Choosing the right dog breed can transform your home life, and who better to guide you than the professionals? Drawing from extensive interviews with veterinarians, professional trainers, and animal behaviorists, we’ve compiled the most comprehensive guide to family-friendly dog breeds. These experts consider factors like temperament, exercise needs, grooming requirements, and compatibility with children. Whether you live in a spacious house or a cozy apartment, there’s a perfect breed waiting to become part of your family.

The Bolognese Dog Has a Serene Energy

The wonderful Bolognese dog hails from Italy, as you might have guessed. They are known for their serene temperament, making them ideal companions for individuals or families seeking a calm and quiet canine companion. Bolognese dogs are not particularly keen on barking and generally prefer a slower pace of life. These white dogs are perfect for those who prefer a low-energy pup, as they tend to prefer lounging around and staying put. However, don’t let their relaxed demeanor fool you – Bolognese dogs are very intelligent and relatively easy to train.

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Until recently, these adorable dogs were quite rare in the United States, but now their breed has become more common and readily available for those looking to adopt.

The Basset Hound Gets Along With Just About Everyone

It’s no surprise that Basset Hounds are as beloved as they are. Aside from having the most adorable faces, they have friendly personalities to match. They’re great with young kids and other dogs due to their incredibly patient nature, and they are generally quite low-energy. As a scent hound, these stocky dogs have an impressive sense of smell, second only to their ancestors, the bloodhounds. If you’re looking for a low-key but lovable pooch, Basset Hounds might make a perfect addition to the family.

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Because Basset Hounds have such a friendly nature, they don’t necessarily make the best guard dogs. However, they’re sure to bring a ton of love and companionship to your home.

The Shih Tzu Makes a Kingly Companion

People with allergies should take note of the Shih Tzu, a playful toy dog that originated in East Asia. Bred from Pekingese and Lhasa Apso dogs, they were so prized by Chinese royalty that they were no longer sold and kept exclusively within royal circles. These ‘lion dogs’ thrive on human affection, so if you’re considering adopting one of these regal pups, be prepared to provide them with lots of love and attention.

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Aside from their lovely personality traits, they have incredible coats that can grow to extreme lengths. They will likely need regular trips to the groomer and frequent brushing.

The Clumber Spaniel Is the Gentleman of the Canine World

While Sussex Spaniels may be the rarest of all the Spaniel dogs, they are not necessarily the calmest. That distinction is bestowed upon the dignified Clumber Spaniel, a hunting dog that is content both outdoors and indoors. Most of all, Clumber Spaniels simply want to spend time with their owners. They are relatively quiet compared to other breeds, so you don’t have to worry about your pup keeping the neighbors up at night.

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These friendly dogs are renowned for their gentlemanly demeanor, but potential owners should be aware that they will have to put up with significant shedding and slobbering.

The Collie Is Very Emotionally Aware

Collies are considered to be the smartest dogs in the world, so it makes sense that they also need owners who are prepared to keep them very mentally stimulated. They’re highly intelligent and sensitive, and while they benefit from a lifestyle that allows them to work, they can be very happy in active family homes. One standout aspect of Collies is their sensitivity to people’s feelings and their emotional awareness.

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Due to their perceptive nature, Collies may do best with a gentle owner who can complement their own gentle personalities. In any case, they make exceptional family dogs.

The English Toy Spaniel Loves Everyone in the Family

A highly social animal, the English Toy Spaniel loves to be around people, making them perfect family dogs. From adults to children, these adorable canine companions have tons of affection to share with everyone in the family. They also get along well with other dogs, making them a wonderful choice for any home. Just keep in mind that the English Toy Spaniel will require regular trips to the groomer and frequent brushing to maintain their beautiful coat.

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But if you ask us, the pros heavily outweigh the cons with this majestic dog breed, as long as you’re willing to manage the shedding.

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier Gives a Warm Welcome

The ancient pure-breed Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier hails from Ireland, where it was once referred to as the ‘Poor Man’s Wolfhound.’ If you enjoy being warmly greeted upon coming home, this dog breed promises to welcome you with open arms, as they are famously enthusiastic upon being reunited with their loved ones. They are so good at greeting you, in fact, that it has been given a name of its own – the ‘Wheaten greetin.’

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As their name suggests, Soft-coated Wheaten Terriers have soft and silky coats that make you feel like your favorite teddy bear has come to life.

The Russian Borzoi Exudes Regal Serenity

The Russian Hunting Sighthound, more commonly referred to as the Russian Borzoi, is possibly the most elegant-looking dog breed to ever exist. They have very long snouts and can stand at 85 cm tall, but it’s their affectionate personalities that win people over. These pups are very gentle, but can be a tad on the stubborn side. Still, they have a calming quality about them and make for a great family pet.

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The elven beauty of the Russian Hunting Sighthound is matched by their peaceful personalities, making them a relaxing and serene presence in any setting.

The Greyhound Is a Great Low-Maintenance Pet

Because the Greyhound was built for speed, many people mistake them for being solely racing dogs, not well suited for family life indoors. However, the truth is that this sighthound loves spending time at home with loved ones just as much as it enjoys other activities. This ancient breed has non-aggressive tendencies and is generally considered sweet and sensitive. While they may sometimes retreat for a bit of alone time, they generally thrive in a family setting.

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Greyhounds make great family dogs because they are relatively low-maintenance, both socially and physically, as long as they have access to areas where they can stretch their legs.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Is Kind to All

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s personality matches its looks: incredibly kind and sweet-natured, happiest when in the company of loved ones. However, their loving personality comes with a price; they don’t like being left alone and aren’t afraid to express their feelings about it. They can suffer from separation anxiety, but if you have the time to dedicate to these gentle pups, they might just make the perfect addition to your family.

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Unlike many of the dog breeds on this list, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can adapt well to an active lifestyle, making them the perfect walking companion.