We have looked at whether you should get a new puppy or consider a grown dog. And we have discussed how to choose the right dog for your family. So I think you are well on your way to really selecting a dog that will fit right in with your lifestyle.
So today, let’s do something a little different. Below, is a list of dog breeds for your consideration. They are divided up into categories and listed in no particular order. They are definitely not complete, but is meant to be a fun starting point. Please feel free to share your favorite breed in each category in the comments and I will update the lists
.
Here we go…
A List of Dog Breeds That Are Great With Children
If you have children in your family, you will want to make sure that you get a dog that gets along with them. These dogs are known to love children:
Dog Breeds That Require Less Grooming
All dogs need to be groomed. Their coats need to be brushed, their nails need to be trimmed, teeth brushed, and they all need an occasional bath. But in general, these dogs are considered low maintenance when it comes to grooming:
A List of Great Lapdogs
If you are looking for a dog that loves to cuddle, and be snuggled, here are a few to consider:
- Dachshund
- Lhasa Apso
- Maltese
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Shih Tzu
Energetic Dogs
You are an an athletic person and are looking for a dog who can join you for a hike on the trail or a long distance jog. Consider these breeds:
- Australian Shepherd
- Border Collie
- Jack Russell Terrier
- English Springer Spaniel
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
A List of Athletic Dogs
These dogs are considered active, agile, vigorous, and strong:
- Australian Cattle Dog
- Border Collie
- Brittany Spaniels
- German Shepherds
- Greyhound
A List of Dog Breeds Who Tend To Be Obedient Dogs
If you are looking for a dog who listens, and is willing to please, check out these breeds:
- Border Collie
- Doberman Pinscher Dogs
- German Shepherd
- Rottweiler
- Shetland Sheepdog
So what do you think? Did I get them right?
Choosing a Family Dog is a series of articles discussing several things you need to know when deciding to bring a new dog or puppy into your family. Move on to the next article, New Puppy Supplies, or go back to the previous article, Raising Two Puppies.

Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers are known for their people pleasing and obedient natures. They do extremely well in obedience competitions, and are eager to please their owners.
Having owned 2 Retrievers and worked with many others, I can confirm this from experience. These characteristics seem to run through Retrievers of all types. Nice post!
German Shepherds, as long as they are the short-haired kind, are also great “low maintenance grooming” dogs. I have also read many testimonies of well socialized pit bull terriers and bull dogs being great with children. Ciao!