Dogs have been human companions for thousands of years. It comes as no surprise that in these modern times we now live in, where estrangement from other fellow humans seems to be at its peak, canines are more than pets.
For millions around the world, they are friends and cherished family members. For many, dogs are the only friendly face that greets them at the door after a long day.
Even though one might argue that it does not matter what sort of a dog a person has, there have always been dog breeds that are more popular than others, especially when it comes to families with children.
With a bit of work, patience, and a lot of love, just about any dog breed can become a perfect fit, either for an active family or an individual who yearns for that particular friendship and companionship only a dog can provide.
So, what are some popular there are dog breeds that are more popular than others? Why is that so, and which ones continue to be a favorite pick?
What Are the Most Popular Breeds?
While there have been some changes over the years when it comes to the most popular dog breeds for active families, the top five seem to be more or less the same.
Labrador Retriever
This gorgeous dog that hails from Canada has been among the top five favorite breeds since the 1880s, and it is easy to understand why. Retrievers are friendly, happy-go-lucky, great for families with children, and they also get along with other pets. They have a protective streak that makes them great friends and watchdogs, even if you have small children. However, this is a high energy dog that needs physical activity and its behavior and personality also depend on training. Life expectancy for a Labrador is between 10 and 12 years.
Golden Retriever
This is another breed that has been a favorite for a long time due to its friendly nature. They are great for families with small children as Golden retrievers shower their owners with love and are very obedient and intelligent.
They are easy to train and are loyal to their human companions. Golden retrievers can often be seen in the role of helping dogs (service and therapy dogs) for the blind or people with autism.
When it comes to their lifespan, it is common for them to live up to 10 years or more. Another great thing about these dogs is the fact they absolutely love water, which makes summer holidays worth remembering.
German Shepherd
These are majestic and impressive dogs. However, there is so much more to this dog than its good looks. The German shepherd is highly intelligent, courageous, and strong, which is why it is often trained as a military or a police dog.
German shepherds are also loyal and energetic, which means they need to be trained and socialized early on. Moreover, they can sometimes be over-protective or even aggressive if they assess that their favorite human is in danger.
On the other hand, because of their protective and caring nature, they make wonderful family dogs. Again, training and socialization are essential.
French Bulldog
These dogs have bat-like ears, adorably squashed nose, numerous wrinkles, and are full of character. The French bulldog is a terrific dog if you live in an apartment (or have neighbors that love to complain about noise) because it does not bark a lot.
French bulldogs do not require a great deal of exercise. They are one of the breeds that will adapt to just about any circumstance, which means they will make a great companion for both a single person and families with children. Additionally, they are very charming and affectionate and can live up to 12 years.
Beagle
One look into Beagle’s big brown eyes and most of us will melt on the spot. These lovable, kind, and friendly dogs seldom display any signs of aggressive behavior, which makes them perfect for families with children. If you opt for a Beagle as your canine companion, expect to be covered in doggy kisses.
However, do not expect any kind of protection since Beagles love people far too much. Still, they do get excited when people are on the horizon, so they do not completely fail at being watchdogs.
Because they are not territorial dogs, they get along really well with other animals you might have in the house—cats included. Another great thing about them is their long lifespan, as they can live up to 15 years.
Popular Dog Breeds
While these might be the most popular breeds in the dog world, owning a dog is a responsibility, privilege, and joy. Just like us, dogs seek affection, so providing just food and shelter is not enough.
They need love, attention, kindness, and understanding. Once that is established, the relationship is not just a win-win situation, but a valuable companionship that can turn your house into a warm and loving home for both your family and your dog.