Thinking of adding a four-legged friend to your household? You’ve come to the right place. Adopting a pet, especially a dog, with children in the house can be overwhelming at times for first-time dog owners. This is why we have laid out this helpful guide for you to help you make the best decision.
Not only do these child-friendly dogs show affection and immense love to kids, encourage them to play outside and promote daily exercise like running or walking, but they’re also very protective of them.
An important factor to consider when adopting a dog for your kids is to consider your energy levels. If you choose a high-energy dog, you will need to make sure you have enough time for regular walks and playtime.
Also, if you have young children with endless energy, you must never choose a dog with sedentary habits; otherwise, they may get frustrated with the constant excitement.
Read on to learn the characteristics of the best dog breeds suitable for a family home, along with the 7 top breeds that we think make the perfect family dogs that are great for kids.
Happiest Dog Breeds Great For Kids
1. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are known to be America’s most popular dog breed. These dogs have a happy-go-lucky attitude and endless love for their family, especially children.
These dogs have an affectionate, loving, and fun nature, which allows them to create great bonds with their family, especially kids of all ages.
They are always ready for a fun time, whether it involves meeting new people, playing fetch in the yard, going for a walk, or simply lounging with their best pets. Labs are great with active kids, as they have someone who can match their energy perfectly.
Labs are full of energy, highly intelligent, and smart, which makes them well-suited for households having an active lifestyle. They are people-focused dogs and are always up for an adventure, which makes them good family dogs around the world.
One thing to keep in mind is that these dogs get very jumpy when excited and might knock over children when there’s not enough space to move around.
2. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are also a very popular dog breed among families. This breed has a playful side, which works great with both older kids and small children equally.
These dogs have a friendly attitude and a kind temperament, which makes it easy for them to settle down with their pet owners quickly.
Goldies are good family dogs as they are highly adaptable, have loads of energy, and are generally healthy. You will always find these dog breeds with a wagging tail, excited to see you, and turn a dull day into a happy one with just their big smile.
Golden Retrievers undergo early training and socialization, which allows them to deal with kids of all ages, giving them the title of best dog breeds ever. Goldens are tolerant and patient, which means they are not easily irritated by rough playtime, making them child-friendly dogs.
They adjust their energy according to the age of the kids. They are much calmer around small kids, especially toddlers, and energetic with older kids.
3. Boxers
Boxers are upbeat and playful dogs. These pups are excellent family dogs who are known for their affection, loyalty, and energy, which makes them best suited for active families with older children to match their strength and playfulness, as noted by the AKC.
Boxers form great bonds with their family and take their role as guardians very seriously. They do not shy away from barking or attacking intruders to prevent dangerous situations.
Boxers are given early socialization training to get along well with children and other breeds in the house, as noted by PetMD. These nanny dogs are trained to play and be gentle around kids, which makes them a preferable breed for pet owners.
4. Beagles
Beagles are not only the best family pups but are also the kindest and friendliest breeds in the canine world. They have an energetic and cheeky personality and love having a fun time with kids.
Despite their calm nature, these dogs never say no to an adventure and stay happy and tolerant when in the company of young kids.
One thing to be aware of when adopting these pups is that they can be very vocal and barky because of separation anxiety, and do not like being left alone for long periods of time.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are child-friendly dogs who are affectionate and loving pups who settle well with kids and other breeds in the house. These pups have big, soulful eyes and are sure to brighten your day with their cutesy smile.
These sweet-natured dogs tend to settle well in all environments, are extremely loyal, and love spending time with their owners.
These pups adore attention and are always up for a good, playful time with kids. These laid-back pups show unconditional love for kids and are very protective of them. These fun-loving dogs do not lose their cool very easily, making them the perfect breed to be around toddlers.
These pups do not tend to show any signs of aggression, but do not shy away from protecting their loved ones. They can easily form great bonds with their family and also love being lap dogs for a relaxed time.
6. Border Collie
Border Collies are known to be herding dogs who become great family dogs with proper training and socialization from an early age. These furry friends are intelligent, affectionate, and settle perfectly with well-behaved children.
They have an eagerness to please their owners, which makes it easier for them to form strong bonds with their family.
Collies are quick learners and can follow their owners’ commands easily. They love having a good playtime in the yard, playing fetch and frisbee.
Despite being very friendly, these loyal companions are not recommended in households with small children, as they are very hardy, lively, and have extremely high energy levels, which makes them great for older kids or teenagers.
7. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise are known for their gentle, sweet, and sociable nature. These small dogs thrive in human companionship and love being cuddled up with their favorite humans. Their small size makes them perfect to be around little children without worrying about them knocking over other children.
These furry little pets have a friendly personality and love to entertain people around them, which makes the Bichon Frise your best friend.
Purina UK mentions that the Bichon Frise forms great bonds with its family but may show signs of separation anxiety when left alone for longer periods of time.
These fur balls remind you of teddy bears once you look at them. They have curly hair, wide eyes, and playful faces that draw your attention towards them.
These dogs are cheerful, and you will never have a dull day being around these little comedians because of their silly antics and circus acts.
Conclusion
The above breeds are happy-go-lucky, friendly dogs who have all the traits of being a great family dog. Make your pick today! If you’re looking for a dog that is gentle around kids and keeps a watchful eye as well during playtime, you may choose one from the above list.
These dogs are also best-suited for families with kids, as they become their play companion, and it becomes easier for the parents to handle both the kids and the pets in a harmonious way.
