Wagging Tails & Happy Wails: 3 Atypical Dog Breeds for Every Family Out There

Is there any joy that even remotely comes close to that of returning home to a loyal furry companion? Perhaps this is the reason why so many American households choose to have a dog as their pet. 

According to Statista, canines form a significant part of nearly 65.1 million households across the US. Dogs are the most popular choice of pets and some families live with more than one of these adorable furballs. Exciting as it may be, we know how major a decision it is to buy or adopt a pet. 

If your family also wishes to join the aforementioned coveted statistic, there are many considerations to make. It all starts with the dog’s breed, which will determine its grooming, nutritional, and social needs. 

This article will discuss three atypical dog breeds that are extremely family and kid-friendly. Besides the renowned Golden Retriever and Pug, you’d be surprised to know that your options are so much more vast than you’d believed.  

Newfoundland

This breed is characterized by large webbed feet, strong resilience, and powerful hindquarters. As you may have guessed, these fur babies get their name from the Newfoundland of North East Canada. They were originally used as working dogs for fishermen. 

Do not let their well-built frame deceive you. Newfoundlands have a gentle disposition and they make excellent family pets. If your kids are into swimming and other water activities, count on your Newfoundland to accompany them anytime and all the time. 

Though gentle to their owners, Newfoundlands are extremely protective. They will guard your children closely at all times. Just a word of caution - do not fall for the ‘nanny dog’ narrative circulating the internet. 

Newfoundlands are often considered to be nanny-like due to their mild temperaments and protective instincts. Just remember that a nanny is not created in a day. Do not be surprised if your ‘Newfie’ causes a mess in the house, barks at your children, or knocks them down. With proper training, they will emerge as the dream family dog.  

Australian Labradoodle

These fur babies are not at all rare but they’re undoubtedly not the first to come to mind. A diversely guarded mixed breed, this dog is known for its unique characteristics. It has loads of soft fur all over its body and is still a hypoallergenic breed. 

This means you do not have to worry about excessive shedding across the house. As for their temperament, Australian Labradoodles are intelligent, loyal, and easy to train. They are known to be social and love being around their human companions, including little children. 

One of the best qualities of this dog breed is that it is not prone to aggression. On the contrary, these canines will anticipate their owners’ needs constantly to show exceptional devotion and love. 

Their rare charms make them so desired that it is difficult to get them for free. You can always find Australian Labradoodle puppies for sale, available in a variety of colors. These include caramel. chocolate, black, cream, and coffee. 

According to GXL Labradoodles, puppies can be ready to live with their new and permanent owners after eight weeks of life. Until then, they are kept close to the mother for nutritional and disciplinary reasons. Just ensure you do a thorough background check of the seller for an authentic Australian breed.  

Irish Setter 

If your family is full of energetic folks brimming with life, you should be able to keep up with the high-spirited Irish Setter. As per the American Kennel Club, these dogs have an elegant build and are regal to look at. 

The most common color you will come across is the mahogany or chestnut red coat. Just like their fiery coats, these fur babies are endearing sports dogs. They love to run about, practice their rear-drive skills, and mingle with other swift dogs. 

Considered to be among the most beautiful dog breeds, an Irish Setter can be the run-and-play companion that your children seek. Just keep in mind that this breed is quite stubborn and loves to have its own way. This means your pup, if an Irish Setter, will require patient training. 

Moreover, you are easily looking at at least two hours of exercise a day. So, keep that schedule free, and finally, take care of separation anxiety. Irish Setters love to be in the company of their human friends and may experience anxiety when separated. The signs include destructive behaviors like chewing or scratching objects, salivating, frequent urination or defecation, and constant howling or barking.  

With the list above, we cannot recommend you an ideal best. This is because each dog breed is unique and their suitability will largely depend on your family and its lifestyle. For instance - if athletic ability is what excited you to buy a dog, go for Irish Setters. 

If unflinching loyalty coupled with health advantages are your top priorities, the Australian Labradoodle may be the best choice. Ultimately, if child surveillance and water rescue top the list, your ideal pick is the Newfie.