Dogs and kids can make an amazing team! Dogs help get kids moving and enjoying the outdoors, while also teaching valuable social skills for both the child and the dog. When considering adding a dog to your family, parents often worry about which breed is best, as some dogs may not handle kids as well as others.
To make sure you find the perfect dog for your family, we’ve put together this guide on the best dog breeds for families. Keep reading for helpful tips and to find out which breeds are most likely to thrive in a family-friendly home.
What Characteristics Makes a Good Family Dog?
When choosing a dog for your family, it’s less about the breed and more about the dog’s individual personality. If you want a dog that’ll be a great companion for both your child and your family, here are a few key things to look for:
- A calm temperament: Your dog should be calm and patient enough to handle the excitement of kids. Over time, they’ll become a loyal friend for your child.
- The right size: Small dogs can be more excitable and fragile, and kids aren’t always gentle. Large dogs tend to be calmer, but they might accidentally knock over smaller children during play.
- Energy levels: Choose a dog whose energy matches your family’s lifestyle. A high-energy dog needs regular walks and playtime, while a low-energy dog might get frustrated if there’s too much excitement around.
It’s not just about picking the right dog breed for kids, but also teaching your children how to be kind to dogs. This will help create a happy, peaceful home for everyone.
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Best Dog Breeds for Families
Now that you know what traits make a great family pet, let’s dive into some dog breeds that are known for having these qualities. Keep in mind, just because these breeds are usually well-behaved around kids doesn’t mean every single dog will be the same. Each dog has its own personality!
- Labrador
Labradors are often called one of the best family dogs. They’re known for being great with kids and other pets. These dogs are friendly, playful, and affectionate. They love being with their family and have tons of energy, making them perfect for active families. Just keep in mind that young labs can be a bit bouncy, so if you have small children, you might want to consider adopting an older lab who’s a bit calmer. - Poodle
Poodles are sometimes overlooked because of their posh image, but they’re far from fancy. Originally working dogs, they’re super smart, energetic, and great with kids. They’re also one of the best breeds for families with allergies since they shed very little and are considered hypoallergenic. - Bernese Mountain Dog
Known as “gentle giants,” Bernese Mountain Dogs have a loving and patient nature. When well-socialized, they’re great with kids and make perfect companions for active families who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or camping. However, because they’re large dogs, they might not be the best choice for families with very young children who could be knocked over during play. - Beagle
Beagles are not only friendly, but also energetic and playful. They love being around people, especially kids, and are always up for a little mischief. Despite their lively nature, they’re usually very patient with children and can be a great addition to a family. - Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are just as popular as Labradors when it comes to family dogs. With their friendly, kind nature and loads of energy, they love playing with kids and are known to be incredibly patient. They’re often seen following children around, waiting for their next cuddle or game. - Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are affectionate, easy-going dogs that get along well with children and other pets. They love being the center of attention and are always ready to play. Plus, they’re known for being very laid-back and forgiving with kids, making them great for families. - Staffordshire Bull Terrier
This might surprise you, but Staffordshire Bull Terriers are actually one of the best dogs for kids! They’re often called “nanny dogs” because of their sweet nature. They love people and are very playful with their family. Sadly, the breed has a negative stereotype, but if you’re looking for one of these wonderful dogs, check rescue centers—they’re often in need of loving homes.
Each of these breeds has its own special qualities that make them great for families, so you’ll want to find the one that fits best with your lifestyle and home!
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The Final Word on the Best Dog Breeds for Families
The breeds mentioned above generally have the traits that make them great for family life, but you’ll need to do your part too. First, always get a dog from a reputable breeder or consider adopting from a rescue center. After that, socializing and training your dog will go a long way in making sure you have a well-behaved family companion.
If you’re wondering how to socialize your dog properly, The Kennel Club suggests using The Puppy Plan. It’s a step-by-step guide designed to prevent behavior issues and reduce the number of dogs that end up in rescue centers each year.
And remember, it’s not just your dog that needs training—your kids do too! It’s important to teach them how to be kind and respectful toward the dog and to understand the signs of dog behavior. That way, they’ll know when your pup needs some space.
