15 Best Dog Breeds for Families with Children

Did you know that having the right dog can significantly improve your child’s emotional well-being? Though each dog has its own personality, some breeds stand out for their gentle temperaments, protective instincts, and patience, making them especially suitable for families with children. Here are 15 dog breeds that are great with kids.
Labrador Retriever

For good reason, labrador retrievers are among the most well-liked dog breeds in the US. Labs are easier to manage around children because they are brilliant and easy to train. Their high energy levels ensure they can keep up with the most active children, providing endless fun and exercise.
Golden Retriever

The playful and energetic nature of a Golden Retriever ensures they enjoy participating in various activities with kids, from playing fetch to going on hikes. Additionally, they are well-known for their tolerance and patience, and they are ideal for households with small children who are still learning how to connect with pets.
Beagle

Beagles are small to medium-sized dogs with affable natures and curious personalities. They will be great buddies for children who love to explore. Following their noses is a natural tendency for beagles, and it can result in entertaining wanders in the backyard or on family walks.
Boxer

Due to their endless energy, boxers are fantastic playmates for energetic kids. Their protective personality helps them look out for the safety of their young family members. Boxers are incredibly loyal, providing both companionship and security. Boxers also have a sense of humor, bringing joy and laughter to any household.
Bulldog

Bulldogs are sturdy and resilient, capable of handling children’s rough play. Despite their rugged demeanor, they are exceptionally kind and loving toward kids. Their calm nature makes them excellent pets for younger children. Bulldogs’ patient and gentle behavior ensures they fit well into family life.
Poodle

Noted for their hypoallergenic coat, Poodles are an excellent dog breed for families with allergies. Whether standard, miniature, or toy, they are brilliant and easily trainable. Their versatile nature and eagerness to please allow them to adapt to various family environments.
Bichon Frise

Bichon Frises are a breed that loves contact with people. Because of their kind and lively disposition, they are perfect playmates for kids. Like Poodles, Bichons have hypoallergenic coats, which can be a relief for families with allergies. They’re fascinating pets because they’re quick learners and very trainable.
Collie

Families with kids who wish to train their dogs can benefit from having a Collie because they are incredibly adaptable and react well to praise. Collies have a natural instinct to protect, ensuring they watch over kids in a home. Their playful yet calm nature makes them suitable for both active play and quiet time.
Newfoundland

This breed is admired for its sweetness and size, earning them the nickname “gentle giants.” Their protective instincts make them act as natural babysitters, watching over their young charges. Fun family outings at the lake or beach are more enjoyable with a Newfoundland’s love for water.
Irish Setter

Despite their high energy levels and playful nature, Irish Setters are known to be careful around children. This is particularly important for families with younger children, as they are less likely to accidentally knock them over or cause harm due to their size and strength.
Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are small, affectionate dogs that thrive on human companionship. While they may initially show cautiousness or hesitation with unknown children, supervised interactions are essential until they become comfortable. Shih Tzus can adapt to new babies in the family, and they have relatively low exercise needs.
Vizsla

This incredibly active dog breed enjoys participating in physical activities, making them great mates for older children who enjoy outdoor play. Vizslas can become very attached to their owners, often following them from room to room. Their need for companionship makes them excellent emotional support animals.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a royal lineage, initially bred as companion dogs for nobles in Europe, which speaks to their refined and gentle temperament. Their history as lap dogs means they thrive on close contact and companionship, making them perfect for children who enjoy a constant, loving presence.
Cocker Spaniel

These dogs have a keen sense of hearing and often act as alert protectors, providing security for families with young children. Additionally, engaging children in grooming routines, such as brushing their long, beautiful coats, can foster responsibility and strengthen the bond between kids and their pets.
Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a rich heritage as working dogs in the Swiss Alps, known for their strength and endurance. This background gives them a natural affinity for outdoor activities, making them a fantastic match for families who enjoy adventures like hiking and camping.