Every parent knows the drill: sticky hands, toy tornadoes, spontaneous sing-alongs—and through it all, your ideal dog just sits there wagging happily. Sounds like a dream? Not if you pick the right breed.
When you’re choosing a dog for a family with kids, you’re not just looking for a pet—you’re looking for a patient playmate, a cuddle buddy, and a protector who doesn’t freak out when a toddler suddenly tries to ride it like a pony. The best kid-friendly breeds have a gentle temperament, a forgiving nature, and an endless supply of affection.
Whether you’re looking for a big, huggable pup who adores playtime or a smaller snuggle specialist who’s calm and cuddly, the right breed can make all the difference. These dogs thrive on companionship, adapt well to family routines, and love nothing more than being part of the household chaos.
Here, we’ve rounded up the breeds that know how to handle the ups, downs, and sippy cups of family life. Because when it comes to raising kids with pets, the right dog becomes more than just a furry roommate—they become family.
Good With Kids Dog Breeds For Families
1. Toy Poodle
Height: 10 inches and under | Weight: 4–6 pounds
Don’t let their small size fool you — Toy Poodles are full of smarts, heart, and energy!
These tiny bundles of joy thrive in families with kids because they’re playful, gentle, and surprisingly sturdy for their size. Need a dog that can keep up with a toddler’s boundless curiosity? The Toy Poodle’s got you covered.
Petite, polished, and perfectly poised, the Toy Poodle has a tight, curly hypoallergenic coat that comes in a rainbow of colors — from classic white to rich apricot or jet black. Their fine-boned build and alert expression give them an air of refined charm, like a miniature aristocrat.
Toy Poodles are affectionate family dogs who love to interact. Despite their looks, they’re not all prim and proper — they’re spunky and love being the center of attention with kids who can keep up.
With their quick learning skills, Toy Poodles pick up commands and tricks faster than you can say “sit,” making them good companions for families who want a clever, loving dog with a big personality.
Pro tip: Toy Poodles love mental challenges — puzzle toys and training games keep their brilliant brains busy and happy.
2. Maltese
Height: 7–9 inches | Weight: 4–7 pounds
Maltese dogs are like your kid’s best fluffy friend — sweet, affectionate, and ready for snuggles at a moment’s notice. The Maltese carries elegance in every strand of their long, silky white coat. Small, with graceful movements and expressive, button-like dark eyes, they look like a plush toy brought to life.
These small dogs are gentle and affectionate dogs, happy to be cuddled, groomed, and spoiled — but don’t be fooled, they’ve got a playful dog side that shines when kids get them going.
Despite their delicate appearance, Maltese are tough little troopers that match even the most energetic kiddos. They’re alert and quick learners but have a gentle nature that makes them ideal for homes with children.
PetMD noted that Maltese dogs are deeply attached to their families and thrive on constant companionship. They may experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
While they benefit from daily physical activity like all dogs, Maltese don’t need intense workouts to stay happy and healthy. A stroll through the neighborhood, a playful session in the yard or indoors, and practicing a few new tricks are more than enough to keep them content.
Heads-up: Regular grooming keeps their lovely coats tangle-free — and the cuddles are coming!
3. Papillon
Height: 8–11 inches | Weight: 5–10 pounds
Papillons might be small, but their personality is anything but! Named after the French word for “butterfly” because of their distinctive, wing-like ears, these pups are full of life, intelligence, and a whole lot of charm.
Outgoing and eager, Papillons bring the sunshine wherever they go. They’re curious, bold for their size, and enjoy mentally stimulating games.
They love to be part of family fun and are especially great with kids who know how to be gentle and respectful. These dogs are smart, agile, and eager to please, so they’re quick to learn tricks and games that keep everyone entertained.
Purina says they’re typically very sociable with other pets, especially when introduced and socialized early on. With the right start, Maltese usually have no trouble forming bonds and coexisting peacefully with other dogs or even cats.
Their happy, alert demeanor makes them a delightful companion for active families who want a dog that’s playful but not overwhelming.
4. Brussels Griffon
Height: 7–10 inches | Weight: 8–12 pounds
With their distinctive beard and mustache giving them an almost human-like expression, Brussels Griffons are hard to forget.
Historically called the “bearded dog” in Belgian folk songs, their unique look pairs perfectly with their big personality. These little sidekicks are famously loyal — they’ll follow you everywhere in the house and love curling up in bed for some serious cuddle time, says WebMD.
Lovably dramatic and deeply loyal, Griffons bond hard with their humans and tend to follow them around like a shadow. Brussels Griffons do best in homes with kids over five years old — their sensitive nature means they prefer a calm, respectful environment without roughhousing or larger pets crowding their space.
Brussels Griffons are part of the brachycephalic breed group, known for their short snouts and flat faces. This facial structure makes them more likely to snore and more vulnerable to heat and humidity, so they shouldn’t be kept outdoors for long stretches.
On the flip side, their petite size also means they’re sensitive to very cold temperatures and don’t handle chilly weather well either.
Heads-up: They need gentle handling and lots of affection — they’ll repay you with endless love and companionship.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Height: 12–13 inches | Weight: 13–18 pounds
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel traces its roots back to the noble courts of England, where it was a favorite lapdog of royalty, especially King Charles II, who was rarely seen without a few of them by his side. These little spaniels were bred to be charming companions, lounging on velvet cushions and warming laps in chilly castles.
With long, velvety ears, a feathered tail, and expressive, gentle eyes, Cavaliers look like they stepped out of a royal portrait. Their flowing coats can come in rich color combinations like Blenheim, tricolor, ruby, and black & tan.
They’re famous for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them instant favorites with kids and adults alike. These pups love to be involved in family life, whether it’s sitting quietly during storytime or romping around the backyard.
Their adaptable and easygoing personality means they get along well with kids of all ages, and their friendly disposition makes them great with other pets too.
Just keep in mind: their gentle nature means they don’t enjoy being left alone for long periods, and they can be prone to separation anxiety.
6. Havanese
Height: 8.5–11.5 inches | Weight: 7–13 pounds
The Havanese, formerly called the Havana Silk Dog or Spanish Silk Poodle, is the only dog breed that originated in Cuba.
Small but sturdy, the Havanese sports a soft, silky coat that can be curly or wavy, with a signature plume of a tail curled high over the back. Their bright eyes and springy walk add to their cheerful vibe.
Havanese dogs are full of personality — playful, goofy, and always ready to join in on family fun. Their soft, silky coat and expressive eyes make them irresistible, but it’s their cheerful, affectionate demeanor that truly steals the show.
Havanese thrive in lively households. These small dogs are sociable and love following their humans from room to room, making them great playmates for kids and excellent entertainers for the whole family.
They’re also quick learners and love to show off new tricks, making them a hit with active families who want a furry friend that’s both fun and trainable.
Heads-up: Their coat needs regular grooming, but those cuddles and tail wags make it totally worth it!
7. Pug
Height: 10–13 inches | Weight: 14–18 pounds
Pugs are small but mighty in personality, known for their charmingly mischievous antics and big-hearted nature.
Instantly recognizable with their round, wrinkly faces, deep-set eyes, and tightly curled tails, Pugs have an endearing look that screams mischief (in the best way). Their compact bodies and smooth coats make them easy to snuggle and easy to care for.
Purina says their sturdy build and adaptable temperament make them perfect family dogs, especially for households with kids who appreciate a bit of goofy fun.
Pugs don’t need much intense exercise. A couple of short walks and a bit of playtime indoors will keep them happy and healthy. However, because they’re a brachycephalic breed—with a short, flat snout—they can struggle with breathing in hot or humid weather, so it’s important to keep them cool and avoid overexertion
Whether you’re in a bustling city apartment or a cozy country home, Pugs are happy as long as they’re close to their people. They’re social butterflies who get along great as the only pet or part of a furry crew.
Pro tip: Don’t be surprised when your pug steals the spotlight (and the last cookie).
8. Shih Tzu
Height: 9–10.5 inches | Weight: 9–16 pounds
The Shih Tzu (pronounced “sheed-zoo” or “sheet-su”) is the ultimate lapdog with a royal glow-up. With their long, flowing coats, pushed-in faces, and wide-set eyes full of expression, they look like little lion kings—and act like it too.
Sweet-natured, affectionate, and often downright sassy, Shih Tzus were bred for one purpose: to be your devoted companion. And they take that job very seriously.
These dogs adapt well to apartment living and thrive on attention, often following their favorite humans from room to room. Shih Tzus have a calm energy but enjoy playful moments, striking a perfect balance for families with children.
These dogs are happiest when they’re near their people—curled up on your lap, trailing you from room to room, or proudly strutting beside you on short daily walks. They don’t require a ton of exercise but do love playtime and attention.
Thanks to their sturdy little frames and friendly temperament, they tend to do well with kids, seniors, and even other pets (as long as they’re introduced properly).
9. Boston Terrier
Height: 15–17 inches | Weight: 10–25 pounds
The Boston Terrier, affectionately known as the “American Gentleman,” lives up to the nickname with its tuxedo-like coat, friendly demeanor, and charming personality. Compact, energetic, and full of character, this breed is equal parts cuddle buddy and playful clown.
Whether they’re zooming around the living room or snuggling in your lap, Boston Terriers are always ready to make you smile.
They’re affectionate and people-focused, forming strong bonds with their families and often shadowing their favorite humans. Boston Terriers are also known for being good with kids and getting along well with other pets, especially when socialized early.
Smart, alert, and eager to please, Boston Terriers make wonderful companions for city dwellers and suburban families alike—basically, anyone who appreciates a dapper dog with a goofy heart.
Though they’re small in size, these dogs are full of energy and enjoy regular play sessions and walks. However, because they’re a brachycephalic breed (with short muzzles), they can be sensitive to extreme heat or overexertion, so it’s important to keep exercise moderate and avoid hot weather outings.
10. French Bulldog
Height: 11–13 inches | Weight: 16–28 pounds
French Bulldogs, aka “Frenchies,” are the masters of easy-going companionship. Short, muscular, and compact with their famous bat ears and squishable face, Frenchies have a “tough guy on the outside, marshmallow on the inside” appeal. Their short coat is smooth and low maintenance.
Calm, quirky, and incredibly loyal, French Bulldogs are fantastic with kids thanks to their even temperament and love of companionship. They’re low-energy lap warmers who enjoy brief bursts of play — and lots of couch time afterward.
Known for being adaptable, they thrive in apartments or houses. Plus, their tendency to keep the barking to a minimum is a bonus for busy households.
Their small size and low exercise needs make them ideal for families who want a loving dog without the high-energy chaos.
Heads-up: Watch out for snorts and snuffles — these dogs have a personality as big as their snores!
Conclusion
Finding the right dog for your family means choosing a breed that’s well-suited to your lifestyle and great with small children. From gentle giants like the Bernese Mountain Dog and Golden Retriever to loyal mixed breeds and purebred dogs like the Irish Setters or American Staffordshire Terrier, many dog breeds for kids are known for their even temperament, affectionate nature, and ability to form strong bonds with family members.
These medium-sized dogs and big adult dogs, whether new dogs or older dogs, thrive with consistent training, daily exercise, and love from their pet parents. Most dogs, when originally bred as nanny dogs or companions, were generally healthy, fluffy breeds that made for a great family pet. With the right characteristics and adequate exercise, many breeds can become the perfect good family dog, proving that with care and attention, the best dog breeds are those that welcome other dogs and good families alike.
