Dogs are not just good pets; they are also good teachers. The emotional bond between kids and dogs cannot be denied. The National Library of Medicine suggests that kids who grew up with dogs are more empathetic, responsible, prosocial, and have higher self-esteem.
The right dog can be the perfect companion. A piece in Harvard Magazine expounds on the benefits of pets. According to it, you’ll achieve your daily step goal, have lower blood pressure, and improve your mental health.
However, finding the perfect match for your family’s lifestyle is also important. You need a dog that can share the same vibe as your family members. Some dog breeds are better suited for families with small children, and others do well with older kids. In this article, we’ll explore 7 of the friendliest dogs you might consider getting.
Dog Breeds That Will Share Toys with Kids
1. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are loyal dogs with a loving temperament. They are incredibly devoted to their families. But, most of all, they love playing with toys and kids.
According to the Canine Journal, Labs share and play with toys that promote their favorite activities. These activities include chewing, digging, and carrying fetch. Therefore, one should invest in chew toys, a rubber ball and a durable rope. Labs enjoy playing tug-of-war and chewing on a plushie.
A Great Family Dog
There’s a reason why this dog is one of the most sought-after breeds. It rates a 5/5 when it comes to getting along with other dogs, young children, and other family members. They can even share their toys with kids. They do well with strangers as well due to their playful nature.
They are water dogs, always ready to play in the rivers or oceans. The American Kennel Club notes that they were often partners with fishermen. Due to their high energy levels and eager-to-please nature, these dogs are highly trainable. They are a perfect combo for active families who do a ton of outdoor activities.
2. Beagle
Beagles are known for their friendly and playful nature. Due to this reason, they are one of the best dogs to have as a pet, especially if you have kids. Beagles love playing with kids and share their toys too.
They enjoy toys that they can chew up. A squishy plushie is a great choice. It makes sounds that keep the beagle entertained and also allows it to chew and bite without making a mess.
A Great Family Dog
Beagles are merry dogs. Due to their hunting abilities, their nose often gets them in trouble. Toys that help them to fulfill their desire to explore are a must. Their willingness to share and play with kids make them amazing family dogs.
Although they have more energy as puppies, it is important to give them regular exercise and stimulation. If not, it can lead to obesity and destructive behaviors. Playtime sessions at the park or even indoors with a nice squeaky toy or a ragdoll (they love to chew anything up) will make them happy.
3. Irish Setter
An Irish Setter are large sized dogs that aren’t good for apartment living. However, their size isn’t something to be afraid of. Irish Setters are actually very calm and gentle. These pooches love playing games with kids of all ages!
Britannica notes that they should be fed two medium-sized meals instead of one to reduce the chances of bloating. Another way to reduce bloating is to let them play with anything. They enjoy playing with an old shoe or sock too! Just get creative and let them release their high energy!
A Great Family Dog
Most people become attracted to Irish Setters because of their glossy red coats. But that’s not all they have to offer. These dogs are known for their fun-loving and sweet nature, love for long walks, and social interaction. They want to play with the kids, too.
If you have a large and active family, this dog is perfect for you. Irish Setters do not like being ignored or left alone; they do well in social settings. These are excellent companions for all of your family activities and fun.
4. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards were originally bred for search and rescue operations in the Swiss Alps. They became more popular as family dogs after the movie Beethoven. Keeping their past behavior, they have a kind and calm temperament, always offering a helping hand to anyone in trouble.
You never have to worry about your child not enjoying playtime with a Saint Bernard. They have been bred to respond thoughtfully to their environment. If your child wants to play with a soft plushie or a rubber ball, its best partner is a Saint Bernard.
A Great Family Dog
A dog with moderate energy levels, it loves short walks and hikes. As a people-oriented dog, it thrives on social interactions and loves playtime with parents and older children. They love to bond with their little owners and share toys with kids.
They don’t bark too loudly, but they are natural-born diggers. Make sure to supervise them when you’re playing with them in the backyard. Also, they need proper training from an early age. But they are fast learners, so they pick up good habits quickly.
5. Newfoundland
Also known as Newfies, they are one of the largest dog breeds. They originated from Newfoundland, where they helped fishermen and served as water rescue dogs. They have webbed feet that allow them to swim easily.
Due to this, they love pool time with kids. They have an affectionate temperament and will help you child not to be scared of the water. You’ll have a good swimmer in no time!
A Great Family Dog
A gentle temperament and a sweet dog, Newfies are good with big or small kids and other pets as well. They have moderate energy levels, so this makes them a good choice for those families that aren’t too active. They love to share things with kids.
Newfies require daily mental stimulation in the form of toys to keep themselves content. As they are prone to separation anxiety, try not to leave them alone for longer periods. Newfies do well with active children who can spend time with them.
6. Bichon Frise
A small dog breed, the Bichon Frise is friendly and affectionate. Their big personality is contained within their small body. Your child might confuse it for a toy, but it needs to know that it is a living, breathing being.
It is a hypoallergenic dog. In the dog world, these are the ideal lap dogs. As one of the best dog breeds with kids, they love playing games such as tug-of-war, hide and seek and scavenger hunt games. They also love having something to fetch or having a playdate with other puppies.
A Great Family Dog
These little dogs are really friendly and incredibly loyal. They are good for first-time dog owners who live in apartments. They are also highly trainable and eager to please their owners.
Just like any other pet, it forms strong bonds with its family and does exceptionally well with younger kids. A kind of Velcro dog, it is a playful companion that will resort to barking or chewing to entertain itself. Therefore, make sure that it has interactive toys so it doesn’t get bored.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Make way for British Royalty. These dogs were so loved by King Charles I and II that they took them everywhere. This small-sized dog has naturally floppy ears and a smooth, long coat as stated in PetMD.
This dog loves interactive dogs and bonding time with their loved ones. Or take them to a dog-friendly festival where they can meet and play with others.
A Great Family Dog
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a calm and incredibly patient companion dog.
Known for being fiercely loyal, they like walks and outdoor adventures.
They are easy to train and excel at sports such as obedience and agility courses.
It’s a great dog for companionship, but it requires a watchful eye, as sometimes it can get lost while chasing after a new smell.
Conclusion
On this list, we have large-sized, small-sized sized and medium-sized dogs, all of which make excellent family pets. They have boundless energy and do well with both older and younger kids. Once they bond deeply, they make great companions and become an essential part of your life.
These family dogs are incredibly social and well-mannered. Some are working dogs, others are therapy dogs, while others were originally bred for hunting purposes. No matter what, one of these dogs will match your lifestyle and help raise your kids.
