These are some of the most popular breeds of dogs for families in Northern Ireland

Whether you’re looking for a breed that’s great with children, an athletic outdoor type ready to scale mountains or a trusty lapdog, here are some of the best dog breeds for families in the UK, according to Dogtime.

By Gemma Murray

Published 5th Dec 2023, 16:32 BST

Updated 11th Dec 2023, 13:25 BST

These beautiful dogs are featured in no particular order of popularity.

Also read: These adorable four-legged friends are now available to be rehomed from the Dogs Trust in Ballymena - look into the eyes of these unwanted dogs and see if you could love them over Christmas?

The Golden Retriever is also slow to mature and retains the silly, playful personality of a puppy until three to four years of age, which can be delightful.

But many keep their puppyish traits into old age.

1.

The Golden Retriever is also slow to mature and retains the silly, playful personality of a puppy until three to four years of age, which can be delightful. But many keep their puppyish traits into old age. Photo: Chris Amaral

The Golden Retriever is widely recognised as one of the best family dogs due to their friendly nature, gentle temperament, and exceptional patience.

Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities.

2. Golden retriever

The Golden Retriever is widely recognised as one of the best family dogs due to their friendly nature, gentle temperament, and exceptional patience. Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. Photo: © Royalty-Free/CORBIS

Golden Retriever's are typically very sociable and get along well with people of all ages, including children.

Golden Retrievers often have a natural affinity for children and are known for their patience and tolerance, making them an excellent choice for families with young kids.

3.

Golden Retriever's are typically very sociable and get along well with people of all ages, including children. Golden Retrievers often have a natural affinity for children and are known for their patience and tolerance, making them an excellent choice for families with young kids. Photo: RyanJLane

Cocker Spaniel's are a beloved and popular breed.

Their large, expressive eyes exude intelligence and affection, while their long, feathered ears add to their charming appeal.

4. Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniel's are a beloved and popular breed. Their large, expressive eyes exude intelligence and affection, while their long, feathered ears add to their charming appeal. Photo: Michael Cousins

Northern Ireland Dogs Trust Ballymena