18 Dogs That Thrive in Busy Households

Written By Jill Taylor

Your home might be busy for many reasons. Perhaps you have a lot of energetic children, or you and your partner might love exercising together, or people might be constantly in and out the front door. We’re taking a look at 18 dog breeds that will match your home’s busy flow perfectly.

Labrador Retrievers

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Not only are Labradors friendly, outgoing dogs who are remarkably easy to groom but they’re also well-suited to active families. According to PDSA, “Labradors make perfect family pets” and are “full of energy.” If you can keep up with them, then they can keep up with you!

Boxers

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If you’ve ever interacted with a Boxer, then you’ll know firsthand how boisterous they can be. They have tons of energy and can be great watchdogs or companions for active families. Boxers also love going on adventures, such as hiking or camping with their owners.

Beagles

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Beagles are small dogs who are always friendly and curious. Families with children will love this dog breed, as they can easily keep up with your kids and love to explore their homes. They also have enough stamina to participate in any family outings that you take them on.

Golden Retrievers

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Although energy levels are important when choosing a dog for a busy household, you should also think about the dog breed’s overall temperament. Golden Retrievers are patient and gentle, meaning that they get along well with kids. They’re also highly intelligent and can adapt to various day-to-day routines.

Border Collies

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Be careful that you’re not taking on more than you can handle with a Border Collie. They need lots of physical and mental stimulation throughout the day – Pet Health Network mentions how they “require an intense amount of exercise” and they need “a job to perform” – so they will fit perfectly into active families.

Poodles

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Intelligent and easy to train, Poodles thrive in busy environments. You can also find multiple sizes of Poodle to fit your family, from the tiny Toy Poodle to the large Standard Poodle. Their coats can be difficult to groom, but they’re also considered hypoallergenic, which makes them excellent for those who are allergic to dog hairs.

Cocker Spaniels

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Cocker Spaniels might not be as energetic as Boxers or Border Collies, but they still have a moderate energy level. They’ll enjoy active mornings and afternoons just as much as calmer evenings, and they’re always eager to please. Training a Cocker Spaniel is a lovely and rewarding experience.

French Bulldogs

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Sometimes, busy households can mean that you don’t have as much time to devote to your dog’s exercise. For the French Bulldog, this isn’t a problem, as this breed’s laid-back attitude and minimal exercise requirements make them perfect for busy homes where you really don’t have enough time to spare.

Australian Shepherds

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On the other hand, if you need a dog who can actually help out around the house, the Australian Shepherd might be for you. They’re intelligent, versatile, and can be trained for many different household activities like fetching items and closing doors. Above all, they love being involved in busy family lives.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

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The Spruce Pets notes that a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel “thrives in a family or multi-dog household” and has “flexible energy levels for walks of all types.” Their sweet and affectionate natures will fit right in with large households and they can easily adapt to different levels of activity.

Shetland Sheepdogs

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Similar to Border Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs need regular interaction and mental challenges to thrive. They’re protective and affectionate, especially towards children, and their sharp minds can pick up commands and tricks easily. An active family would be perfect for a Shetland Sheepdog.

Dalmatians

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As well as their spots, Dalmations are well-known for their playfulness and intelligence. They have enough stamina to go on long walks or runs with their owners, and they can be amazing watchdogs too. Their high energy levels mean they could feel right at home in a busy household.

Boston Terriers

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These tiny dogs are absolutely full of personality and are incredibly adaptable too. They won’t be bothered by any of the chaos of a busy home, and their moderate exercise requirement means they’re perfectly happy with daily walks and playtime in the backyard.

Bernese Mountain Dogs

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For families who love being outdoors and hiking, a Bernese Mountain Dog might be your canine match made in heaven. These dogs are large but calm and gentle, and they love being outside. They especially thrive in cooler climates and they’re very loving and good-natured.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers

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This unfortunately misunderstood dog breed is actually quite friendly and gentle, especially with children. Blue Cross states that they have a “sheer love of spending time with people” and “simply love being part of the family.” They enjoy boisterous playtimes and can easily handle busy family environments.

Bichons Frises

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Like Poodles, Bichons Frises also have hypoallergenic coats which means they’re suitable pets for people with dog hair allergies. But they’re also energetic and playful and can bring their cheerful attitudes into busy households. These little dogs are low-maintenance but wonderful additions to any family.

Irish Setters

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Irish Setters are beautiful dogs with absolutely gorgeous red fur, and they’re quite friendly too. They’re sociable and will fit in well with large families, but they do need a lot of exercise – about two hours a day. Active and busy households may find the Irish Setter to be their ideal family pet.

Miniature Schnauzers

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Lastly, let’s cover an active, alert dog that could become an amazing watchdog for your busy home. Miniature Schnauzers are intelligent and can adapt to a new household easily. Their distinctive coat does need regular grooming, but they’re still great dogs for busy families and will loyally watch over you.

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