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According to the American Kennel Club, *These* Are the Greatest Dogs for Homes


1

Airedale Terrier

VIDEO: 10 Best Family dogs
American Kennel Club

airedale terrier

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With the nickname "The King of Terriers," you know this pup is an all-star. While not too lovey-dovey, the Airedale Terrier is good with children and other dogs, although this breed would thrive with an active family.

2

Bergamasco Sheepdog

VIDEO: American Kennel Club announces most popular dog breeds l GMA
Good Morning America

bergamasco sheepdog watching

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Their herding instinct is perfect for helping roundup the kids to get ready and go, and while they are generally excellent with children, it's important to supervise them if the kiddos get rowdy as they might nip at them.

3

Kishu Ken

VIDEO: Top 3 Dog Breeds for Families
American Standard Dog Training

doggy playing with ball

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Now this is a very lovey-dovey pup, according to AKC. The medium-size dog is known for being docile, open to strangers and patient with children.

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4

Segugio Italiano

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American Standard Dog Training

segugio italiano dog, the italian hound dog with a long head and ears

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5

Pumi

VIDEO: The BEST Dog Breeds for Families
American Standard Dog Training

pumi dog

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Energetic and lively, this pup will only grow to be around 20–30 pounds. They are good with children, especially those who are willing to play with them as they are puppies at heart.

6

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

VIDEO: Best dogs for kids
American Kennel Club

soft coated wheaten terrier

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If shedding's really a concern, try one of these cute pups. While no dog generates zero allergens, these silky-haired terriers grow what's referred to as a hypoallergenic coat so they may be a good fit for those who have mild fur allergies. More importantly, Wheatens are exuberant and devoted pets that love an active playtime — catch them chasing everything that moves.

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7

Bichon Frise

VIDEO: The BEST Guardian Breeds for Families
American Standard Dog Training

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Before you lump them in with other small white dog breeds, know that Bichons "operate under the assumption that there are no strangers, just friends they haven't met yet," according to the AKC. Their amiable attitude comes with another bonus: a low-shedding coat that makes this playful fluffball all the more perfect for a fun-loving household.

8

Bernese Mountain Dog

VIDEO: Best dogs for first time owners according to American Kennel Club
Joyful Past

bernese mountain dog

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9

Alaskan Malamute

VIDEO: American Kennel Club Lists Most Popular Dog Breeds
ABC News

alaskan malamute dog breed

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Alaskan Malamutes will do anything to please their pack, both human and canine. Built to work as sled dogs, these powerful pups need a leader to set a consistent training and exercise regimen. (Now's your chance to pick up skijoring.) You'll be rewarded with a loyal, friendly face and wagging feather duster of a tail.

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10

Labrador Retriever

VIDEO: Meet the American Kennel Club’s top dog l GMA
Good Morning America

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They've remained the most popular dog breed for decades for a reason. Labs love kids, adults, other pets — just about everyone. Their sweet demeanor makes them instant BFFs with whomever they meet, but don't underestimate their high energy levels. This exuberant breed needs daily exercise and they can grow up to 80 pounds.

11

Golden Retriever

VIDEO: American Kennel Club says latest recognized breed is great for families and hunters
WSFL

golden retriever dog

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12

Bulldog

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American Standard Dog Training

british bulldog sitting by path in autumn landscape

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13

Pug

VIDEO: Top 10 Calmest Dog Breeds That Don't Shed Or Smell Much
Amazing Dogs

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Just like humans, pugs love eating and sleeping. You have to keep them to a regular diet (no table scraps allowed!) and make sure they get plenty of exercise, but look no further if you want a couch companion to snuggle up and watch movies with. At just 15 pounds or so, this breed doesn't need a huge backyard, but appreciates a play session all the same.

14

Beagle

VIDEO: 20 Largest Dogs in the World
Ultimate Fact

beagle

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Cute? Check. Friendly? Check. Endlessly lovable? Check and check. Beagles absolutely thrive on companionship; long days alone won't work for these pack animals. Those pleading expressions can hide another potential challenge: These pocket-sized hounds can become daring escape artists if they come across a captivating scent.

15

Irish Setter

VIDEO: Difficult Dog Breeds - 8 Worst Dogs For First Time Owners
DoggOwner

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16

French Bulldog

VIDEO: NEVER DO THIS to Your Dog After Calling Them! American Staffordshire Terrier
American Standard Dog Training

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No backyard, no problem — city dwellers adore these quiet and low-maintenance pups. Their trademark "bat ears" and smaller stature physically distinguish them from their larger bulldog cousins. The classic Frenchie comes with an alert, playful attitude combined with easygoing adaptability.

17

Brussels Griffon

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Will Atherton Canine Training

brussels griffon dog outdoors

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One of the smallest dog breeds in the AKC, the Brussels Griffon can't handle as much roughhousing as some of the sturdier breeds on this list. But if your kids are gentle, they'll be rewarded with a loyal, intelligent pet that packs a ton of personality for its size.

18

Newfoundland

VIDEO: Top 10 Dog Breeds That Don't shed or smell | Small Dog Breeds That Don't Shed
Amazing Dogs

newfoundland dog

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On the other end of the size spectrum, the Newfoundland can tip the scales at a jaw-dropping 100-150 pounds. These lots-to-love pets excel at swimming, but they've also earned quite a rep as "nanny dogs" thanks to their patient and watchful nature. Their sweet temperament will definitely win you over, if you've got the space.

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19

Collie

VIDEO: Top 10 Best Dog Breeds for Your First Dog
MsMojo

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Collies rank among the smartest dog breeds, and if you've ever watched Lassie, then you know why. A Collie's loyalty is unparalleled and they totally adore children. Worried about all of that fur? Collies come in both "rough" and "smooth" varieties for the more grooming-adverse.

RELATED: These Are the Smartest Dog Breeds, According to Experts

20

OUR PICK: A Mutt

VIDEO: How to Choose the Perfect Dog Breed
Jaw-Dropping Facts

mutt

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True, mutts aren't an official breed per se — but that doesn't make them any less loving or adorable! Talk to your local animal rescue for help finding an adorable mixed-breed dog that would fit with your family and lifestyle. Adopting not only gives one pup a forever home, but also frees up a spot in a shelter for another one in need.

Headshot of Caroline Picard

Contributing Writer

Caroline is a writer and editor with almost a decade of experience. From 2015 to 2019, she held various editorial positions at Good Housekeeping, including as health editor, covering nutrition, fitness, wellness, and other lifestyle news. She's a graduate of the Medill School of Journalism and dreams of the day Northwestern will go back to the Rose Bowl.  

Headshot of Lizz Schumer

Senior Editor

Lizz (she/her) is a senior editor at Good Housekeeping, where she runs the GH Book Club, edits essays and long-form features and writes about pets, books and lifestyle topics. A journalist for almost two decades, she is the author of Biography of a Body and Buffalo Steel. She also teaches journalism as an adjunct professor at New York University's School of Professional Studies and creative nonfiction at the Muse Writing Center, and coaches with the New York Writing Room. 

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