Picking a Pup: The Best Family Dogs, Small Dogs, & More

Adopting a dog is one of the most exciting stages of life.

Often, it’s not until you decide to get a dog that you realize how many breeds there are to consider and how your lifestyle may influence your choice. But rest assured, whether you’ve got young kids, allergies, or a small living space, there’s a dog out there for you. Here are our top dog picks for every lifestyle.

 

The best dogs for families

Dogs and kids go together like peanut butter and jelly. There’s no better way to teach children responsibility, compassion, and companionship than by raising them with a pup. But you may not want to bring just any dog into your family—especially if you have young children. Here are our top picks for family dogs.

 

Golden Retriever

Goldens are the quintessential family dog, and for good reason. These dogs are filled with joy and a desire to play, but their patience with children sets them apart as family dogs. Just look into a Golden Retriever’s friendly brown eyes and you’re sure to fall in love!

Cocker Spaniel

If you (or your kids) have seen “Lady and the Tramp”, you’re sure to be familiar with this beautiful breed. Cocker Spaniels combine their sweet demeanor with general playfulness and are often found following their owners wherever they go. Highly adaptable and eager to please, Cocker Spaniels make great family pups.

Newfoundland

Nicknamed the “nanny dog”, Newfoundlands are truly gentle giants. These pups can reach up to 150 pounds, meaning you should only adopt this breed if you have ample play and living space. Given you have enough room for this giant, a Newfoundland may be the most kid-friendly dog alive. There’s no pooch more patient, friendly, and loving.

 

The best dogs for apartment living

Living in a city or a smaller space doesn’t mean you can’t adopt a furry friend. These small dog breeds can thrive without a yard, and their personalities are perfect for apartment lifestyles.

French Bulldog

Known for their signature “bat ears”, French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dogs in America. And who could you blame? French Bulldogs are friendly, smart, sociable, and easy to groom. Great for apartment dwellers, these pups love a daily walk but don’t need much additional exercise to thrive.

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier makes up in personality what it lacks in size. These pooches have a lot of energy but don’t require much space, just as long as Yorkie owners spend time walking and playing with their pet. If you want a small dog with a lot of spunk to liven up apartment life, Yorkshire Terriers are a great choice.

Maltese

If you’re looking for a friendly dog with lots of heart, a Maltese may be the pooch for you. These tiny dogs are great companions and therapy dogs, but they love to have fun, too. Better yet, the Maltese adapts well to apartment life and hardly sheds.

 

The best hypoallergenic dogs

Being allergic to pet dander doesn’t mean you can’t adopt a furry friend. Here are our top picks for “hypoallergenic”, or non-shedding, pups.

Poodle

Known for their many best-in-show titles, Poodles are famously pretty pups. But that curly coat is also perfect for allergy sufferers, as Poodles don’t shed. They’re great companions for dog owners seeking an intelligent, playful, and regal pooch. Plus, Poodles come in three sizes—Toy, Miniature, and Standard—making them perfect for any living space.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier feels exactly like its name suggests—soft. Kids will love a Wheaten’s curly coat and sweet demeanor, while allergy sufferers will rejoice at the lack of pet dander in a Wheaten’s house. But that’s not to say these medium-sized family dogs are easy to groom. If you decide to adopt a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, get ready for frequent brushing and beard trims.

Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound packs all the punch of a Standard Greyhound in a much smaller package. These hypoallergenic pooches are athletic, loving, and a little goofy. Watch them climb your furniture like a cat or chase a creature through your yard and you’ll realize how much these small dogs love attention.

 

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Whatever dog you choose, be sure to adopt from a place that prioritizes your dog’s health. Puppy mills can be dangerous or cruel to the dogs they breed, so be sure to research for a reputable breeder if you choose that route. Luckily, there are plenty of pups searching for loving homes at adoption shelters and rescue clubs.

Dog shelters host pups of every breed imaginable—and you don’t need a purebred to experience the benefits of a specific breed. At the end of the day, choosing a dog that you connect with matters most. And when you do decide to adopt, be sure to show your pup some love.

Best Bully Sticks provides high-quality treats at affordable prices. Whether you’re training your pooch or simply telling them you love them, a treat from Best Bully Sticks sends the message. Visit our website to shop now, or learn more pet tips on our blog!

 

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