Picking the Best Family Dogs for Kids
If you are thinking of introducing a dog into your family with young children, it's critical to choose a breed whose characteristics match your kid's temperament. Would your child love a pet to run around the yard with, or a friend to curl up and read a book with? Make sure you also consider the available space in your home. Do you have plenty of space, or is your home small?
Our vets often recommend the following dog breeds for families with children.
Mutt
Mixed-breed mutts can make excellent family dogs. These dogs can be just as good with children as purebred dogs, are less prone to hereditary or genetic diseases, and are less expensive to maintain.
If you're considering getting a mutt for your family, take your time visiting local animal shelters and have patience while looking for the right pup to suit your lifestyle. Shelter workers can provide you with a doggy profile that details all of a dog's characteristics and personality quirks.
Beagle
These mid-sized pooches are well-suited to family life. Weight in between 18 and 30 pounds, beagles often enjoy spending time with their owners, going for walks, and playing games. These loving, intelligent dogs typically make amazing family pets if they get enough exercise and interaction with their people.
Keep in mind that beagles are unsuitable for families that spend a lot of time away from home. without adequate exercise and attention, they can display destructive behaviors if left alone for long periods.
Boston Terrier
Boston terriers have an elegant appearance thanks to their tuxedo coats, which are easy to care for. This charming small breed typically weighs about 25 pounds or less and is well-known for their love of people.
They will adapt well to apartment living and make a great companion for children of all ages, as Boston terriers enjoy playing with children and taking short walks.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This lively but gentle breed is ideal for apartments or small homes, as most Cavalier King Charles spaniels weigh between 10 and 18 pounds.
These compact pups can be playful and cuddly with children, making them a lovely companion for children of all ages and activity levels.
Labrador Retriever
An excellent dog for children, Labrador retrievers are gentle, loyal, and entertaining. Most Labs enjoy spending time with people and will quickly become a great four-legged friend for your child.
However, make sure your Lab gets plenty of exercise or they will become mischievous. While these dogs vary in size, they typically weigh between 55 and 80 pounds.
Newfoundland
Sweet, loyal, and patient are just a few words to describe this fluffy giant. This endearing breed has a genuine fondness for children and is often referred to as a 'nanny dog' due to its gentle patience with them.
The Newfoundland weighs between 100 and 150 pounds, so you'll need plenty of room if you want to get one for your family. It's also important to note that, like many giant breeds, Newfs have a relatively short life expectancy of only 8 to 10 years, whereas many small to medium dogs can live 15 to 20 years or even longer.
Golden Retriever
The loyal Golden Retriever, which is affectionate, good with children, and playful with other dogs, is an excellent choice for families with children of all ages. This breed, with its dense, lustrous gold coat, is equally enjoyable to cuddle as it is to play with.
Golden retrievers are typically friendly family dogs who are easy to train. They approach life with a positive and playful attitude, and they maintain their youthful spirit well into adulthood. This breed typically weighs 60 to 80 pounds and sheds moderately.
Bernese Mountain Dog
If you want a large dog, your children will love this sweet-natured, fluffy breed. Bernese Mountain Dogs weigh 70 to 100 pounds and, despite their size, are known for being gentle with children, so they make the list as one of the best and most family-friendly dogs. Consider them if you are looking for a safe dog for kids. One word of caution: these large, beautiful dogs shed heavily.
