'I'm a dog trainer and 5 breeds are best for families - not Labs or golden retrievers'

A professional dog trainer has shared the five breeds he believes to be the "best" for families but stressed golden retrievers and Labradors wouldn't be making the cut. These two dog breeds are among the most popular pet choices thanks to their loyal, affectionate and gentle natures.

Casey Ray, a content creator and "dog behaviour expert", has shared his top recommendations for families, based on his decades of experience working with dogs - but was keen to point out he wouldn't be including the two beloved breeds.

This is because, despite them being "fantastic" for families, "great with kids" and regularly featuring in "best breed" lists, he was keen to highlight other breeds instead.

Pro Casey said it was practically a given that Labs and golden retrievers would continue to be highly recommended by experts and novices alike.

He added: "Everyone knows those are great dogs. That's why they're always one and two in the AKC rankings."

Regardless of the breed, choosing to welcome a dog into your home is a major decision and commitment, so it's important to weigh up the pros and cons, as well as your lifestyle, before committing to the decision.

5. Boxer

Kicking things off, Casey started his list with the Boxer, an intelligent, playful, loyal and energetic breed.

Despite its large size, Casey branded the boxer "fantastic" and "great with children".

He explained: "You can pretty much do anything you want with them. You know, some of them are more lower energy, some [are] higher energy."

He said it was important to give them "basic training and basic structure" to get the best out of them.

4. Shih Tzu

In fourth place, Casey recommended the small, affectionate and outgoing Shih Tzu. The expert said: "Fantastic breed. Again, minimal training, smaller. A lot of people can travel with these dogs. They're very easy."

He explained the Shih Tzu is a companion breed; dogs which are renowned for their desire to provide companionship and affection to their owners as opposed to working dogs.

3. Corgi

In third place, Casey put the corgi. These small, intelligent and loyal dogs do require training, exercise and proper socialisation but are known as good family dogs.

Casey said: "Fantastic dogs. They come from the [herding] group... there's a lot of intelligence in there.

"So, as long as you do basic training, take this intelligence and do something with it, they thrive in family situations. I love this breed."

2. Poodle

The expert is a big fan of poodles. They're widely accepted as one of the most intelligent dog breeds, with a distinctive appearance thanks to their tight, non-shedding curls.

Poodles come in a range of sizes and are popular thanks to their gentle nature and ability to be trained well.

Casey said: "I love these guys. Non-shedding. You can do anything you want with them." He went on to praise their adaptability and obedience levels and continued: "You can do all kinds of things or you can make them more into a companion dog."

The expert added: "But a poodle - toy, mini, or standard - are phenomenal dogs for families. That's why they're so popular."

1. Cavalier King Charles spaniel

Casey put the Cavalier King Charles spaniel in first place, as he has done in previous videos.

These small dogs are known and loved for their gentle, sweet nature and their strong desire to please their owners.

Casey said it was the breed he'd most recommended to people because of how easy and friendly they are. He added: "All they want to do is love on you, be around you. They're going to hang out with the kids."

Dogs are a serious responsibility and lifestyle change. Always do your research before deciding to get a dog and remember, not all breeds are suitable for first time owners and training is usually essential.

Remember, never leave children unattended when with a dog.