How We Chose the Right Dog Breed for Our Family (And What We Learned Along the Way)
Choosing a dog for your family is exciting—but let’s be honest, it can also feel a bit overwhelming. There are so many breeds to choose from, and you want to get it right. For us, it wasn’t just about finding a cute face (though that helped!); we wanted a dog that fit our lifestyle, energy levels, and worked well with the kids.
If you’re in the same boat, here’s what I found while researching and eventually choosing the perfect pup for our family. Hopefully, it helps you make a decision you won’t just feel good about—but absolutely love.
What’s the Most Family-Friendly Dog?
Honestly, we kept hearing the same thing again and again: Labradors are the gold standard for families. And after meeting a few, it totally made sense. They’re gentle, patient, loyal, and always seem happy to be around people—especially kids.
Here’s why we fell in love with them:
- They’re super friendly with everyone (including other dogs).
- They’re easy to train—especially with treats involved.
- They’ve got loads of energy, which matched perfectly with our busy, active household.
We also looked at Golden Retrievers (just as loving but a bit calmer) and Beagles, which are smaller and very playful. All of them seemed like great options for families.
What’s the Best Dog for Families with Young Kids?
When our children were younger, I was really cautious about bringing a dog into the mix. We wanted a breed that was gentle, patient, and not easily fazed by loud noises or enthusiastic hugs. That’s when we discovered Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
These little dogs are absolute sweethearts. Calm, affectionate, and happy to snuggle on the sofa—they’re perfect for homes with toddlers.
Other breeds we considered:
- Newfoundlands: Massive, but so gentle they’re called “nanny dogs” for a reason.
- Boxers: Great fun for older kids who can match their energy.
- Shih Tzus: Small, tough, and love being lap dogs—brilliant for quieter households.
What’s the Safest Dog Breed?
Safety was top of mind for us—especially with kids around. We were looking for a dog that wouldn’t snap, scare easily, or be too rough when playing.
Beagles came up again and again. They’re just naturally even-tempered and love being part of a pack (aka your family). Medium-sized and always up for a game, they felt like a safe, fun option for almost any home.
We also seriously considered:
- Collies: Loyal and protective, but still gentle.
- Irish Setters: A bit bigger, but very sweet and playful.
- Bichon Frises: Hypoallergenic and cuddly—great if you’ve got allergy concerns.
What’s the Best Dog for an Active Family?
If your weekends involve hikes, park runs, or non-stop outdoor adventures, you’ll want a dog that can keep up. For us, that dog was the Border Collie.
They’re super intelligent and always ready to go. They love challenges, games, and learning tricks—which made them a perfect match for our on-the-move lifestyle.
Other breeds we liked for active families:
- Springer Spaniels: Boundless energy and always keen to explore.
- Australian Shepherds: Clever, loyal, and quick learners.
- Siberian Huskies: Gorgeous and full of stamina (though better suited for more experienced dog owners).
Honourable Mentions
We also met a few other amazing breeds that didn’t quite make our shortlist but are well worth considering:
- Poodles (both standard and miniature): Incredibly smart, great with kids, and don’t shed as much.
- Dachshunds: Small but confident—probably better for families with older children.
- Staffies (Staffordshire Bull Terriers): Don’t let the tough look fool you—these dogs are softies at heart and brilliant with children.
Final Thoughts
In the end, choosing the right dog isn’t about picking the best breed—it’s about finding the right match for your lifestyle. Maybe you want a gentle little snugglebug like a Cavalier, or maybe you’re after a high-energy buddy for your weekend hikes. Either way, there’s a breed out there that’ll slot right into your life.
If I could offer one piece of advice, it’s this: take your time. Meet a few dogs, chat with breeders or rescues, and trust your gut. The right pup will just feel like part of the family the moment you meet them.
And once they’re home? Get ready for muddy paws, chewed socks, and more love than you ever thought possible.
