Dog trainer suggests three ‘rare’ breeds that are great for families

With so many different breeds to choose from, it can be hard to know which one is best for your family – so here are three ‘rare’ breeds to consider according to an expert.

If you’re aiming to distinguish yourself as a dog owner, there are numerous breeds that can help you break away from the everyday crowd. The world is a land of canine enthusiasts; however, with the vast array of options available, choosing the ideal dog for your lifestyle can seem daunting.

It’s key to consider which types of dogs will integrate smoothly into your life, keeping in mind factors like living space, time, and finances before introducing a new furry family member. Many households opt for a “family dog” – one that’s good with children and boasts a gentle disposition – making Labradors and Golden Retrievers hugely popular.

But if you’re craving something a bit more distinctive, dog expert Will Atherton has called attention to some “rare” breeds you may not know yet could be fantastic additions to the family. It’s crucial to remember that regardless of how suitable a dog is deemed for families, all require proper training, and not all breeds are appropriate for first-time owners. It’s vital to do thorough research and grasp what you’re signing up for before making that commitment.

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Is a Leonberger the one?

For the prepared and ready to offer a caring home, here are three breeds recommended by Atherton on his TikTok for those seeking to diversify, starting with the Leonberger.

Will commended the Leonberger as an “incredibly gentle, placid, relaxed dog” noting that it could “fit really well” in the right household.

However, he emphasized that potential owners should have the “skill and experience to handle a larger breed.” Will detailed the importance of training that ensures an “excellent level of leadership, manners, and socialization” for Leonbergers.

Standing tall at 25-32 inches and weighing as much as 170 pounds, Leonbergers are considered a giant breed. Their considerable size contributes to a shorter lifespan—typically around seven years—which is a factor to consider if you’re seeking a long-term pet companion for your kids.

PetMD notes that while Leonbergers can be “gentle giants” this depends on them being “appropriately socialized and trained.” They are recognized for their devotion to family and their gentle disposition with children.

Nonetheless, it’s crucial to thoroughly research the breed’s requirements and traits before deciding to take one home.

Komondor could be for you

As for the Komondor, Will described it as a “genuinely nice, sweet dog”.

Despite its pleasant temperament, he pointed out that the breed is “incredibly rare” – he has only come across one Komondor in his entire career as a dog trainer.

Those thinking about adding a Komondor to their household must be ready to meet their grooming demands. The Kennel Club recommends that these dogs need grooming more than once a week to keep their distinctive coats in good condition.

The Kennel Club advises that prospective Komondor owners should have plenty of living space and a large garden to satisfy their pet’s needs. Known for being better suited to country rather than city living, Komondors are described as “excellent guards” who are “faithful and devoted” yet may be “wary of strangers” and “strongly territorial”.

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This suggests that they might not mesh well with households with other pets and will need comprehensive training.

Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers

Will shared his affection for Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers, calling them the “best family pets.” For those looking for a similar but more unique breed, he recommended considering the Flat-Coated Retriever.

Will noted that this breed shares “a lot of the benefits” of its Retriever cousins but adds “a little bit of the rarity that not many people have.”

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Hill’s Pet Nutrition acknowledges the Flat-Coated Retriever as a “wonderful family dog” known for being “loving toward children” and highly sociable. They caution, however, that since the breed matures slowly, often exhibiting puppy-like behaviors until three years old or more, it may not be the best fit for homes that lack the energy or commitment to provide proper training.

When mulling over which canine companion to bring into your life, deep dives into research are indispensable. It’s key to find a breed that aligns with your lifestyle – ensuring both you and your potential pooch are well-matched.

Regardless of the breed, all dogs require effective training, especially since many are not ideal for first-time dog owners. You might also want to consider the option of adopting a dog instead of purchasing one.