When a family is looking to bring home a new addition, namely a four legged one, it is important to make the right choice. Choosing the best family dog for your household can be overwhelming. It seems everyone has a different opinion on dog breeds and which one they think is right for you.
The most important thing to remember is that only you know your family, your lifestyle, your interests, your schedules and these are the things that you should really keep in mind when getting a dog. Bellow are five of the AKC’s top breeds for 2008 and some information about them;
1. Labrador Retriever
- This friendly and seemingly joyful breed has been the top choice for families for years. They can be very gentle with children as well as other animals and can be easily trained.
2. Yorkshire Terrier
– The Yorkie as they are sometimes called is a small dog with a big heart. Yorkshire Terriers are very loyal and affectionate to their owners; however this behavior also makes them wary of strangers and other dogs. Yorkies, mainly due to their size are recommended for families with older, more considerate children.
3. German Shepherd
– These dogs have been at man’s side for centuries. As service dogs, this breed is unmatched for strength and intelligence but as a family dog they need an owner that is strongly committed to training and obedience to avoid any aggressive behavior.
4. Golden Retriever
– These dogs are as easy going as they come but they can have an abundance of energy in their first few years. Goldens could easily be the best family dog, behaving well with children and acting as a very loyal companion.
5. Beagle
- If your family has the space to run; this dog may be a perfect fit. Due to this breeds heritage as a hunting hound, Beagles need to be active and love to follow a trail with their nose to the ground for hours. For this reason Beagles are not well suited for city living.
If your family is looking for a dog, research some different breeds that you feel might be right and visit a few breeders to interact with the dogs in person. Just remember, with the right amount of training and commitment any dog can be a great family dog.
