Thinking about getting a dog for your family, but not sure which ones can handle the chaos of little kids? Some breeds are known for being super patient, while others… well, let’s say they prefer a quieter life. If you’re looking for a dog somewhere in between—playful but not overly energetic, affectionate but not clingy, and tolerant but not a total pushover—you’re in the right place.
These dogs can bond beautifully with kids, but they also have their limits. They’re not the type to endure endless poking or rough play, so a little supervision and training go a long way. The good news? With the right environment and gentle guidance, these breeds can be wonderful companions for your little ones.
So, if you’re searching for a dog that enjoys family life without being overwhelmed, let’s dive into some great options that strike the perfect balance!
Dog Breeds Moderately Good with Young Children
1. Boxer
Boxers act like a clown, but guard like a pro. These muscular goofballs have energy to burn and hearts full of love. They’re affectionate, fun-loving, and fiercely loyal, making them great family dogs. But with kids? Let’s say they need a bit of supervision—they don’t always realize how strong they are!
Boxers thrive on human interaction, which is great for families who love an active companion. They’re naturally protective, which means they’ll keep an eye on the kids but are also playful. However, their enthusiasm can be too much for toddlers who aren’t steady on their feet yet. A Boxer’s idea of a gentle nudge might send a little one tumbling!
According to Petplan, these dogs are smart, but also a little stubborn. Training is essential, especially in homes with young children. Boxers respond well to positive reinforcement, so treats and praise go a long way. They need clear boundaries to understand how to interact with kids safely.
Early socialization is key! Boxers love their family but can be a little wary of strangers. Introducing them to different people and environments from an early age helps them become well-rounded companions. The more social experiences they get, the better they’ll be with kids and visitors alike.
One thing’s for sure—Boxers have endless energy. They need regular exercise to stay happy and well-behaved. A bored Boxer is a recipe for mischief! Families with active kids who love playing fetch or running around in the yard will find a perfect match in this breed.
Fun Fact: Boxers got their name from their habit of using their front paws to “box” while playing! It’s one of their signature moves, making them look like tiny, four-legged prizefighters.
2. Newfoundland
Meet the Newfoundland! These massive dogs might look intimidating, but they are some of the sweetest, most patient companions. They’re incredibly gentle with kids and have an instinct to protect, making them a solid choice for families—make sure you’ve got the space for them!
One of the unique things about Newfoundlands is their lifeguard nature. These dogs were originally bred to rescue people from water, and that instinct hasn’t faded. If your kids love swimming, don’t be surprised if your Newfie follows them around, ready to “save” them at the slightest splash. They’re natural-born guardians, but in the softest, most loving way possible.
Despite their giant size, Newfoundlands are surprisingly laid-back, as per Hill’s Pet. They’re not hyper or rough, making them a great fit for families with younger children. However, their sheer weight (often over 100 pounds) means they might accidentally knock over little ones without meaning to. Teaching kids how to interact safely with such a large dog is essential.
Newfoundlands enjoy walks, swimming, and light play sessions, but they won’t demand hours of running like some high-energy breeds. Keeping them active is important to prevent weight gain, which can be an issue with their large frames.
One of the best things about this breed? Their calm and nurturing nature. They’re known as “nanny dogs” for a reason—many families have stories of their Newfoundlands watching over kids like a protective older sibling. Just don’t expect them to be guard dogs. They might look intimidating, but they’re more likely to greet a stranger with a wagging tail than a bark.
3. Bulldog
With their signature wrinkled faces and stocky builds, they might look like little bruisers, but beneath that serious expression is a dog that thrives on affection. Bulldogs are known for their calm, friendly demeanor, making them a great choice for families with kids—don’t expect them to be high-energy playmates!
One of the biggest perks of having a Bulldog around children is its easygoing attitude. Unlike some energetic breeds that need constant action, Bulldogs are content just hanging out. They’re likelier to lounge on the couch next to your child than chase them around the yard.
Bulldogs are incredibly tolerant, making them great for kids still learning how to interact with pets. While no dog should ever be treated roughly, Bulldogs have a sturdy build and a patient nature, meaning they won’t overreact to an accidental bump or hug that’s too tight. However, they have limits, so teaching kids to respect their space is key.
Training a Bulldog can be… well, let’s call it an interesting experience. They’re smart and intelligent, but their stubborn streak is legendary. If they don’t see the point of a command, they might ignore it. The trick? Keep training sessions short, fun, and reward-based. They respond best to treats, so a little bribery goes a long way!
PetMD claims that despite their reputation for being lazy, Bulldogs benefit from daily exercise. Short walks and light play sessions usually keep them in shape. Overfeeding is a concern, though—these dogs love to eat, and they can quickly become overweight without proper portion control.
4. Irish Setter
These dogs have endless energy, a fun-loving personality, and a striking red coat. These dogs are known for their boundless enthusiasm, making them a great fit for active families with kids who love to play. They’re the type of dog that will happily race around the yard, join in a game of tag, and still have energy left for more.
They don’t just tolerate children—they thrive in their company! Their gentle yet playful nature makes them fantastic buddies for kids who enjoy interactive play. Remember that their excitement can sometimes be overwhelming for very young children, so early training is essential to keep their enthusiasm in check.
Irish Setters are natural socialites, unlike some breeds that can be wary of strangers. They’re friendly with just about everyone, which means they’re not the best guard dogs, but they’ll certainly be the life of the party! Their happy-go-lucky personality makes them a joy to have around, especially in a household that enjoys outdoor adventures.
Irish Setters are energetic dogs requiring daily exercise, long walks, and plenty of playtime to stay happy, as per Pawlicy Advisor. If they don’t get enough exercise, they can become restless and may find their own (often destructive) ways to burn off energy. If your kids are active and love the outdoors, this breed will fit right in!
One thing to be prepared for? Grooming that gorgeous coat. That silky, feathered fur isn’t just for show—it requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats. If you don’t keep up with grooming, their coat can become messy, especially after outdoor play.
5. Collie
Known for their kind-hearted nature and strong bond with children, Collies are fantastic family dogs that balance playfulness with responsibility. They may not be as hyper as some breeds, but they’re always up for a game of fetch or a backyard adventure with the kids.
They have protective instincts, as per Orvis. They’re natural guardians, always keeping an eye on their little humans. While they aren’t aggressive dogs, they will step in if they sense something is wrong. That’s why they are a great choice for families looking for a dog that’s loving and watchful.
One of the best things about Collies is their gentle approach to play. While some energetic breeds can get too rough, Collies have a natural sense of caution when playing with children. They adjust their energy levels based on who they’re with, which makes them one of the safest choices for families with young kids.
If you’ve ever seen a Collie in action, you’ll notice their incredible agility. They’re quick on their feet and love running, herding, or problem-solving activities. This means they thrive in homes with yards where they can stretch their legs and put their natural skills to use. They’re not the type of dog to be content with lazy days indoors.
Their luxurious coat is another standout feature—but it comes with responsibilities! Collies, especially the long-haired variety, require regular brushing to keep their fur tangle-free. While their coats shed moderately, a good grooming routine will keep the fluff under control and prevent excessive shedding around the house.
6. Bernese Mountain Dog
Say hello to the Bernese Mountain Dog! These large, affectionate dogs have hearts as big as their size, making them wonderful companions for children. They’re known for their calm, patient nature, which means they can handle the playful chaos of a household with little ones without getting overwhelmed.
Bernese Mountain Dogs have a balanced temperament. They’re playful but not hyper, affectionate but not overly clingy, and protective without being aggressive. They are one of the most adaptable family dogs—they’ll happily join in on outdoor adventures but are just as content lounging indoors with their favorite people.
Despite their large size, Bernese Mountain Dogs are incredibly gentle, states the AKC. They instinctively know to be careful around kids, making them a great match for families looking for an affectionate dog without being too rough. However, due to their size, they may accidentally knock over very small children, so supervision is still a good idea!
While they’re not the most energetic breed, Bernese Mountain Dogs still need daily exercise. A long walk, backyard playtime, or even a gentle hike will keep them happy and healthy. They’re not suited for hot climates, though—their thick coats make them more comfortable in cooler weather, so keep an eye on them in the summer months.
Their fur is thick and sheds year-round, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes. Regular brushing helps manage loose hair and prevents matting, especially around their neck and legs. If you don’t mind a bit of extra fur around the house, their beauty is well worth the effort!
7. Labrador Retriever
These dogs are famous for their friendly, outgoing nature, making them a top choice for families with kids. Labs are playful without being too rough, gentle without being timid, and energetic without overwhelming. This dog is fun-loving, patient, and endlessly loyal.
Labradors naturally love children and know how to interact with them instinctively. They’ll happily chase after a ball, splash around in the pool, or snuggle up after a long day of play. Their even temperament means they rarely get irritated, even when dealing with the unpredictable energy of little ones.
Labs are high-energy dogs, says WebMD. They need plenty of exercise, so they’re best suited for families who enjoy outdoor activities. Whether it’s a game of fetch, a run in the park, or a swim in the lake, Labs are always up for an adventure. If they don’t get enough exercise, they might find their own “fun”.
Training a Labrador Retriever is a rewarding experience. These dogs are highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them quick learners. Labs love the challenge, whether you’re teaching basic commands or fun tricks. They respond best to positive reinforcement, so treats and praise will go a long way in keeping them engaged.
Labradors have a loving and social nature. They form strong bonds with their families and thrive on human interaction. Labs don’t do well with loneliness—if left alone for too long, they can become anxious or destructive. They’re happiest when they’re included in family activities and get plenty of attention.
Conclusion
When choosing dog breeds for families with young children, it’s important to find family dogs that are gentle, playful, and eager to please. Some of the best dog breeds that fit this category include Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Beagles, and Bulldogs. These excellent family dogs are known for their friendly disposition, calm natures, and ability to bond well with kids and older children. While they may not be classified as nanny dogs, they still make great companions for active families. Proper training and mental stimulation are essential to help these dogs adapt to a household with small children and other pets.
For first-time dog owners, medium-sized dog breeds like Havanese dogs, Basset Hounds, and Bull Terriers can be a good family dog choice. These loyal dogs have an even-tempered personality and are easily trained with daily exercise and new tricks. However, larger dogs may require more space, while smaller breeds from the list of popular small dog breeds may not tolerate long periods of rough play. Some breeds, like the Bulldog, may have breathing difficulties, so owners should ensure they don’t overexert them, especially in hot weather.
Ultimately, selecting a great family dog means considering their ability to tolerate daily walks, exercise needs, and adaptability to family pets and older kids. Some sporting dogs, like the Irish Setter and English Setter, have boundless energy, making them perfect for active families, while others, like the Beagle, enjoy spending time with the whole family. Whether you’re looking for companion, service, or therapy dogs, finding the best family pet involves choosing a breed that can adapt well to young children while offering a lifetime of loyalty, intelligence, and companionship.
