So, you’ve decided to get a family dog. The big question now, is which breed of dog should you get?
There are many things to consider about your family’s lifestyle before deciding which breed is going to be best for you: how much time do you have to devote to a dog? Will there be people around during the week, or is the house empty for most of the day? Are you prepared to go out for walks with your dog, even when it’s cold or raining?
If, after answering those questions, getting a dog is still seems like the right decision, here’s a list of five great dog breeds to help you choose.
Golden Retriever
Cute and cuddly as puppies, Golden Retrievers grow into a medium-sized cute and cuddly grown-up dog – the golden retriever is happiest when he’s close to you.
Golden retrievers will fit in with large or small families, and those with toddlers and teenagers or any child in between. Being intelligent and eager to please, they’re easy to train too. If you’re after a guard dog, however, the golden retriever might not be for you – believing everyone is their friend, they’re more likely to welcome a burglar in, rather than scare them off!
Labrador Retriever
Labrador retrievers are friendly, loyal and enthusiastic. They never do anything in half measures – when they work, they work hard. When they play, they play hard. And when they eat, they EAT!
Labs need lots of space, lots of attention, and plenty of exercise – don’t expect him to be happy sitting around all day, he was bred to work. Labrador retrievers are very easy to train, they’re also great with children and best suited to a family who enjoys outdoor activities and happy for a four-legged companion to join in with them. The Labrador makes one of the best all-round family dogs.
Beagle
If space is something you need to consider, then obviously a Great Dane is not going to be a perfect fit for you. How about a Beagle then?
Beagles were originally bred as hunting hounds and love nothing more than being part of a pack. This makes them ideal for larger families where they can feel part of a team and are guaranteed bucket loads of attention.
The Beagle is outgoing and friendly, well behaved and won’t grow too big. They’re patient and tolerant, which always makes them a popular choice for families with young children.
Dachshund
If space is really an issue for you, you need a small dog. Don’t be fooled by the Daschund’s small size – what he lacks in stature he more than makes up for with attitude and ego!
Unlike other breeds of lapdog, Daschies are extremely playful and love nothing more than being the centre of attention. If long walks in the bush with your dog isn’t something that’s on your agenda, then consider this little guy – whilst they’re energetic they don’t need to walk for miles every day, your little Daschund is going to be perfectly happy just rushing around in the garden.
Lovable Mutt
Finally, there’s the loveable mutt. And whilst they’re not a pedigree breed, they are just as loveable and their broad genetic mix makes them less prone to specific health problems that often affect their pure breed cousins.
Loveable mutts are generally intelligent and rather sporty. They like to run and play, but are equally happy chilling out at your feet – or more likely, stretched out on the sofa next to you!
Above all else, remember that owning a dog is a privilege and a big responsibility. They’re going to be with you for at least 10 to 15 years, and will require food, water, exercise, love and commitment.
Think seriously before welcoming a dog into your family, and if you don’t think you can give them the life they deserve, then wait until you can.
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