Having a family dog is a great experience for both parents and children.  They will bond with you like another member of the family, teach your kids responsibility, provide endless amounts of fun and love, and even boost your family’s immune system!  If you have decided you want to get a family dog, you might be wondering which breed is best.  There are many different dog breeds with their own unique personality and activity level.  And just like dog breeds, each family is different and has its own unique personality and activity level so it is important to choose the right dog breed for the benefit of your family and your dog.  Below are some helpful tips to guide you when choosing the right dog breed for your family:

1. Consider Activity Level
   • One of the most important things to consider when choosing a dog breed is activity level. Some dogs are very active and require more exercise and attention than other dog breeds that are more relaxed and calm.  If your family is very active, loves to be outdoors, and wants a dog that can keep up with that lifestyle.  Some energetic dog breeds include Weimaraner, Border Collie, various breeds of Shepherd, various breeds of Terriers, Sheep Dog, Dalmatian, and more.  Lower energy dog breeds include Bulldog, Mastiff, Great Dane, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bichon Frise, Chow Chow, Pekingese, and more.
2. Consider Allergies
   • Does anyone in your family have an allergy to dogs? If so, there are some dog breeds that are hypoallergenic and may not agitate allergies, including Poodle, Maltese, Chinese Crested, Bichon Frise, Coton de Tulear, Labradoodle, Portuguese Water Dog, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, and more.
3. Consider Grooming Requirements
   • Almost all dogs require some amount of grooming but some are far more high maintenance than others. Some may only need occasional brushing, nail trims and bathing.  But other breeds, such as long or curly coated breeds, require weekly grooming.  Dog breeds that require frequent grooming include Australian Shepherd, Bearded Collie, Bloodhound, Chow Chow, Afghan Hound, Siberian Husky, and more.  And, dogs that require less frequent grooming include Italian Greyhound, Boston Terrier, Miniature Pinscher, Dalmatian, Chihuahua, Dachschund, Russell Terrier, and more.
4. Consider if They are Family Friendly
   • Not all dogs are made for the family life. Children tend to grab dogs, pull on dog’s tails, be right in their face, climb on dogs and be generally playful.  It is, of course, important to teach your children to be respectful of your dog’s personal space but children are children and sometimes they get too excited.  For this reason, you want a dog that is more inclined to children.  Kid-friendly dog breeds include American Water Spaniel, Basset Hound, Beagle, Boston Terrier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Golden Retriever, Collie, Poodle, Labrador Retriever, and more.01