Dog Breed FAQ

Want to learn more about the breed of dog best for you? Perhaps you already have a dog and want to learn more about their breed. We have identified some of the most frequently asked dog breed questions and have had our experts weigh in!

What is the number 1 dog breed?

According to the AKC, the # 1 dog breed in America is the Labrador Retriever. This comes as no surprise, given how much we adore the breed. Their versatility makes them great candidates for a variety of activities. If you are outdoorsy and enjoy hiking, hunting, boating, or swimming, the Labrador Retriever makes a great companion. If you enjoy exercising, jogging, or taking long walks, your Labrador Retriever will be by your side. If life in the city is your jam, your Labrador Retriever will undoubtedly enjoy the dog park and coffee outings and grab lots of attention at a local happy hour. Have a family? A Labrador Retriever is a great fit for kids of all ages and will enjoy nearly any family activity they can participate in. The Labrador Retriever makes a great companion no matter what the day brings.

What are the best breeds for kids?

There are so many excellent breeds for kids! If families are interested in a small dog, my top recommendation is King Charles Cavalier. Be ready to vacuum, though, because that sweet pup can create a lot of fur clean-up! Next in line for small dogs are Bichon Frise or Havanese—these are both great for those interested in a more hypoallergenic breed. Beagles can also make great dogs for kids. You might consider a French Bulldog if your kids enjoy a more physical dog. For both Beagles and French Bulldogs, it is essential to do a lot of body parts handling and preventative resource guarding exercises. If you’re interested in a larger dog, there is nothing better than an English Labrador. Their radiant personality, sturdiness, and low energy level (much different than the American Labrador) make them my number 1 top breed pick for kids. If you’re interested in kicking things up a notch in energy and excitement, the Golden Retriever is also an excellent choice. Again, get your vacuum ready for the English Labrador and Golden Retriever. Lastly, the German Shorthaired Pointer makes a great companion for kids if you’re incredibly outdoorsy and have the energy to burn yourself. If you are interested in a giant breed that is a bit more boisterous, consider the Bernese Mountain Dog.

What is the best service dog?

The best breed for service dogs is the English Labrador Retriever. Their personality and emotional sturdiness make them naturally comfortable in various environments. Their physical stature makes the English Labrador suitable for supporting their person fully participating in daily life. For these reasons, the English Labrador Retriever is the preferred breed for service.

Best breeds for emotional support dogs?

The best breeds for emotional support vary based on the individual’s need for support. Sometimes, a dog supports their owner by sitting on their lap. In these cases, a Papillon or Toy Poodle is hard to beat. One might consider a Bichon Frise or King Charles Cavalier for a slightly larger breed. If an owner needs support nearby but not on their lap, view an English Labrador Retriever. If those breeds do not appeal to you, consider a properly socialized–dog and human friendly– German Shepherd, American Staffordshire Terrier, or American Pit Bull Terrier. These breeds love their owner!

What is the best dog for the elderly?

The best dog for the elderly largely depends on the person their lifestyle! If they are an active older adult, they should first consider if falling is a risk. If falling is a risk, smaller but energetic breeds might be a great option. Consider a Toy Poodle, Maltese, Havanese, or a Whippet. If falling is less of a risk and the person is very active, one might consider a Bichon, King Charles Cavalier, or a Border Collie for very active older adults. For an older adult who is less active, one might consider a Havanese or Shih Tzu. Lastly, Toy Poodles and Papillons make excellent travel companions for those older adults who enjoy hopping on an airplane!

Best small dogs for kids that don’t shed?

Several small breeds do not shed. Bichon Frise, Havanese, and Lhasa Apso are best for kids. These breeds all have a spunk that kids enjoy while being hypoallergenic for those that cannot handle the shedding types.

Best hypoallergenic dog for a busy family?

A variety of hypoallergenic breeds make a great addition to a busy family. For those families looking for a medium to large-sized breed, consider the Standard Poodle, or any doodle breeds—Bernadoodle, Goldendoodle, or Labradoodles. It’s important to note that all these breeds require a fair amount of exercise! For those families looking for smaller, hypoallergenic breeds, consider the Havanese or Bichon Frise. While these smaller breeds require some exercise, they bring the spunk without the extra miles necessary to wear them out!

Best family dogs?

The ultimate family dog is the English Labrador Retriever! Their personality never meets a stranger, and their sturdiness makes them forgive if kids get a bit excitable or play too rough. The English Labrador Retriever is ready to go on nearly any family outing but does not require the level of exercise some of their counterparts do. They are an excellent choice for those families who might not have as much time to dedicate to training as they do not generally engage in severe problem behaviors. For these reasons, the English Labrador Retriever makes the best family dog! If you and your family are interested in a smaller breed, King Charles Cavalier, Bichon, or a well-socialized French Bulldog are also at the top of the list. Consider the Golden Retriever, German Shorthaired Pointer, or Boxer for breeds that require more exercise but still make excellent family dogs.