Choosing the right dog for your family is an important decision. You need to ensure you do your research on the size, temperament and needs of certain breeds and if they align with your lifestyle and what you can offer.
Here’s a guide to some of the best dog breeds for Australian families
1. Cavoodle
No surprises here! There’s a reason why you see Cavoodles everywhere. They are popular for good reason.
Why They’re Great for Families:
Gentle and affectionate – Cavoodles love human company and are known for their loving and friendly nature.
Hypoallergenic – Their low-shedding coat is perfect for allergy-prone families and you don’t need to vacuum dog hair everyday.
Great with kids – Cavoodles love to play with kids, they are gentle and affectionate.
Adaptable – Suitable for any style of home whether you live in an apartment or houses, as long as they are trained and aware of boundaries, they will adapt to your lifestyle and energy level.
Considerations:
- Cavoodles need professional grooming to maintain their coat.
- They can be prone to separation anxiety so early training is important.
2. Labrador Retriever
Known for their loyalty and playful nature, Labradors are one of the most popular family dogs worldwide.
Why They’re Great for Families:
Friendly and outgoing – Labradors love meeting people and other pets.
Gentle and patient – Great with kids of all ages.
Highly trainable – They are intelligent and eager to please. Labradors are commonly used as therapy dogs.
Active and fun-loving – Ideal for outdoor-loving families.
Considerations:
- Labradors can have high-energy and may need daily exercise.
- They can be prone to weight gain, so they need to have a healthy diet.
3. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are known for their gentle, affectionate, and loyal nature.
Why They’re Great for Families:
Calm and friendly – They are known for their sweet loving personalities.
Excellent with kids – Naturally patient and protective.
Highly trainable – Perfect for families wanting an obedient dog.
Enjoy outdoor activities – Ideal for active families.
Considerations:
- Golden Retrievers have thick coats that require regular grooming, and shed quite profusely.
- They need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to avoid boredom.
4. Toy Poodles
For families who love having a lap dog and spends all its time inside the home, usually sleeping with their loved ones.
Why They’re Great for Families:
Highly intelligent – Poodles are extremely intelligent dogs. They are quick learners and excellent at obedience training.
Wool coat – Non-shedding thick curly coat makes them the perfect snuggle buddy.
Great for families – They love being with their family and are a perfect size for people who want a lightweight dog.
Considerations:
- Poodles do not do well being left outside while their family is inside.
- Due to their wool coat, poodles require regular grooming.
5. Groodle (Golden Retriever x Poodle)
Groodles are an excellent option for families wanting a friendly, hypoallergenic, and intelligent dog.
Why They’re Great for Families:
Friendly and loving – Groodles are known for their happy, affectionate nature.
Low-shedding coats – Great for allergy-prone people.
Highly intelligent – Easy to train and eager to please.
Good with children – Friendly and playful.
Considerations:
- Groodles can get quite large, so ensure you are prepared to have a large size dog.
- Early socialisation is important to ensure they grow into well-mannered adults.
6. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are energetic, intelligent, and love being part of an active family.
Why They’re Great for Families:
Loyal and affectionate – They form strong bonds with their families.
Excellent with kids – Playful and protective.
Energetic and fun-loving – Great for outdoor adventures.
Considerations:
- Australian Shepherds are working dogs and need daily exercise and mental stimulation.
- Their long coat requires regular brushing.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Owning Cavaliers myself, I can vouch for their sweet nature and love of cuddles. Cavaliers are perfect for families looking for a gentle and relaxed breed.
Why They’re Great for Families:
Calm and affectionate – They love snuggling and being close to their owners.
Great with children – Very tolerant and gentle.
Low exercise needs – Perfect for less active families or apartment living.
Considerations:
- Their coat requires regular brushing and sheds quite a lot.
- Cavaliers do not have any road sense, so you need to ensure they are leashed outside at all times.
Things to Consider Before Choosing a Breed
Activity Level – Ensure the breed you choose is one that will align with your families lifestyle.
Grooming Needs – Some breeds require regular professional grooming. Consider the ongoing costs associated with this.
Size and Space – Is your home and yard suitable for a large or small breed.
Temperament – Look for a breed that suits your family, especially if you have young children.
Why Cavoodles Make an Excellent Choice
At Dreamy Cavoodles, we’ve witnessed first hand why Cavoodles make such wonderful pets. They’re happy, intelligent, low-shedding, and love being part of the family.
They adapt well to almost all living situations. They are happy in an apartment and just as happy in a larger home. They suit the young, the old and of course families. They especially thrive in homes where they receive plenty of ongoing training.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right dog breed is about finding one that matches your family’s lifestyle with the energy and needs of the dog. We wish you all the luck in finding the perfect dog for your family.
Thinking about adding a Cavoodle to your family? Visit Dreamy Cavoodles to learn more about our puppies and how they can become a part of your happy home!