9-8.2 kg)
Life Expectancy: 9-14 years
Health: Prone to heart conditions, eye issues, and certain neurological problems.
Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, and friendly. Cavaliers are known for their loving and friendly nature.
Activity Level: Moderately active, enjoy walks and playtime.
Training: Cavaliers are intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.
Space Requirement: Cavaliers adapt well to apartment living but require daily walks and play sessions.
Coat: Long, silky, and straight coat with feathering on ears, chest, legs, and tail.
Grooming: Moderate grooming needs. Regular brushing to prevent mats and occasional baths are necessary.
Shedding: Cavaliers shed moderately, especially in the spring and fall.

5. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a kid-friendly dog breed, adored for its playful and affectionate nature. These dogs are patient, and gentle, and make fantastic companions for children.

With their friendly attitude and lively spirit, Bichon Frises bring joy and safety to families, making them an ideal choice for households with kids.

Height: 9.5-11.5 inches (24-29 cm)
Weight: 10-16 pounds (4.5-7.3 kg)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Health: Generally healthy, but prone to certain conditions like allergies, dental issues, and joint problems.
Temperament: Playful, cheerful, and affectionate. Bichon Frises are known for their friendly and lively personality.
Activity Level: Moderately active, and enjoys indoor play and short walks.
Training: Bichon Frises is intelligent and responds well to positive reinforcement training methods.
Space Requirement: Bichon Frises adapt well to apartment living but require regular exercise and playtime.
Coat: Curly, dense, and hypoallergenic coat.
Grooming: High grooming needs. Regular brushing, professional grooming, and regular baths are necessary to maintain their coat.
Shedding: Bichon Frises shed very little, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.

5 Friendly Dog Breeds

When you say friendly dog breed, Golden Retrievers quickly pop into your mind. Let’s explore four more furry friends who are just as affectionate and sociable.

Find the five nicest and most family-friendly dogs that are easy to train and good companions.

Golden Retriever
Shih Tzu
Boston Terrier
Irish Setter
Border Collie

6. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are renowned for their friendly and gentle temperament, making them one of the nicest dog breeds for families. They are not only incredibly friendly with humans but also get along well with other pets, making them a perfect companion for households.

Their loving nature and eagerness to please make them exceptionally easy dogs to train. Goldens are not just safe dog breeds, they are also known for their loyalty.

Although a Goldie will welcome any stranger into your home, you can still trust it to have your back in times of need.

Height: 21.5-24 inches (55-61 cm)
Weight: 55-75 pounds (25-34 kg)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Health: Generally healthy, prone to certain conditions like hip dysplasia, heart issues, and certain cancers.
Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, and devoted. Golden Retrievers are known for their gentle and friendly nature, making them excellent family pets and therapy dogs.
Activity Level: High activity level, enjoys outdoor activities, swimming, and retrieving games.
Training: Highly intelligent and easy to train, responds well to positive reinforcement techniques.
Space Requirement: Requires space to move around, preferably a house with a yard. Can adapt to apartment living with regular exercise.
Coat: Dense, water-repellent double coat with a thick undercoat. Regular brushing is required to maintain their coat.
Grooming: Moderate grooming needs. Regular brushing, occasional baths, and grooming to prevent matting.
Shedding: Golden Retrievers shed moderately throughout the year and more heavily during shedding seasons.

7. Shih Tzu

Another family-friendly dog known for their charming personality is Shih Tzu. They are incredibly friendly with humans, making them wonderful companions for families. Their small size and gentle demeanor make them safe dog breeds, especially around children.

Shih Tzus are not only easy to train but also adapt well to various living situations, making them an excellent choice for families seeking an easygoing and affectionate canine friend.

Height: 9-10.5 inches (23-27 cm)
Weight: 9-16 pounds (4-7.3 kg)
Life Expectancy: 10-16 years
Health: Generally healthy, prone to issues like respiratory problems, dental issues, and eye conditions due to their flat face.
Temperament: Affectionate, outgoing, and friendly. Shih Tzus are known for their lively and friendly personality.
Activity Level: Low to moderate activity level, enjoys indoor play and short walks.
Training: Intelligent but can be stubborn. Requires patience and positive reinforcement training methods.
Space Requirement: Suitable for apartment living. Requires daily walks and playtime.
Coat: Long, dense, and straight coat. Regular grooming and occasional professional grooming are necessary to maintain their coat.
Grooming: High grooming needs. Daily brushing and regular baths are essential to prevent matting and tangles.
Shedding: Minimal shedding, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.

8. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are friendly, playful, and easy-to-train dogs, making them perfect family-friendly pets. Their friendly nature extends not only to humans but also to other pets, making them great companions for families with multiple animals.

Boston Terriers are very adaptable and sociable. They make wonderful companions for families seeking a loving and easy dog to integrate into their homes. Plus, they have a short coat so grooming is minimal making their maintenance quite easy.

Height: 9-15 inches (23-38 cm)
Weight: 12-25 pounds (5.4-11.3 kg)
Life Expectancy: 11-13 years
Health: Generally healthy, prone to certain conditions like respiratory issues, allergies, and eye problems due to their prominent eyes.
Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, and affectionate. Boston Terriers are known for their gentle and friendly demeanor.
Activity Level: Moderate activity level, enjoys indoor play and short walks.
Training: Intelligent and eager to please. Responds well to positive reinforcement training methods.
Space Requirement: Suitable for apartment living. Regular exercise and playtime are necessary.
Coat: Short, smooth coat. Low grooming needs, occasional brushing to remove loose hair.
Grooming: Minimal grooming needs. Regular baths and basic grooming suffice to keep them clean.
Shedding: Minimal shedding.

9. Irish Setter

The Irish Setter is an ideal family dog due to its friendly and affectionate nature. With its vibrant red coat and playful temperament, it’s a perfect companion for kids. These dogs are not only beautiful but also intelligent and easy to train.

They love being part of family activities and are loyal and loving. With an Irish Setter, your family gains a warm, cheerful, and energetic member who brings joy to everyone.

Height: 25-27 inches (64-69 cm)
Weight: 60-70 pounds (27-32 kg)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Health: Generally healthy, prone to conditions like hip dysplasia, bloat, and certain heart issues.
Temperament: Energetic, outgoing, and friendly. Irish Setters are known for their playful and affectionate nature.
Activity Level: High activity level, requires regular exercise, outdoor activities, and mental stimulation.
Training: Intelligent but can be stubborn. Requires consistent and positive reinforcement training methods.
Space Requirement: Ideally suited for homes with a yard. Requires ample space to run and play.
Coat: Medium to long, silky coat. Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming are necessary.
Grooming: Moderate grooming needs. Regular brushing and baths to keep their coat clean and free of mats.
Shedding: Moderate shedding.

10. Border Collie

Border Collies are highly intelligent and family-friendly dogs, known for their loyalty and companionship. They are not only friendly with humans but also excel in forming strong bonds with their families.

Border Collies are easy to train, making them highly adaptable to various activities and commands. Their friendly demeanor and enthusiasm for human interaction make them perfect family companions.

Families seeking an intelligent, affectionate, and easy-to-train dog will find a reliable and loving friend in the Border Collie.

Height: 18-22 inches (46-56 cm)
Weight: 30-55 pounds (14-25 kg)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Health: Generally healthy, prone to conditions like hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and certain eye conditions.
Temperament: Intelligent, energetic, and agile. Border Collies are known for their exceptional intelligence and herding instincts.
Activity Level: Very high activity level, requires regular exercise, mental stimulation, and advanced training activities.
Training: Highly intelligent and eager to learn. Responds well to positive reinforcement and advanced training methods.
Space Requirement: Ideally suited for homes with a yard. Requires ample space to run and engage in activities.
Coat: Medium-length double coat. Regular brushing is necessary to prevent mats and tangles.
Grooming: Moderate grooming needs. Regular baths and grooming to maintain their coat.
Shedding: Moderate shedding, more during seasonal changes.

5 Dogs for Working Family

For families with busy schedules, finding a dog that fits seamlessly into their lifestyle is crucial. In this section, explore five dog breeds that perfectly match the dynamics of working families.

These adaptable and easygoing companions bring joy without overwhelming the family routine, ensuring a balanced and happy household.

Basset Hound
Grey Hound
French Bulldog
Welsh Corgi
Dachshund

11. Basset Hound

Basset Hounds are laid-back and infamous for being lazy dogs that adapt well to family life. They have a calm temperament, making them suitable for working families.

Although they have a keen sense of smell, they don’t require intense exercise and are content with moderate walks. Basset Hounds are loyal and get along well with children, making them a good choice for families with busy schedules.

Height: 13-15 inches (33-38 cm)
Weight: 40-65 pounds (18-29.5 kg)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Health: Generally healthy, prone to conditions like ear infections, obesity, and back issues due to their long spine.
Temperament: Gentle, friendly, and laid-back. Basset Hounds are known for their calm and affectionate nature.
Activity Level: Moderate activity level, enjoys leisurely walks and indoor relaxation.
Training: Intelligent but can be stubborn. Requires patient and consistent training methods.
Space Requirement: Adaptable to apartment living, but regular walks and playtime are essential.
Coat: Short, dense coat. Regular brushing is sufficient to maintain their coat.
Grooming: Low grooming needs. Regular ear cleaning and occasional baths are necessary.
Shedding: Moderate shedding.

12. Greyhound

Greyhounds are gentle, low-maintenance dogs that are great for working families. Despite their reputation as racing dogs, they are surprisingly lazy and enjoy lounging around the house.

Regular walks and occasional sprints are enough to meet their exercise needs. Greyhounds are affectionate and social, making them excellent companions for families who are away during the day.

Height: 27-30 inches (69-76 cm)
Weight: 60-70 pounds (27-32 kg)
Life Expectancy: 10-14 years
Health: Generally healthy, prone to conditions like bloat, heart issues, and certain cancers.
Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and independent. Greyhounds are known for their calm and sweet nature.
Activity Level: Moderate activity level, enjoys short bursts of intense exercise followed by long periods of rest.
Training: Intelligent and independent. Responds well to positive reinforcement and patient training methods.
Space Requirement: Suited for apartment living, but regular exercise in a safely enclosed area is necessary.
Coat: Short, smooth coat. Low grooming needs, occasional brushing to remove loose hair.
Grooming: Minimal grooming needs. Regular baths and basic grooming suffice to keep them clean.
Shedding: Minimal shedding.

13. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are small, sturdy, and adaptable dogs that fit well into a working family’s lifestyle. They don’t require extensive exercise and are content with short walks and indoor play.

French Bulldogs are affectionate, friendly, and excellent with children, making them a popular choice for families. Their low exercise needs and loving nature make them ideal pets for busy households.

Height: 11-12 inches (28-31 cm)
Weight: 16-28 pounds (7.3-12.7 kg)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Health: Prone to respiratory issues, hip dysplasia, and certain skin conditions due to their flat face.
Temperament: Adaptable, playful, and affectionate. French Bulldogs are known for their charming and easygoing personality.
Activity Level: Low activity level, enjoys short walks and indoor play.
Training: Intelligent but can be stubborn. Requires patient and positive reinforcement training methods.
Space Requirement: Suited for apartment living. Requires air-conditioned environments during hot weather due to their heat sensitivity.
Coat: Short, smooth coat. Low grooming needs, occasional brushing to remove loose hair.
Grooming: Minimal grooming needs. Regular baths and basic grooming suffice to keep them clean.
Shedding: Minimal shedding.

14. Welsh Corgi

Welsh Corgis, both Pembroke and Cardigan varieties, are intelligent and loyal dogs that make great companions for working families. They are adaptable and can adjust to different living situations.

Corgis are playful and enjoy outdoor activities, but they are also content with indoor playtime. Their friendliness makes them excellent family pets, and they can be trained to respect a family’s routine.

Height: 10-12 inches (25-30 cm)
Weight: 25-30 pounds (11.3-13.6 kg)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Health: Generally healthy, prone to conditions like hip dysplasia, back problems, and certain eye conditions.
Temperament: Intelligent, loyal, and affectionate. Welsh Corgis are known for their playful and loving nature.
Activity Level: Moderate activity level, enjoys walks, playtime, and mental stimulation.
Training: Highly intelligent and eager to please. Responds well to positive reinforcement training methods.
Space Requirement: Suited for apartment living with regular exercise and playtime.
Coat: Medium-length double coat. Regular brushing is necessary to prevent mats and tangles.
Grooming: Moderate grooming needs. Regular baths and grooming to maintain their coat.
Shedding: Moderate shedding, more during seasonal changes.

15. Dachshund

Dachshunds, often referred to as “sausage dogs,” are small yet spirited dogs perfect for working families. They have moderate exercise needs and enjoy short walks and interactive play.

Dachshunds are loyal, clever, and confident, making them great family pets. Although this breed is quite independent, they can form strong bonds with their families. They also can live in various types of homes including homes with working parents.

Height: Miniature: 5-6 inches (13-15 cm), Standard: 8-9 inches (20-23 cm)
Weight: Miniature: Up to 11 pounds (5 kg), Standard: 16-32 pounds (7.3-14.5 kg)
Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
Health: Prone-to-back issues, obesity, and certain skin conditions.
Temperament: Curious, lively, and independent. Dachshunds are known for their bold and confident personality.
Activity Level: Moderate activity level, enjoys walks and indoor play.
Training: Intelligent but can be stubborn. Requires patient and positive reinforcement training methods.
Space Requirement: Suited for apartment living. Requires regular exercise to prevent obesity.
Coat: Smooth, long, or wire-haired coat varieties. Grooming needs vary based on the coat type.
Grooming: Minimal to moderate grooming needs, depending on the coat type.
Shedding: Minimal shedding.

5 Hypoallergenic Dogs for Families

Allergy concerns shouldn’t hinder the joy of having a dog. In this section, discover five hypoallergenic dog breeds that are gentle on allergies.

The following dog breeds shed minimally and have coats that are less likely to trigger allergic reactions.

Poodle
Yorkshire Terrier
Maltese
Basenji
Havanese

16. Poodle

Poodles, whether in standard, miniature, or toy size, are known for their intelligence and excellent temperament, making them one of the best dogs for families with kids.

Poodles are not just kid-friendly; they are also hypoallergenic, which is a significant advantage for families with allergies. They come in various sizes, making them adaptable to different living spaces.

This breed is highly intelligent, easy to train, and affectionate family pets. They are a great choice for households with allergy concerns.

Height: Standard: Over 15 inches (38 cm), Miniature: 10-15 inches (25-38 cm), Toy: Under 10 inches (25 cm)
Weight: Standard: 45-70 pounds (20-32 kg), Miniature: 15-17 pounds (7-8 kg), Toy: 4-6 pounds (1.8-2.7 kg)
Life Expectancy: 10-18 years
Health: Generally healthy, prone to conditions like hip dysplasia, certain eye issues, and epilepsy.
Temperament: Intelligent, active, and trainable. Poodles are known for their intelligence and versatility, making them excellent in various dog sports and activities.
Activity Level: Moderate to high activity level, requires regular exercise, mental stimulation, and grooming.
Training: Highly intelligent and eager to please. Responds well to positive reinforcement training methods.
Space Requirement: Adaptable to apartment living but requires regular exercise and grooming.
Coat: Dense, curly, and hypoallergenic coat. Regular grooming and professional trims are necessary to maintain their coat.
Grooming: High grooming needs. Regular brushing, professional grooming, and regular baths are necessary.
Shedding: Very low shedding, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.

17. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, have silky, non-shedding fur, making them a suitable option for families with allergies. Their long, fine hair minimizes hair fall, reducing the chances of triggering allergies.

Yorkies are small in size, making them manageable for families living in apartments. They are affectionate, and loyal, and require regular grooming to maintain their hypoallergenic coat.

Height: 7-8 inches (18-20 cm)
Weight: 4-7 pounds (1.8-3.2 kg)
Life Expectancy: 11-15 years
Health: Generally healthy, prone to conditions like dental issues, tracheal collapse, and certain eye problems.
Temperament: Affectionate, lively, and confident. Yorkshire Terriers are known for their spirited and energetic personality.
Activity Level: Moderate activity level, enjoys short walks and indoor play.
Training: Intelligent but can be stubborn. Requires consistent and positive reinforcement training methods.
Space Requirement: Suited for apartment living. Requires daily walks and playtime.
Coat: Long, silky, and straight coat. Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming are necessary.
Grooming: High grooming needs. Regular baths and grooming to prevent matting and tangles.
Shedding: Minimal shedding.

18. Maltese

Maltese dogs have long, silky, and non-shedding coats, making them a hypoallergenic choice for families. They shed very little, reducing the spread of allergens in the home.

Maltese are small dogs with fur that don’t easily fall out, making them an ideal companion for families with allergy concerns. They are playful, and gentle, and thrive in indoor environments, making them well-suited for families.

Height: 7-9 inches (18-23 cm)
Weight: Under 7 pounds (3.2 kg)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Health: Generally healthy, prone to conditions like dental issues, respiratory problems, and certain eye conditions.
Temperament: Playful, gentle, and affectionate. Maltese are known for their sweet and charming nature.
Activity Level: Moderate activity level, enjoys indoor play and short walks.
Training: Intelligent and eager to please. Responds well to positive reinforcement training methods.
Space Requirement: Suited for apartment living. Requires daily walks and playtime.
Coat: Long, silky, and straight coat. Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming are necessary.
Grooming: High grooming needs. Regular baths and grooming to prevent matting and tangles.
Shedding: Minimal shedding.

Fact: Maltese is a great dog breed for women as well. They’re especially good for supporting older people.

19. Basenji

Basenjis have a short, fine coat that results in minimal shedding. These small dogs with fur that doesn’t shed much are excellent for families with allergies.

Basenjis are known for their intelligence and independence, making them adaptable pets. Their low-shedding coat reduces the presence of allergens, providing a comfortable environment for allergy-prone family members.

Height: 16-17 inches (41-43 cm)
Weight: 22-24 pounds (10-11 kg)
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Health: Generally healthy, prone to conditions like Fanconi syndrome, certain eye issues, and hip dysplasia.
Temperament: Intelligent, independent, and energetic. Basenjis are known for their unique yodel-like vocalization and curious nature.
Activity Level: Moderate to high activity level, enjoys outdoor activities and mental stimulation.
Training: Intelligent but independent. Requires patient and consistent training methods.
Space Requirement: Suited for homes with a yard. Requires space to run and play.
Coat: Short, fine hypoallergenic coat. Low grooming needs, occasional brushing to remove loose hair.
Grooming: Minimal grooming needs. Regular baths and basic grooming suffice to keep them clean.
Shedding: Minimal shedding.

20. Havanese

Havanese dogs have a long, wavy coat that is hypoallergenic and sheds minimally. These small dogs with fur that doesn’t shed much are perfect for families with allergies.

Havanese are friendly, sociable, and eager to please, making them wonderful family pets. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their non-shedding coat, ensuring a hypoallergenic living space for allergy-sensitive individuals.

Height: 8.5-11.5 inches (22-29 cm)
Weight: 7-13 pounds (3.2-5.9 kg)
Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
Health: Generally healthy, prone to conditions like dental issues, certain heart problems, and patellar luxation.
Temperament: Affectionate, playful, and friendly. Havanese are known for their cheerful and sociable nature.
Activity Level: Moderate activity level, enjoys indoor play and short walks.
Training: Intelligent and eager to please. Responds well to positive reinforcement training methods.
Space Requirement: Suited for apartment living. Requires daily walks and playtime.
Coat: Long, silky, and wavy, hypoallergenic coat. Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming are necessary.
Grooming: High grooming needs. Regular baths and grooming to prevent matting and tangles.
Shedding: Minimal shedding.

Should you buy or adopt a dog?

Buying a dog

Purchasing a dog from a breeder is a choice made by some families. When you buy a dog from a breeder, these are the specifications you get:

You choose the specific breed you want with particular characteristics. Ensure you’re buying from a responsible breeder by doing a background check.
You get the health and genetic history of the dog when buying from a reputable breeder minimizing the risk of hereditary diseases.
Your breeder will provide support and guidance if you’re a new dog owner with information related to care, training, nutrition, etc.

Adopting a dog

Adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue organization is a compassionate choice with several considerations:

You save the life of a homeless dog and give them a chance at a happy life.
You receive pre-adoption care like deworming/spaying/neutering. Shelter dogs are usually vaccinated and their initial medical expenses are covered by the shelter at times.
You find a dog with a temperament match with your family’s lifestyle and preferences. You get to meet the dog beforehand to ensure compatibility.
You encourage responsible pet ownership and discourage unethical breeding practices.

Adopting a dog contributes positively to the welfare of animals making you a socially responsible citizen.

Should you get a puppy for your family?

Getting a puppy for your family is a good option if your family is ready for the responsibility and joy of having a new family member. Consider your lifestyle and the level of commitment you’re willing to give to the puppy before deciding to get one.

Puppies can be a great addition to a family as they make good companions for your kids and you. They teach responsibility, boost social skills and self-esteem, and promote physical activity and emotional well-being for your kids. Puppies provide unconditional love and contribute significantly to a child’s overall development.

Are puppies the same as adult dogs?

No, puppies are not the same as adult dogs. Puppies are playful, and energetic, and require extensive training and socialization. They need frequent meals, potty training, and consistent supervision. Adult dogs, on the other hand, are more settled, with established behavior patterns. They usually require less intensive training and may already be house-trained.

Adult dogs also have fully developed personalities, making it easier to find one that matches your family’s lifestyle and preferences. Consider these differences when deciding which age to adopt based on your family’s needs and preferences.

What are the best dog breed names?

Some of the best dog breed names are:

Labrador Retriever
Golden Retriever
Border Collie
Basset Hound
Poodle
Bichon Frise

What are some common dog names?

Some common dog names include:

Bella
Max
Lucy
Charlie
Pixie
Rocky

What are the best breeds of dogs for first-time owners?

The best dog breeds for first-time owners are:

Labrador Retriever
Pug
Golden Retriever
Beagle
Doberman
Indian Pariah

Should I train the dog before bringing in the family?

If you’re getting an adult dog, it is recommended to provide basic training before bringing it into the family. Training helps establish basic commands, behavior boundaries, and socialization skills, making the transition smoother for both the dog and your family members. However, if you’re getting a puppy, it can receive behavioral training after getting introduced to your family as well.

Should I adopt a large dog for my family?

Yes, you can adopt a large dog for your family as in spite of their size, some large dogs are very affectionate and gentle. Dogs like Mastiffs and Doberman adjust well to all kinds of surroundings and can be a great addition to your family. In fact, Great Dane is a great large dog for couples with children.

Should I buy small dogs that are good for my family?

If your family prefers smaller dogs, consider breeds known for their friendly and gentle temperament. Small dogs like Beagles, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, or French Bulldogs can make great family pets, especially if you have limited space or younger children. Just ensure they’re well-trained and socialized for a harmonious family life.