When considering adding a furry friend to your family, many people automatically think of going to a pet store and buying a dog. However, this is not the only option! You can also choose to rescue a dog from a shelter. This has many benefits, including the fact that you can find breeds that are best-suited for your family since you’re not limited to one specific breeder. In this blog post, we will discuss five dog breeds that are perfect for families, and our recommendation is for you to use this knowledge to pick a mix breed from a shelter that embodies the characteristics of these great dogs.

Labrador Retrievers

Labrador retrievers are one of the most popular family dogs for good reason: they are gentle, patient, and love to play. They make great cuddle buddies and will quickly become a part of the family. They are considered a large dog, which may be a deal-breaker for some families, but it is a natural quality that makes them less skittish around children than smaller dogs. Labradors are also highly intelligent which makes them great at hunting and training. But it also means they can get bored easily, so lots of training and play time is required, especially as puppies.

Bulldogs

Bulldogs are another excellent choice for families with a characteristic squishy face can melt any heart. They may look tough on the outside, but they are actually very loving and affectionate. They make excellent guard dogs but are also known to be great with kids. They don’t need a lot of exercise; in fact, it’s important to pay close attention to their breathing when exercising and know when to tone it down. But that makes them perfect for families who want a low-maintenance pet, and they are also relatively low-shedding.

Golden Retrievers

Golden retrievers are the third breed on our list and are another popular family dog. They have all the same qualities as Labrador retrievers but are considered a medium-sized dog. They were originally bred as hunting dogs, so they have a lot of energy and need lots of exercise. But if you can provide them with the activity they need, they make loyal and loving family companions. You will need to be prepared for their shedding and coat grooming.

Beagles

Beagles are our fourth breed and are known for being active and playful. They make great family dogs because they are friendly and love to be around people. They need a lot of exercise, so they’re perfect for families who like to go on walks or hikes together. Beagles are also relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming and shed less than their hound cousins, the Labrador and the golden retrievers. These dogs are prone to easy weight-gain, so be extra careful with table scraps to keep a healthy companion. And be prepared for some dog vocalization because these puppies like to hear their voice.

Pugs

Pugs round out our list as the fifth best breed for families. They are small but mighty, and their personality is sure to win you over. Pugs are known for being clowns, and they will make you laugh with their silly antics. But they also need a lot of love and attention and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for too long. They don’t require a lot of exercise, but they do need to be groomed regularly to keep their coat from matting.

We hope we helped you in your journey to finding the perfect family dog. Remember, there are many amazing dogs of all breeds waiting to be rescued from shelters, so don’t forget to consider them when looking for your new furry friend! And when you do, be sure to clean your home with products that will keep them from harm, like pet-safe Melaleuca Products. Head down to your local shelter today and let the perfect mix breed steal your heart.