Which Dog Breed is Best for Families?
A family is in need of a friendly, easygoing dog who will get along with other pets in their community. Which breed should they choose?
Jolanta Benal, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA
Question: We live in a fairly large apartment complex with many other families and pets. We’re thinking of getting a dog. Any breed suggestions?
Answer: You may be better off avoiding the guarding breeds, such as Rottweilers and Akitas. Also think twice – or more — about the flock guardians, like Anatolian Shepherds. Be cautious, too, of any breed whose standard includes terms like “aloof,” “pugnacious,” or “reserved with strangers.” Sometimes these are code for “Once I’m grown up, forget having your takeout delivered.” Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Pugs are generally friendly dogs, as are Beagles and many Labs. Responsible shelters and rescue groups evaluate their dogs’ behavior and will help you make the right match. I also recommend that anyone looking for a dog read Sue Sternberg’s book “Successful Dog Adoption.” Its clear guidance in choosing a family pet emphasizes friendliness.
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About the Author
Jolanta holds professional certifications in both training and behavior counseling and belongs to the Association of Professional Dog Trainers and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. She also volunteered with Pet Help Partners, a program of the Humane Society of the United States that works to prevent pet relinquishment. Her approach is generally behaviorist (Pavlovian, Skinnerian and post-Skinnerian learning theory) with a big helping of ethology (animal behavior as observed in non-experimental settings).