A top dog expert has revealed his ultimate picks for family-friendly breeds, known for their stellar temperaments and affinity for children.
In the UK, where dogs are more than just pets, they are part of the family, choosing the right furry friend is crucial. With the joy a dog brings comes great responsibility, so selecting a breed that meshes with your household and lifestyle while keeping the mayhem to a minimum is key.
Canine expert Will Atherton, who runs a dedicated dog training centre in Derbyshire, has divulged his go-to breeds for families. Will emphasised the gravity of the decision, stating: "Choosing the breed for you is always important, but when there're children involved it goes from important to mandatory in my opinion and these are my personal favourites for the role!".
He continued: "These are the three breed that I think are perfect for families. Now usually when I talk about breed I give people a choice at different size ranges whereas I'm going to scrap that. I'm just going to go for three breeds that I think are perfectly regardless of size."
However, it's vital to conduct thorough research before bringing a dog into your home, as these recommendations are subjective. What suits one family might not be ideal for another.
Topping Will's list is the English Mastiff. Despite their imposing size, these pups are known as gentle giants. They're smart, thrive in a domestic setting, and have a protective streak. Plus, they're all about playtime and meaningful interaction.
Will expressed his enthusiasm for English mastiffs, noting their exceptional suitability as family pets: "There's a reason that I brought an English mastiff into my home and she proof in the pudding that they are incredible family dogs."
With regards to golden retrievers, these stunning canines are renowned for being fantastic family pets. Known for their gentleness, affectionate and playful demeanour, they are avid walkers and known for their patience.
They are also friendly towards strangers and compatible with other household pets.
Will extolled them saying, "Absolutely incredible dogs, amazing temperaments. Wonderful with children, wonderful with other dogs and a joy to share your life with."
As for the Labrador, another breed celebrated for its suitability for family life, it is characterised by a friendly, playful, and loving personality. They thrive around kids and typically get along with other animals.
Possessing boundless energy and intelligence, Labradors respond well to training and require plenty of exercise and outdoor activities. He added a comparison: "With everything I just said about the golden retriever applying here, but maybe a little bit more is the Labrador."
The public responded to Will's insights, with one individual contributing: "We have labs and a Goldador. They are amazing for active families, special needs families, and hunting. They're the best of everything!".
Another confided their decision: "Getting a golden for our family dog soon so I'm glad to hear you say that!" An additional voice asserted: "Labradors - King of all dog breeds. I've owned many different breeds and have my first Lab. I'll never own another breed."
One person shared a heartwarming anecdote: "My nephew used to routinely watch TV snuggled up to our Lab, a dog and easily 3 times his size. They are truly the best."
Echoing the sentiment, another dog lover exclaimed: "My lab/golden mix is the best dog I have ever had," while one more added: "I have a lab and she's amazing with my son," A different perspective was offered by someone who believes: "English springer spaniel is a smaller version of the golden in my opinion".
Another chimed in with their own experience: "I have a golden retriever and a cavalier King Charles spaniel. Both amazing family dogs. Great with the kids. Great with other dogs."
Reflecting on a bittersweet memory, an individual remarked: "I loved my English mastiff with my whole heart but they have such a short life span, I couldn't go through that again."
The conversation about top dog breeds continued as one commented: "Definitely the newfoundland or cavalier king Charles should be in top...instead of mastiff and golden retriever.
"Bernese all day," another advocated. Adding to the diverse opinions, one enthusiast declared: "I LOVE MY DOBERMANS! Such great family dogs and absolutely loving with children and great guard dogs!".
