When you bring a dog into your home full of children, you are actually welcoming a gentle guardian, a playful buddy, and a patient soul who can put up with sticky fingers and loud giggles. Some dog breeds just seem naturally wired to love kids. These are the most child-tolerant dogs that grow up to be the most cherished family dogs.
They tolerate kids, but more than that, they adore them. They will let small children tug their ears, run after them in the backyard, and cuddle up on the sofa like little furry babysitters. If your young family lives in an apartment or have a big house with a yard, these best dog breeds for kids should be your first pick.
Most Child-Tolerant Dog Breeds
These dogs are gentle, patient, kind, and endlessly loving dogs that grow up to be your children’s best friends forever.
1. Beagle
With their floppy ears and bright eyes, Beagles look like they walked straight out of a storybook. This medium-sized pup is small enough to be easy to manage, but energetic enough to keep up with an active family. Beagles are one of the most child-tolerant dogs and make a good family dog.
Key Traits:
Medium-sized dogs with a solid build
Very gentle and playful dogs
Patient and loving around children
With an average lifespan of 10-15 years, your kids can have a long companionship
Beagles are curious, smart, and always up for a game of chase or playing fetch. That’s because they were originally bred as scent hounds. They are one of those purebred dogs who are famous for their good-natured temperament.
They rarely get rough, and they are never timid. That is why they are one of the best dog breeds for families who want an active pup with good energy levels that fits into the family like they have always been there.
2. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers come to mind 100% time when we talk about family dogs. And isn’t it easy to see why? These gentle giants are highly affectionate, loyal, and good companions. They won’t just put up with your children; they actually enjoy spending time with kids.
Key Traits:
Highly affectionate nature and gentleness 101
Patient with small kids
Highly trainable and eager to please
Lifespan of around 10-12 years
Goldens are one of the most high-energy dogs you can find with a friendly disposition towards children. They are a big dog with a soft mouth and even softer heart. Even though they are a large dog breed, they fit perfectly into most families.
If you want one of the most gentle dogs for kids and great family pets that loves playing outside, going for walks, and cuddling on the couch after a long day… this is the right breed for you.
3. Newfoundland
Newfoundland dogs may look like giant bears. But they are actually one of the most gentle giants you will ever meet. They are known as “nanny dogs” because they have one of the most patient and loving natures of all dog breeds.
Key Traits:
Calm and watchful around children
Very loyal and good-natured
Perfect for swimming, and can accompany your kids to the pool
Lifespan of 9-10 years
This dog is originally bred as a working dog, which means they are strong and built for outdoor adventures. Even so, they are famous for their loving nature; they are also quiet and perfect for pet parents looking for a large and gentle dog that may act like a caring big brother.
Despite their huge size, they are rarely aggressive. So, one of the most child-tolerant dogs than most other breeds.
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
There is something instantly warm and cozy about a Bernese Mountain dog. Big, beautiful, friendly, and fluffy breed, these dogs are one of the most gentle dogs for kids and a top choice for families living in cooler areas.
Key Traits:
Patient and calm around small children
Very loyal and loving
Gentle giants that adapt to family lifestyle
Lifespan of 7-10 years
Bernese Mountain dogs were first developed in the Swiss Alps as farm dogs, as stated by PetMD. So, they are strong and tough, but they are also super gentle. This large dog is one of the most good-natured around small kids and even small dogs.
Even though they may not live the longest, they make every moment count. They are a perfect fit if you want a big and gentle dog with a propensity for the outdoors, who is playful, and loves being close to their humans.
5. Poodle
Poodles may look fancy with their Poodle coats, but these dogs are far more than a cute face. Poodles, whether Toy, Miniature, or Standard, are among the most highly trainable and most child-tolerant breeds.
Key Traits:
Hypoallergenic coats, great for allergy-prone families
Very smart and gentle
Playful dogs who love attention
Lifespan of 10-18 years
Poodles are energetic but easygoing, loving, and loyal without being too clingy. Plus, their gentle and affectionate nature makes them great family dogs for busy households.
AKC states that they do just as well in an apartment as they do in a house. Consistent training and adequate exercise make them fit into any lifestyle. Hence, they are a wonderful choice as the best dog to be around kids.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These dogs are maybe tiny, but they have hearts as big as any other dog. These small dogs are famous for their affectionate nature and make a great family dog for people who want a cuddly and loving lapdog.
Key Traits:
Gentle and super patient, excellent family dogs
Small size, great for apartments and small houses
Loving nature and incredibly loyal
Lifespan of 12-15 years
Cavaliers are perfect for children and first-time pet owners. However, you should not leave them alone for long periods of time, as these dogs are sensitive and may develop separation anxiety when away from a family member, as confirmed by PDSA.
They need moderate daily exercise and would prefer being couch potatoes with you. They are also great with other pets and are one of the most child-tolerant dog breeds for families you can welcome into your home, even as a new dog.
7. Pug
Pugs might be one of the most charming little breeds you will ever meet. They make wonderful pets due to their silly faces and laid-back attitudes. Truly a small dog with a big, big personality.
Key Traits:
Quiet and easygoing
Friendly and very tolerant of kids
Happy in both small spaces and big homes
Lifespan of around 13-15 years
Purina states they need daily brushing and grooming, and they would love walks every other day. They are gentle and loving with children, and their goofy personality makes them one of the friendliest breeds for young children.
Their friendliness is truly addictive, and they get along well with anyone in the family. They are also a good fit for any family, busy, active ones, or those who want a more couch-potato lifestyle.
Conclusion
When you decide to get a dog for your house with children, you might want a dog who will fit into your family like they were meant to be there all along. Apart from these breeds, you can also check out Boxers, Labrador Retrievers, Bull Terriers, French Bulldog, Bichon Frise, Irish Setters, Cocker Spaniel, etc.
Each of these dogs has a unique personality, temperament, and energy level. So, look for the right breed. No matter which one you choose, these dogs will offer you lifetime love… and playfulness and gentleness to your children.
