If you have kids, they’ve probably been begging you for a canine companion since they could talk. Before you run to your local shelter or breeder to pick out your new furry family member, there are a few things you need to think about. While all dogs can make wonderful family pets with the right socialization and training, there are some dog breeds that get along with kids more easily. When choosing a dog, always do your research. Pick a dog that matches the energy and lifestyle of your family. If your kids are always running around, you’ll need a dog that can keep up with them. On the other hand, if your kids tend to play video games or read a lot, you’ll want a calmer, less energetic dog. In either case, here is our list of the top ten most kid-friendly dog breeds.
10. Bulldog
Starting off our list is a sturdy, albeit a little lazy, dog that’s perfect for kids who like to roughhouse but who get tired quickly. Bulldogs are extremely gentle and patient with children and usually only need a daily walk to keep them happy.
9. Boxer
Boxers are high-energy, medium-sized dogs that are great with children. While they were originally bred for dogfighting, this breed is now one of the most family-friendly ones available. Boxers can keep up with even the most energetic of children, making them perfect for kids who love to run around.
8. Bull Terrier
Probably the most unique-looking dog on this list, the Bull Terrier is a medium-sized dog with an egg-shaped head. They make excellent and loving companions and adore playing with children.
7. Irish Setter
For older, active children, the Irish Setter is a wonderful choice. This dog needs a lot of physical and mental exercise every day. Irish Setters make fantastic bird dogs if your family likes to hunt. Alternatively, you can set up an obstacle course in your backyard to keep both your dog and your kids exercised and happy.
6. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is probably the biggest dog on this list, but also one of the sweetest. This gentle giant makes a wonderful “nanny” for children, much like Nana the Newfoundland from Peter Pan did. These dogs are built strong so they can handle rough housing and they’re extremely patient with children.
5. Beagle
If you’re looking for a smaller, more active, and all-around happy dog, the beagle could be the perfect dog for you. Beagles are curious canines who love to follow their noses, making scent-based games fun for the whole family. Have your kids hide a dog treat in the backyard and watch your Beagle find it. It’s a great way to teach your kids how to train your dog.
4. Labradoodle
A Labradoodle is a mix between a Labrador and a Poodle. These dogs were originally bred to be hypoallergenic guide dogs, but have quickly become popular pets for families with children of all ages. The Labradoodle is gentle, kind, and loyal, making it a wonderful family dog.
3. Brittany
Another dog that was bred for hunting, the Brittany is an extremely active and energetic breed that is perfect for equally active and energetic families. While these dogs are easy to train and love children, they certainly need a lot of daily exercise to keep them from going stir-crazy.
2. Labrador Retriever
Considered the most popular dog breed in America, the Labrador Retriever is one of the most family-friendly dogs around. Loyal, intelligent, loving, and patient, the Labrador Retriever is an excellent dog for almost any family.
1. Golden Retriever
Perhaps the second most popular dog breed in America, the Golden Retriever has a similar disposition to the Labrador. Golden Retrievers are excellent athletes and do well in agility competitions. They’re extremely intelligent as well and are often the winners of competitive obedience competitions. If you’re looking to compete with a family-friendly dog, the Golden Retriever may be the dog for you.
Bonus: Mutt
As mentioned before, every dog breed has the capability to be a wonderful family pet with the proper training, exercise, and socialization. If you want a truly unique dog or want aspects of two or more different breeds, why not rescue a mixed breed from your local shelter? While Pitbull mixes are often labeled vicious, most purebred Pitbulls and Pitbull mixes are actually extremely loving and gentle dogs who love children. They were actually once considered to be the best nanny-type breed of dog, up there with the Newfoundland. On the other hand, there are plenty of other mixed breed dogs at your local shelter who are in need of loving homes and who would make wonderful family pets.
