Every kid dreams of having a puppy, and as parents, it’s easy to worry about the extra chores and costs. But did you know a puppy can be great for your kids’ growth? According to a recent study from Pediatric Research, that’s a big yes!
Owning a pet brings a bunch of perks. It teaches kids important lessons like taking responsibility, building trust, showing compassion, respecting others, and being patient. Plus, kids and pets both love playing together and cuddling up for naps.
On the health front, studies suggest that kids growing up with dogs might get fewer ear and respiratory infections and need fewer antibiotics, maybe because being around animals early on helps boost their immune systems.
So have you made your mind? To make sure you find the perfect furry friend for your family, we’ve put together a guide on the best dog breeds for families. Keep reading for useful tips and to discover which breeds are naturally family-friendly.
Best Family Dogs
1. Golden Retriever
Golden Retriever is a quintessential family dog, showing up as the go-to pet in lots of TV shows and movies. They’re full of energy and just love to play, especially with kids. Imagine a dog that enjoys running, swimming, and fetching as much as your kids do. And they’re always there, following the little ones around, waiting for a chance to join in the fun or just snuggle up.
These dogs are not just fun; they’re also super sweet and always aiming to make you happy. They’re good with all kids, from the tiny tots to the bigger ones, because they’re patient and don’t get upset easily. Plus, they’re not big on barking, so your neighbors will be happy too.
Sure, Golden Retrievers need a bit of extra care with things like brushing their fur, socializing with other dogs, and getting enough exercise. But they’re also really easy to train and get along with everyone, making them not as much work as you might think compared to other dogs.
2. Labrador Retriever
Labradors are friendly dogs who get along with everyone, from babies to grandparents and even with other pets. They’re like big bundles of joy, always ready to play and incredibly smart, making them perfect for families who love to be on the move. Labs have a special talent for being gentle with little kids, picking up on the need to be careful around them really fast.
These dogs are on the larger side, so they fit best in homes where they can stretch their legs. And, boy, do they have energy to burn! If your idea of fun includes lots of outdoor adventures, a Lab might just be your perfect match. They’re totally into any kind of game, especially if it means they get to splash around in the water.
Taking care of a Labrador is pretty straightforward. They’re laid-back, quick learners, which makes training a breeze. You won’t have to spend a lot of time on grooming but brace yourself for shedding season. Regular brushing will become your new best friend, helping to keep those furry tumbleweeds under control.
3. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland dog is like a big, cuddly teddy bear that just happens to be alive. Smart and always wanting to make you happy, these gentle giants have a heart of gold, especially when it comes to kids. They’re a great family dog breed if you’ve got enough room at home. Imagine a dog so chill and patient that they were popular as nanny dogs, always keeping a watchful eye on the little ones.
These dogs are not just big; they’re sturdy enough to handle the most enthusiastic toddler hugs and often end up being the softest pillow for a child’s naptime. However, Newfies don’t like being left alone too much. They can get a bit anxious and, let’s say, creatively destructive if they’re left to their own devices for too long.
Caring for a Newfoundland is a bit like having a part-time job. Their thick, fluffy coats need regular brushing to stay mat- and shed-free. And because they love being around others so much, playdates with other dogs are pretty much a must.
4. Bulldog
Bulldogs might look a bit tough on the outside, but inside, they’re super friendly and absolutely adore families, especially kids. They’re the kind of pets that love being around people and will always be looking for a bit of extra attention.
They’re incredibly loyal and make great little guardians of the home, thanks to their brave hearts. Bulldogs can be a bit on the stubborn side, but they’re generally so well-mannered that you won’t need to spend all your time training them.
Just a heads up, though: bulldogs aren’t fans of the heat and can have a tough time breathing because of their flat faces. They’re pretty laid back and are happiest just chilling with you on the couch, making them perfect for apartment living. Just make sure they get enough exercise to keep them healthy and avoid putting on too much weight. And while they’re easy-going in many ways, their wrinkles need a bit of extra care to keep them looking and feeling good.
5. Beagle
Beagles are like the life of the party in the dog world, bringing cuteness and an unbeatable friendly vibe to any home. They’re full of energy and love getting into playful shenanigans, especially with their favorite little humans. Despite their zest for life, they’re surprisingly chill with kids, making them a cozy fit for families, even those with toddlers.
These dogs are a great pick if you’re thinking about getting a dog for the first time. They’re not too big, not too small, and have a go-with-the-flow attitude that makes them easy to fit into various lifestyles, whether you’re in a spacious house or a snug apartment.
Beagles do have a reputation for being vocal and loving a good bark, which is something to think about if you’ve got nearby neighbors. And yep, they like to dig, thanks to their hunting roots. Energetic to the core, beagles need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and out of trouble. But don’t worry, their care is pretty straightforward, thanks to their simple-to-manage coats and manageable size.
6. Boxer
Boxers are the life of the party—friendly, playful, and packed with energy. They’re like that fun friend who’s always up for a game of fetch or a run in the park. Especially great for families that love to stay active, Boxers bring joy and laughter into any home. They might be a bit too enthusiayardstic for very small kids, but with their ability to learn quickly, they can become the perfect playmates.
With their muscular build and vibrant personalities, Boxers are more than just good looks. They’re vocal, yes, but they’re all bark and no bite. These dogs are super loyal and protective, always on alert to keep you safe. Boxers love human company; they adore their families and love to be part of all the action.
Boxers need lots of playtime and brain games to keep them happy and out of trouble. So, if you’re more of a couch potato, a Boxer might just convince you to become an exercise enthusiast. Training is key to channeling their zest for life in the right direction. On the bright side, you won’t be spending much time on grooming, as Boxers are pretty low-fuss in that department.
7. Collie
Collies are like the superheroes of the dog world, always ready to keep their families safe and sound. They’re super devoted and have a protective streak, making them excellent for adding a bit of security to your home. Plus, they’re gentle and patient, which is perfect for homes with little ones toddling around.
These dogs are always up for a good time, whether that’s playing fetch or racing around the backyard. They’re pretty flexible, too, fitting in just as well in a cozy apartment as in a spacious house.
Worried about all that fur? The smooth Collie has got you covered with the same sweet personality but less grooming hassle. They’re a hit with families, especially when they start herding the kids around the yard in the cutest way possible.
Border Collies, a smart bunch, are quick to pick up new tricks and eager to please. Training them is a breeze thanks to their sharp minds, though their high energy and smarts mean they’re better suited for those with a bit of dog-handling experience rather than complete beginners.
8. Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons are like those adorable, tiny friends who are full of love and a bit of sass. They’re the perfect mix of cuddly and playful, making them great companions for families, though they’re especially good with older kids due to their petite size. With their wiry hair and big hearts, they’re all about giving affection and having fun.
These little guys are pretty easy-going and can thrive just as happily in a cozy city apartment as in a spacious suburban home. They’re super loyal and have a special talent for creating strong bonds with their people. Whether it’s a leisurely walk around the neighborhood or an exciting outing to the dog park, the Brussels Griffon is all in for any adventure.
When it comes to looking after them, you’re in luck because they’re not too demanding in the exercise or grooming department. But don’t let their small size fool you; these dogs have big personalities. Training might require a bit of patience since they’re smart and can be a tad stubborn, but it’s all part of their charming character.
9. Pug
Pugs are like those friends who always bring a smile to your face, with their squishy faces and cheerful nature. They’re full of fun and perfectly sized for family life, making them awesome buddies for kids. These little bundles of energy are just right for joining in on family adventures or cozying up for movie nights.
Pugs have a simple philosophy: eat well, sleep plenty, and enjoy life’s cozy moments. Keeping them healthy means sticking to their diet and ensuring they get enough exercise to balance out their love of snacks and naps. There’s no better snuggle buddy; as long as everyone’s okay with a bit of snoring in the background.
For those new to the dog world, pugs are a dream. They’re easygoing, get along with just about everyone, and aren’t too demanding in terms of grooming despite being a bit shed-happy. However, their unique faces mean they can have some breathing issues, so they do need a bit of extra care in that department. But don’t worry, they’re generally pretty chilled out, not too barky, and ready to spread their mellow vibes around.
10. Irish Setter
Irish Setters are like the celebrity stars of the dog world—gorgeous, athletic, and full of life. They mix a gentle spirit with endless energy in a way that’s simply unique. Smart and sweet, these dogs make fantastic playmates for kids looking for a fun-loving buddy.
Always up for an adventure, Irish Setters fit perfectly with active families that love to stay fit. Whether it’s playing fetch, diving into lakes, or exploring trails, they’re all about sharing the fun. They’re super friendly and have a knack for making everyone feel at ease, even around little ones.
One of the first things you’ll notice about an Irish Setter is their stunning, long chestnut coat that seems to shimmer in the sunlight. They have this beautiful feathering that just adds to their elegance. Keeping that glamorous look does take some work, though. Regular brushing and grooming are must-dos to keep their coats looking fabulous.
Conclusion
Finding the best dogs for your home means considering those energetic dogs that can keep up with an active family lifestyle. Breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (though not on the list) also make excellent family dog breeds, combining the gentle nature of a good family dog with the adaptability needed for both service dogs and excellent family pets.
Whether you’re looking for a medium-sized dog that thrives on rough-and-tumble play or a smaller companion that still holds its own, there are excellent family dogs out there that meet the diverse needs of pet parents.
Ultimately, the key to selecting the perfect family pet is understanding the unique dynamics of your household and choosing a dog that complements your life, ensuring a harmonious home for everyone involved.
