Best Dog Breeds for Families with Kids
Best Dog Breeds for Families with Kids
If you have small children, it can be difficult to decide on the right dog breed for your family. We love our pups, and we love our kids, but sometimes, they don’t love each other. The good news is that there are dog breeds out there that make ideal playmates for your little ones.
We’ve touched on a few breeds in the past that are great for homes with kids, but for this week’s blog, we thought we’d do a special post for all the moms and dads or future parents who are looking for the right dog for their kids.
Growing up with a good dog is a wonderful experience, so we want all your little ones to have the best playmate and companion!
- Golden Retriever
It’s probably no surprise that the Golden Retriever is one of the best dog breeds for kids because with their angelic demeanor and friendly personality, they are a bit child-like themselves.
Golden Retrievers are among the most popular dog breeds in the United States. They are laid-back but also energetic when it’s playtime. This breed will be more than happy to romp around in the yard with the kids and play dress-up at a tea party.
These are truly one of the best family dogs whether you have older or younger children, and they also adjust well to having a new baby in the home.
- Newfoundland
Don’t let their large size fool you—these dogs are huge sweethearts. Newfoundlands are massive and can that can weight up to 150lbs, but they are mellow, good-tempered dogs that rather enjoy playing the nanny around little ones.
Patient and clam, these dogs don’t need much exercise, but they’ll enjoy being outside with the kids and going on walks.
If you’re looking for a big teddy-bear dog for your kids to love on—Newfoundlands are the perfect breed.
- Pug
Pugs were bred to be lap dogs. They love curling up next to you or playing a game of fetch in the yard. If you want a breed that will sit next to your kids while they watch cartoons, and one that will bounce around in the yard for a little while, a Pug might be your ideal breed.
While they are small dogs, they are not likely to snap like many smaller breeds. As long as they are socialized and you teach your kids to still respect your Pug’s space, they will make great additions to your family.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Another small to mid-size breed that’s perfect for cuddles is the King Charles Spaniel. This breed is affectionate and will enjoy being a part of all your kids’ activities. They were bred as companion dogs, so they’ll be happy to accompany your kids outside for playtime or stay indoors curled up next to them on the couch.
- Collie
Thanks to the beloved TV show, Lassie, Collies have been a popular choice for family dogs for many years. This breed is loving, loyal, athletic, and extremely intelligent. They are naturally good with children and will enjoy being outdoors with them, going on adventures and learning new tricks.
Collies are patient and protective and make wonderful additions to homes with kids of all ages.
- Boxer
If you want an athletic breed that will make you laugh, Boxers are the best. They are large, muscular, and can often look intimidating, but those big brown eyes don’t lie—they are sweethearts. Boxers are the perfect outdoor companion and always want to be wherever the action is.
Often a little dopy, but still incredibly smart, Boxers are the perfect breed for families who want a playful, trainable dog. They will watch out for the kids and provide hours of fun in the yard.
- Beagle
Beagles are happy-go-lucky, down-to-earth hound dogs that are beloved favorites of many families. These spunky little dogs are quick and intelligent, and they’re always ready for playtime outside.
Beagles are generally a patient breed, but they might be more prone to nip if kids get too rough or invade their personal space a lot. Overall, Beagles are well-tempered, funny, and sweet dogs that love companionship.
Kids and Pups Make the Best of Friends
There’s really nothing like growing up with a good dog, and we want for every child to experience the joy that comes with having a loyal, furry friend.
It’s important to note that while the breeds we’ve mentioned above are some of the best breeds for families with small kids, every child needs to know how to respect a dog and its space. When kids learn how to interact with your dog, whether during play or during its rest time, you’ll have a happy pup that’s devoted and patient with your little ones.
We hope that these suggestions have given you some inspiration for what kind of breed is best for your family!
- Kirsten Starling