Wednesday 24 January 2018

The top three pet choices for modern families

Pets dogs Mastiff
ITV recently had a poll to discover which breeds of dogs we Britons prefer. The top 10 as voted for by the British public were:
  1. Labrador
  2. Mixed breeds
  3. Jack Russell
  4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
  5. Border Collie
  6. Cocker Spaniel
  7. Cockapoo
  8. German Shepherd
  9. Springer Spaniel
  10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
So, they’re popular. But which are the best breeds around the house?

This handy online breed selector will help you choose a breed of dog based on a series of choices that best match your lifestyle.

Most busy families tend to be out of the house for much of the day. In this case it’s best to look for a breed that will be OK to be left on its own for lengthy periods of time throughout the day.

There aren’t many – most dogs don’t like being on their own for extended periods of time. However, a quick look at the Pets 4 Homes list brings up some interesting choices:

  • Basset Hound
  • Bedlington Terrier
  • Bullmastiff
  • Chow Chow
  • English Bulldog
  • Schnauzer – miniature and giant
  • Lhasa Apso
  • Mastiff
  • Newfoundland
  • Norwich Terrier
  • Otterhound

Of course, this all depends on space. If you have plenty of room and you’re near open space our favourite is the Mastiff. It’s a breed that is friendly and good with kids. But its size and bark will make intruders think twice. If space is at a premium, then perhaps the Lhasa Apso would be a better option.

According to most online polls though, fish and cats both outstrip dogs in the pet popularity stakes.

Neither of these pet choices will interfere with busy lifestyles. Depending on the breed you choose they are relatively easy to care for. And they can tolerate being on their own while your family is out at work and school.

Visit http://www.petsathome.com/shop/en/pets/pet-talk/pet-care-fish# for advice on keeping freshwater fish and http://www.petsathome.com/shop/en/pets/cat-care-advice/cat-health-centre for keeping tabs on your cats’ health.

We still think a Mastiff is a great pet choice, especially if home security is a concern. What's your favourite pet?