The best dog breeds for families
Finding the right dog for your family is no easy task. Hundreds of variables come into play, such as size, coat, and temperament.
When it comes to adopting the paw-fect pooch, it is important to make sure they are a good fit for your household and that you are a good fit for them.
All dog breeds, whether purebred or mixed, purchased from a breeder or adopted from a shelter, have unique qualities to offer a family.
Here are the breeds most well-suited to families.
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Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are ultra gentle and patient, though they are also protective.
Known for their lovable energy and enduring love for the water, these dogs aren't ideal for small spaces.
This massive breed averages 60.5kg and stands tall at 68.5cm, which means it requires lots of room to run around.
Surprisingly, it is one of the best breeds for families.
Can you imagine anything cosier than snuggling up with a dog as large as a child? Pure bliss.
Australian shepherd
If you have the space, the Australian shepherd is an incredible option for families looking to get a dog.
The breed is known for its high energy levels and intelligence, though they thrive best in active households.
Australian shepherds grow between 45 and 58cm tall, weighing up to 29kg on average.
This breed is excellent for larger families, as they also need lots of love and attention.
Border collie
Border collies are one of Australia's most beloved dog breeds, and they are perfect for active families.
The breed is highly intelligent and energetic, though it remains loyal to its owners at all costs.
Its keen sense of responsibility often sees it form tight bonds with its family.
Border collies are very large dogs. They can grow up to 50cm tall and weigh between 28kg and 35kg.
If you're looking to add this breed to your family, you must be able to give them lots of exercise.
Russian toy
Russian toy dogs are a tiny breed that is great with kids.
They typically stand between 20cm to 28cm and weigh 1.5 to 3kg.
Renowned for its diminutive size, this breed has short- and long-haired varieties.
This breed is known for its lively, cheerful and intelligent nature, making them a popular choice for families.
Miniature Pinscher
The miniature pinscher, also known as the zwergpinscher, is playful, outgoing and independent, making it an excellent fit for families with children.
This breed weighs 3.6 to 4.5kg and grows to 25-30cm.
However, their assertive and independent nature requires a strong, consistent owner.
If you're a family looking for a Miniature Pinscher, consider checking if you can effectively train them.
Bernese mountain dog
The Bernese mountain dog has a towering stature.
These dogs, averaging 58 and 70cm tall and 40 to 44kg in weight, are very large but also very sweet.
In fact, the Bernese Mountain Dog is great with kids!
Can you imagine a better breed to help your family feel loved and protected?
Great Dane
Great Danes are a mighty breed, hence their regal name.
Although you may not immediately consider them a family breed, they are loved by families outside of Australia.
While some can reach record-breaking heights featured in the Guinness Book of Records, they usually only average 71-76cm.
They weigh around 50kg, though despite being large, they love living with a family.
Labrador
Labradors are well-known as family dogs, praised for their gentle and outgoing nature.
With moderate shedding levels, these dogs grow up to 54 to 62cm tall and, on average, weigh between 25 and 36kg.
This breed is generally ideal for families as they love to play with their companions.
One thing to remember when considering adding this breed to your family is that labradors need training to avoid being mischievous.
Golden Retriever
Golden retrievers are the unofficial poster child of family dogs.
Renowned for their tolerant and friendly nature, these pooches are incredibly patient and gentle with young children, which makes them well-suited to families.
On average, this breed grows to 51 and 61cm tall and weighs from 25 to 34kg.
However, this breed sheds a lot and has high energy levels, making it unsuited for low-activity families.
