13 Best Dog Breeds for Families With Young Children

Is there anything cuter than dogs and kids together? I mean, is it not the reason we all get up in the morning? Well, maybe not everyone feels the same way, but nothing makes me smile more than when I see kids and dogs together. As a small animal vet, my clients often ask me about the best dog breeds for kids. Everyone wants to know which breeds have sweet dispositions and tolerate and love children – which are necessary traits to have in a new family pet.

13 Best Dog Breeds for Kids

1. Boxer

Boxers are known for being people oriented and for loving children. They are energetic and affectionate, but be mindful that they require plenty of exercise and playful interaction.

2. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands have been dubbed “Nature’s Nannies” because of their known love of children. They are large, sweet, and lovable fur-balls who desire nothing more than to keep watch over their families.

3. Shetland Sheepdog

This breed is medium sized, gentle, intelligent, affectionate, and easily trainable. They are lively and playful and love children, which makes them great family pets.

4. Labrador Retriever

Labs are definitely one of the best dog breeds for kids. They are also one of the most popular breeds all around, the best dogs to have if you’re looking for a date, the only breed accepted for training as arson dogs, and one of the more popular breeds used as service dogs. Labradors love to please their humans and are playful, protective, loving, and reliable.

5. Mutts

I have a soft spot for mutts! Go to your local shelter, and consider rescuing a mixed breed dog. Mixed breed puppies adjust well to children because they grow up with them. There are so many amazing dogs needing great families.

6. Golden Retriever

Goldens are very much like Labradors. They are extremely patient, great around children, and have high energy. Frequently used as service dogs, Goldens were originally bred as hunting dogs and are avid swimmers.

7. Bulldogs

Bulldogs are very popular family pets. They are calm, courageous, and friendly by nature. Their laid back and fun loving dispositions make them perfect for children.

8. Beagles

Beagles are energetic and friendly but also sturdy and pretty much childproof. They can help you herd the young ones at bedtime and have endearingly humorous habits, like howling, which can be amusing in small doses.

9. Bichon Frise

A Bichon Frise does not shed, and most pups have a sweet nature, making them ideal pets for families with young children.

10. Collie

“Lassie”…I think that says it all. These dogs are smart and predictable by nature. They love children and may lovingly try to herd them as they play. Collies also make great watch dogs. They are not aggressive, but they will bark a warning and protect, if attacked. They are typically gentle and loving, making them one of the best dog breeds for kids.

11. Irish Setter

Irish Setters are a better choice for families with yards because of their energy. They are wonderful with children because they are playful and energetic.

12. Standard Poodle

Standard Poodles are smart, gentle, and good for children with allergies as they do not shed as much as other breeds. The Standard Poodle is good-natured and makes an excellent playmate for young children.

13. Goldendoodle or Labradoodle

Both of these dogs are bred for amazing personalities. They are highly-intelligent, family-friendly animals. These dogs are affectionate, great with kids, and easily trained, making them the perfect family pet.

Final Thoughts

There are a couple of things I always tell my pet parents when they’re looking to add to their family. First, try and get a puppy. Dogs do much better growing up with children, and learning from a young age how to interact with them. Second, if a dog has ever shown aggression toward children, you should always be careful and watch them very closely when they are with your babies, regardless of any training they may have received. It is difficult to teach a dog not to be aggressive toward children if they already have that tendency.

Any dog breeds can be best for kids as long as you put your time and energy into not only training your pup but into loving them as a member of your family. I hope these tips help you find and love the next member of your family very soon!