Labrador retrievers are the perfect choice among active family dog breeds. They are equally content to relax at home while the kids do their homework, or join you for long jogs or family hikes.
When choosing a dog breed that will fit into your active family schedule, consider two essential factors. One, will the dog interact well with children. And, two, will the dog be able to keep up with your active lifestyle.
Although all dogs enjoy outdoor activities, some breeds are more suitable for a relaxed, easy-going way of living. On the other hand, some dogs will follow you on more hectic days with running, biking, camping, hiking, and even swimming.
Here are five fun-loving, active family dog breeds that are perfect for energetic, sporty families.
Collie
The collie is a sturdy, beautiful, smart dog that is social and playful.
We are all familiar with the famous Lassie, the epitome of a loyal, intelligent, and irresistibly loving four-legged friend. It’s no wonder Lassie is a Collie since these sturdy, beautiful smarties are very social and playful, perfect for children of all ages.
Collies are a gentle and predictable breed, rarely misbehaving and easily trainable, which is perfect for families that are unfamiliar with dogs. A sensitive and intelligent breed, they are both gentle and stubborn, sometimes having a mind of their own.
Nevertheless, they are great companions in fun and sporty occasions, and very much enjoy active running and playing around. With a variety of breeds classified as Collies, such as the Border Collie and Bearded Collie, you can choose the long-coated or the smooth variety, depending on your preferences.
Golden retrievers
Golden retrievers are high-energy dogs that are a good active family dog breed.
When you think of a true “good boy,” a big, goofy Golden Retriever inevitably comes to mind. These dogs are true family dogs, very gentle and patient with children, and above all, extremely trustworthy. These dogs have incredible personalities and stable temperaments that allow for safe, easy handling inside and outside of the house.
The breed generally needs a lot of exercise, especially enjoyable games like fetch (that’s where they got their name from). They very much enjoy bathing and water activities, so swimmer Goldies are not a rarity.
Although their glorious golden coats might appear to require a lot of work, they only need twice weekly brushing to stay neat and clean. There are valuable resources online, like Totally Goldens and others, that provide useful information on proper grooming and care of these friendly dogs.
While the breed can live outside, they prefer cuddling with their humans inside the home.
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Beagle
With their calm temperament and loyalty, beagles make perfect dogs for kids.
Originally bred for hunting, this adorable, long-eared pooch very much enjoys long walks and spending time outdoors. If your family activities include hiking in the woods, a beagle is your dream dog. What’s more, their calm temperament and loyalty, make them perfect for kids or the elderly, as well as for befriending with other dogs.
The Beagle’s small size and short hair make them convenient for carrying around, traveling, and keeping almost anywhere. Although they do shed and need regular grooming and bathing.
The dogs are an excellent choice for families with children who haven’t spent time with dogs. The dogs are cute and likable. Their smaller stature makes them irresistible to children. Beagles are loyal and bond strongly with family members.
Labrador retriever
Labrador retrievers enjoy being with their people.
If you happen to have a pool or go on frequent family trips to the beach, this pup will probably lead the pack when it comes to jumping in first. The Labrador Retriever is a great swimmer, thanks to its webbed feet. Actually, the dogs’ paws have a membrane connecting individual toes, which makes them resemble small paddles that help the dogs move smoothly and easily in the water. The Labrador retriever’s goofy and energetic personality also makes it fun to swim with them.
The dogs enjoy being with their people. They are equally content to relax at home while the kids do their homework, or join you for long jogs or family hikes.
Known for their natural friendliness, intelligence, and gentleness, many Lab owners make the mistake of thinking the dogs don’t need training. On the contrary, Labs do best when they get a lot of mental stimulation and physical activity from a good training session.
Irish setter
The Irish setter needs lots of exercise and is a good match for active kids.
This majestic, red-haired canine, is an excellent family companion and loves being outdoors. Being initially a hound, Irish Setter is versed in energetic hikes, walks and spending time sniffing around. This doggy needs lots of exercise and is a good match for active kids. The setter is a faithful family dog since it does not do well with being left entirely alone.
A smart and trainable companion, the Irish Setter is perfect for people with a yard and is great at greeting new people into your home, as well.
Choose the dog that suits your family
No matter what your final choice of active family dog breeds will be, the most important thing to provide your dog with is attention, time, patience, and love. A happy dog is a good dog.
Work to create a strong bond and develop a loving relationship with your pup by finding activities you all enjoy.
Simon Dupree has loved dogs since he was a boy. In his free time, he enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with his two-year-old golden retriever. If he is not writing for Totally Goldens he is probably out exploring the world with his pawesome friend.
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