In need of a vet finder for questions on the best dog breed for your family? Give East Valley Animal Hospital a call and we’ll be happy to help.

When it comes to picking out the best dog breed, there are many things to consider. One of the most important is your lifestyle and the time you have available to care for a pet. For example, if you and your family are rarely home or if you’re single and travel for a living, you may want to wait on getting your new best friend.

As any vet finder will attest, all pets needs to have the love, attention, exercise and companionship that is needed to live a full and happy life. Matching your lifestyle to that of a potential pet is a large part of finding a pet’s forever home.

Below, we’ve outlined just a few of the most common dog breeds for families. This list, of course, is not exhaustive as there are many popular and lovable breeds and mixed breeds to choose from.

Golden Retriever:  Is there anything cuter than a Golden Retriever puppy or more loving and loyal than an adult Golden? Many families choose puppy and adult Golden Retrievers because of their friendly demeanor and devotion. Golden Retrievers are extremely intelligent and will gladly go for a long walk as long as they are right by your side. It is important to note that Goldens, like all dogs, are predisposed to certain genetic conditions. For Goldens, these include allergies, hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, and lymphoma.

Labrador Retriever: Like Golden Retrievers, Labs are amazing family pets. They love to exercise and play. As well, they are great hunting dogs and swimmers, so they make great companions for those who love outdoor sporting activities. Labradors are susceptible to allergies, ear infections, hip dysplasia, and laryngeal paralysis.

Beagle: With short, easy-to-care-for coats and endless energy, Beagles are a great addition to an active family. This charming little dog will bring fun and entertainment to your home. Beagles do love to bark and are sometimes prone to ear infections, diabetes, and cataracts.

Collie: This graceful breed is a devoted companion that is part of the herding group of dogs. Don’t be surprised if your Collie herds children, elderly and even other pets. It’s in their genetic nature. With a full coat of fur, Collies need to be brushed once a week. They are also potentially prone to drug reactions, collie eye anomaly, and deafness.

Chihuahua: Popular here in Arizona, Chihuahuas make for fun companions. They are spunky and playful and come in both long-coat and smooth-coat varieties. Chihuahua owners adore them for their tiny size and soulful eyes. They may be susceptible to aggression, heart murmurs (valvular disease), patellar luxations, and cryptorchidism.

Please note that we have mentioned the genetic predispositions because it is important to understand that dogs, just like people, can have medical issues. All breeds have genetic predispositions so it’s not just these ones. That is why caring properly for your dogs, including regular veterinary visits, is essential to keeping your dog healthy and happy. Welcoming a dog into your family is a responsibility as much as it is a joy.

Whether you’re looking for your new family member or you’ve recently added one and looking to a vet finder for help, contact us at East Valley Animal Hospital. Our caring and compassionate team will tell you all about the medical needs of your new pet and partner with you to ensure your pet lives a long and healthy life.