Five Awesome Dog Breeds for Families
Posted by Hot Dog Collars on 09/06/16 10:22 AM
Choosing what type of dog to adopt is a big decision, and when kids are
involved it becomes even more important to make a wise choice. Families need
dogs that are affectionate, easy-going, and sturdy. While children benefit
from almost any well-treated dog, some breeds are especially well-known for
their family-friendly dispositions.
Golden Retrievers
Golden retrievers are friendly, smart and loyal. Recognized by the
American Kennel Club as the 3rd most popular dog breed in the United States,
they're a popular choice for families. They respond well to training and are
gentle with kids.
Goldens are active and need space to run and play; homes with large
backyards are ideal. Due to their lively nature, they do best with daily walks
and plenty of stimulation. They're gangly and playful as puppies and benefit
from early socialization and obedience training.
Care
They require regular brushings to keep their coats in good condition.
They shed a moderate amount, but regular brushing will help minimize it.
Size and Life Span
Golden retrievers are large dogs. Their average weight is between 60-75 pounds, and their average life span is 10-12 years.
Beagles
Beagles are sturdy, social and clever. Their playfulness and love of
children make them great companions for kids. They love to explore and can
entertain themselves for hours sniffing around in the back yard.
While loveable, beagles are well-known for their stubbornness. They're
trainable, but they're not easily trainable. It will take time and consistency
for them to learn to follow commands and even then, they'll probably never be
perfectly obedient. However, if you're willing to work with them, they're
great pets.
Beagles are scent hounds, so you have to keep a close eye on them
outdoors. They will instinctually follow a scent, so they need to be kept in a
fenced area or on a run.
Care
They have short hair and shed. Regular brushing will help minimize
shedding. Some owners prefer professional grooming but with regular at-home
care, it's not usually necessary.
Size and Life Span
Beagles are medium-sized dogs. Their average weight is between 20-30
pounds, and their average life span is 12-15 years.
Collies
Collies are easy to train and mild-mannered. These sweet-tempered dogs
love children and are protective of them. Collies are predictable, gentle, and
good first-time dogs for families.
These social creatures enjoy playing and like to be involved with
everything the family is doing. Collies were bred to herd livestock, thus they
are prone to barking. To keep this from becoming a problem, it's important to
give them plenty of social interaction and teach them the quiet command.
Collies are intelligent; they'll benefit from ongoing training and they
love to learn tricks. Training will keep their minds stimulated and help
prevent boredom.
Care
Collies need brushing once or twice a week and bathing every 6 to 8
weeks. Due to their thick, fluffy coats, many owners opt for professional
grooming.
Size and Life Span
Collies are medium-sized dogs. They weigh between 50-70 pounds, and
their average life span is 10-14 years.
Bulldogs
Bulldogs are gentle, friendly and brave. Known for their courage and
loyalty, these sweet, sturdy dogs are great companions for kids. Their docile
temperament appeals to many families who want to keep their homes peaceful and
quiet.
Bulldogs like to cuddle and nap. They're not known for romping around
the backyard, so they're well-suited for apartment living. A daily walk is usually
enough exercise to keep them happy.
While bulldogs' relaxed temperaments make them easy to maintain in a
household, they're more prone to health problems such as hip dysplasia and
respiratory illnesses than other dogs.
Care
Bulldogs' coats are smooth and short. They're easy to maintain but
require regular brushing. They don't tend to shed much, and their skin folds
require regular cleaning. Due to the compact nature of their jaws, regular
brushing is an absolute must.
Size and Life Span
Bulldogs are medium-sized dogs. Their average weight is about 50 pounds,
and their average life span is 8-12 years.
Irish Setters
Irish Setters are playful, people-loving dogs that need lots of human
companionship. These energetic canines require plenty of exercise, making them
the perfect playmates for active kids. However, care should be taken in homes
with young children because they tend to be lively. With adequate exercise and
training, these intelligent creatures can learn to exhibit excellent behavior.
They're happiest in homes with large yards with plenty of play space.
They need daily walks and room to run.
Care
Irish Setters' beautiful mahogany coats require regular brushing and
professional grooming. With regular brushing, they don't shed much.
Size and Life Span
Irish Setters are large dogs. Their average weight is between 60-70
pounds, and their average life span is between 11-12 years.
Regardless of the breed you choose, they all need the same basic treatment. They all need love, attention, veterinarian care, training, and good nutrition. When you supply these five components consistently, you'll have a happy, healthy companion your whole family will enjoy.