Beagle
These high-energy dogs make a wonderful addition to any family, but keep in mind they do require a lot of playtime and attention. Beagles are loving and curious and love to be in the company of their family. Typically weighing under 20 pounds and standing at around 13 inches, they’ve been referred to being big for their inches. They’re a great dog for families with kids who would enjoy having a playful and friendly companion.
Boxer
Boxers are another energetic breed that loves playing with his family members. Lovable and social, the Boxer takes his job as guardian and watchdog very seriously and is very protective of his family. Puppies can be quite wild an ornery, but are also quick learners and are eager to please. A larger breed, males can stand as much as 25 inches tall.
Golden Retriever
One of the classic breeds that come to mind when people think of family dogs, the Gold Retriever is loyal, lovable, and patient. A good breed for families with kids, Golden Retrievers are not aggressive and enjoy spending time with everyone in the home. Golden Retrievers usually weigh between 50-70 pounds. This breed does require a lot of playtime and exercise, especially during puppyhood. With its longer coat, this breed does require more grooming and regular brushings. The Golden Retriever will love playing fetch for hours and will reward you by being extremely obedient and loving. This breed is a solid choice for any family.
Poodle
Poodles may not be a breed that comes to mind when you think of a family dog, but they are actually an excellent choice. Poodles are extremely intelligent and surprisingly gentle. Playful and adventurous, they are very loyal and patient with their family members but tend to be shy and standoffish with strangers. Easy to train, even if a little stubborn at times, they’re great for families with kids. But don’t forget that their coats do need to be regularly groomed. Poodles come in a variety of sizes, ranging from the Toy Poodle, which stands about 10 inches tall, to the Standard Poodle, which is around 20-24 inches tall.
Boston Terriers
Playful and energetic, Bostons are a wonderful choice for a family dog. Fiercely protective of his loved ones, the Boston Terrier will diligently guard and watch over his family. Boston Terrier’s adore playing with his family and will keep the kids busy with playtime. Full of antics and goofiness, the Boston Terrier will keep you forever entertained and will capture your heart. Boston Terriers are quick learners and tend to be fairly easy to housetrain. Compact but full of personality, Boston Terriers typically weigh in around 15 pounds.
Basset Hound
This stubby-legged hound is friendly and easygoing, making it a great choice for families. Known for their good sense of smell and sturdy body, Bassets typically weigh around 40-60 lbs. but are only about 14 inches tall at the withers. Some of the most distinctive features of this breed are their long, floppy ears, short stature, short little bowed legs, and of course their droopy, sad face. While they can sometimes be a challenge to train, as they tend to be a stubborn breed, they are smart and loyal and will make an excellent addition to the family.
Collie
Gentle and eager to please are just a couple ways to describe this breed. Collies typically mind their manners and are easier to train than some other breeds, this breed is perfect for not only families, but owners who may not have much experience with dogs. They are gentle and patient, which make them the perfect fit for families with children. Since they are a rather intelligent breed, they do need constant work with obedience training to stay engaged. But do keep in mind that their long fur does require regular grooming. Collies usually weigh between 45-65 pounds and come in a variety of colors.
Labrador Retriever
Another classic family dog and one of the most beloved breeds, the Labrador Retriever makes a wonderful addition to the household. Playful, loving, and protective, this dog will want to be by your family’s side for all time. Coming in chocolate, black, or yellow, their coat takes less work to maintain than the Golden Retriever variety, a periodic weekly brushing is all you need! Weighing in around 50-70 lbs, they are a good choice if you’d like a bit larger dog. Don’t be afraid to take this canine places – they especially love to go swimming! They need plenty of exercise, so don’t choose this breed if you don’t have time to devote to playtime.
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