Best Dog Breeds for Families
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes – and many make good family pets due to their friendly nature, intelligence, and adaptability. There is no such thing as ‘the best dog breed’, and great dogs come in purebreds, mixes, rescues and beyond!
Rather than presenting ‘the best breeds’, this article explores 20 popular breeds which often make great family dogs in Australia, offering insights into their characteristics and why they are a positive addition to any household. From low-shedding small breeds to energetic medium-sized dogs and affectionate large breeds, here’s a run down of some friendly pups to flourish in your family dynamic.
A Note on Dog Breeds
All dog breeds, whether purebred or mixed, purchased from a breeder or adopted from a shelter, have unique qualities that make them wonderful companions. Purebred dogs can offer predictability in terms of size, temperament, and care needs, while mixed breeds often combine the best traits of several breeds, sometimes with fewer health issues. This article is just a fun look at various dog breeds that suit different family needs and preferences. Remember, every dog, regardless of its breed, brings joy, love, and loyalty into our lives. Thinking of brining home a new puppy? Visit our puppy hub!
Best Small Dog Breeds for Families
When it comes to choosing a family dog, some prospective pet parents are interested in smaller breeds for a variety of reasons.
Small dogs can require less space, making them a popular preference for apartment living or homes with limited yard space. Their compact size, combined with their affectionate and playful personalities, makes small dogs a popular choice for families looking for a loving and manageable pet.
Maltese Shih Tzu
• Average Height: 20-28 cm
• Average Weight: 4-7 kg
• Temperament: Playful, loyal, and alert
• Shedding: Low
The Maltese Shih Tzu is a small, charming breed that combines the lovable traits of its parent breeds. They are playful and loyal, thriving in family environments where they can get plenty of attention and love.
Border Terrier
• Average Height: 25-28 cm
• Average Weight: 5-7 kg
• Temperament: Affectionate, obedient, and fearless
• Shedding: Low to moderate
Border Terriers are affectionate and obedient, known for their fearless nature. These plucky pups are excellent with children and other pets, making them a solid choice for families.
Best Small Dog Breeds for Families Non-Shedding
Many families seek small dog breeds that are low shedding to minimise allergens and maintenance, but it's important to note that even breeds dubbed 'hypoallergenic' can shed slightly, and low shedding doesn't necessarily mean no shedding. Here are some breeds to consider if you’re looking for a low-shedding breed in a pint size.
Havanese
• Average Height: 23-27 cm
• Average Weight: 4-7 kg
• Temperament: Affectionate, intelligent, and friendly
• Shedding: Low
Havanese dogs are affectionate and intelligent, with a friendly disposition that makes them great companions for children. Their low-shedding coats are often a preference for families with allergies.
Cavoodle
• Average Height: 25-38 cm
• Average Weight: 5-12 kg
• Temperament: Affectionate, friendly, and social
• Shedding: Low
The Cavoodle is a delightful mix of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle. They are known for their gentle and loving nature, making them excellent companions for children. Their low-shedding coats are a bonus for families with allergies.
Toy poodle
• Average Height: 24-28 cm
• Average Weight: 3-4 kg
• Temperament: Intelligent, alert, and active
• Shedding: Low
Toy Poodles are intelligent and alert, with a high level of trainability. Their small size and low-shedding coat make them a great choice for families living in apartments or those with allergies.
Bichon Frise
• Average Height: 23-30 cm
• Average Weight: 3-5 kg
• Temperament: Cheerful, affectionate, and playful
• Shedding: Low
The Bichon Frise is a small, cheerful breed known for its fluffy white coat and affectionate nature. They are playful and enjoy the company of children and other pets, making them excellent family companions. Their low-shedding coat is ideal for families with allergies, and their friendly and outgoing disposition ensures they fit well into any household. Bichon Frises thrive on human interaction and are happiest when included in family activities. Their manageable size and gentle temperament make them particularly well-suited for families living in apartments or smaller homes.
Best Small to Medium Family Dogs
For families seeking a dog that is still small but with a bit more heft, small to medium breeds offer a perfect balance of manageable size and robust presence, making them ideal companions for active households.
Spoodle
• Average Height: 25-38 cm
• Average Weight: 5-14 kg
• Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, and playful
• Shedding: Low to moderate
Spoodles are friendly and intelligent, combining the traits of Cocker Spaniels and Poodles. They are playful and great with kids, making them wonderful family pets.
Long-Haired Dachshund
• Average Height: 20-23 cm
• Average Weight: 7-15 kg
• Temperament: Curious, friendly, and courageous
• Shedding: Moderate
Long Haired Dachshunds are curious and friendly, known for their courageous nature. They are good with children and enjoy being part of family activities. They typically have a different temperament to their smooth-coated and wire-haired counterparts. This is attributed to their genetic background which includes some spaniel ancestry. This spaniel influence is believed to contribute to their softer, more relaxed temperament. Long-Haired Dachshunds are known for being calmer, gentler, and more affectionate than the other varieties in the breed. They tend to be more laid-back and less noisy, which makes them excellent companions for families looking for an easy-going pet.
Shetland Sheepdog
• Average Height: 33-41 cm
• Average Weight: 6-12 kg
• Temperament: Playful, energetic, and gentle
• Shedding: Moderate to high
Shetland Sheepdogs are playful and energetic, with a gentle disposition. They are good with children and enjoy participating in family activities.
Medium Sized Best Family Dogs
Medium-sized dogs strike a perfect balance for many families, offering the benefits of both small and large breeds; they are often more robust and active than smaller dogs, yet some people hold the view that they are easier to manage than larger breeds, making them ideal companions for active households with children.
Australian Bulldog
• Average Height: 45-50 cm
• Average Weight: 28-35 kg
• Temperament: Loyal, affectionate, and good-natured
• Shedding: Moderate
Australian Bulldogs are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature. They thrive in a family environment, enjoying interactions with all members. These dogs are robust and have been bred to be healthier and more athletic than their English Bulldog ancestors, with fewer breathing issues due to a slightly longer snout. They do require weekly brushing and regular cleaning of their facial wrinkles to prevent infections. Intelligent and responsive to training, Australian Bulldogs make excellent companions, especially with proper socialisation from a young age.
Border Collie
• Average Height: 48-56 cm
• Average Weight: 14-20 kg
• Temperament: Intelligent, energetic, and loyal
• Shedding: Moderate
Border Collies are highly intelligent and energetic, making them perfect for active families. Their loyalty and keen sense of responsibility often see them forming strong bonds with their human companions.
Australian Shepherd
• Average Height: 46-58 cm
• Average Weight: 18-29 kg
• Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, and good-natured
• Shedding: Moderate to high
Australian Shepherds are known for their high energy levels and intelligence. They thrive in active households and enjoy participating in family activities, making them a great choice for those who can provide ample exercise and mental stimulation.
Best Large Family Dogs
Bigger size? More to love! Many families may prefer large-sized dogs for their gentle and affectionate nature, often finding them to be lovable giants who provide companionship and joy to all family members.
Golden Retriever
• Average Height: 51-61 cm
• Average Weight: 25-34 kg
• Temperament: Friendly, tolerant, and reliable
• Shedding: High
Golden Retrievers are renowned for their friendly and tolerant attitudes. Overall, they are patient and gentle with children, making them great family dogs. Their high energy levels mean they enjoy plenty of play and outdoor activities, so they’re a better fit for active families.
Labrador
• Average Height: 54-62 cm
• Average Weight: 25-36 kg
• Temperament: Outgoing, even-tempered, and gentle
• Shedding: Moderate to high
Labrador Retrievers are outgoing and even-tempered, known for their gentle and friendly disposition. They are generally excellent with children and other pets, making them ideal for families.
Bernese Mountain Dog
• Average Height: 60-70 cm
• Average Weight: 35-55 kg
• Temperament: Good-natured, calm, and strong
• Shedding: Moderate to high
Bernese Mountain Dogs are good-natured and calm, with a strong and protective nature. They are excellent family pets, particularly for those looking for a larger, loyal companion.
Best Large Family Dogs that Don’t Shed
Families looking for large dogs that are better suited for allergy sufferers often choose breeds considered low shedding. However, it's important to remember that 'don't shed' is too absolute; these breeds may still shed, just less than most other breeds, helping to minimise allergens in the home.
Groodle
• Average Height: 35-65 cm
• Average Weight: 10-32 kg
• Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, and social
• Shedding: Low
Groodles combine the traits of Golden Retrievers and Poodles. They are friendly, intelligent, and social, making them great family pets.
Black Russian Terrier
• Average Height: 64-74 cm
• Average Weight: 36-65 kg
• Temperament: Confident, calm, and loyal
• Shedding: Low
Black Russian Terriers are confident and calm, with a loyal nature that makes them great for families looking for a protective companion.
Best Family Guard Dogs Australia
Some families may seek family dogs which can double as guard dogs. These are some breeds that typically provide both protection and affectionate companionship, ensuring safety while being gentle and loyal members of the household.
German Shepherd
• Average Height: 55-65 cm
• Average Weight: 22-40 kg
• Temperament: Loyal, courageous, and intelligent
• Shedding: High
German Shepherds are versatile and highly trainable, known for their loyalty and protective nature. They make excellent family pets and are particularly good with children, offering both companionship and security. German shepherds, like many breeds, require proper socialisation and training – but they can be a loyal and valued addition to the right family.
Airedale Terrier
• Average Height: 56-61 cm
• Average Weight: 18-29 kg
• Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, and courageous
• Shedding: Low
Airedale Terriers are intelligent and friendly, with a courageous disposition. They are good with children and can adapt well to family life. Known as ‘the king of terriers’ these dogs typically have a big bark which makes them ideal for guard dog duty!
Giant Schnauzer
• Average Height: 60-70 cm
• Average Weight: 25-48 kg
• Temperament: Loyal, alert, and playful
• Shedding: Low
Giant Schnauzers are loyal and alert, known for their playful nature. They make excellent family pets, particularly for those looking for a larger breed that doesn't shed much.
FAQs on Dog Breeds for Families
Best family dog?
There is no such thing as ‘the best dog’. The best family dog depends on your family's lifestyle and needs – and may not be a breed at all, but a rescue or a mix! If you’re considering a new puppy for the family, consider what traits you’re looking for and choose a dog that is the right fit for your family.
Best family dog breeds?
The best family dog breed differs depending on the family and their needs. Some popular choices include Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Cavoodles, and Border Collies. These breeds are known for their friendly temperaments and adaptability to family life. However, the right dog will depend on the family in question.
What dog breed should I get?
Consider your living situation, activity level, and any allergies when choosing a dog breed. Smaller, low-shedding breeds like Cavoodles and Toy Poodles are great for apartments, while active families might prefer Border Collies or Australian Shepherds.
What is the most popular dog breed?
In Australia, some of the most popular dog breeds include the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Cavoodle. These breeds are favoured for their friendly and adaptable nature.
What is the biggest dog breed?
The largest dog breeds include the Great Dane, Irish Wolfhound, and St. Bernard. These breeds can be gentle giants but require plenty of space!
What is the smallest dog breed?
The smallest dog breed is the Chihuahua, which typically weighs between 1.5 to 3 kg and stands about 15 to 23 cm tall. They are known for their bold and spirited personalities despite their small size.