When it comes to choosing the perfect canine companion for a family, certain dog breeds stand out for their affinity with children and their adaptable nature to family dynamics. The best dog breeds for families offer a harmonious blend of patience and playfulness.
My experience with family dogs
When I was three, my father got us a Miniature Poodle for Christmas. From that moment on, I would always have a dog in my household. Our
On the other hand, there were no dogs at my best friend’s house. Their father was a plastic surgeon who specialized in wounds. As a result, he had seen enough dog bite victims to write off the idea of ever having a dog in the house. In retrospect, I have seen (and owned) enough poorly socialized dogs to understand his concern. However, as I have learned more about dogs, socialization, and training, I have learned that there is a reliable path to a great family pet.
Start with a dog that is bred for a friendly and calm temperament. Combine that with great socialization, and you will be well on your way to the perfect family pet.
20 Best Dog Breeds for Families with Small Children
Whether it’s a large dog that’s gentle with kids or a smaller breed bursting with energy and affection, family-oriented breeds are known to foster strong bonds, teach children responsibility, and provide unconditional love. For families embarking on the journey of pet ownership, understanding which breeds naturally thrive in family settings can lead to years of cherished memories and heartwarming companionship.
- Golden Retriever: Known for their gentle nature and patience, Golden Retrievers are often considered the quintessential family dog.
- Labrador Retriever: Playful and loyal, Labs have an innate love for children and make wonderful playmates.
- Beagle: With their friendly disposition and manageable size, Beagles are great for kids who love to play outdoors.
- Bulldog: Ever calm and sturdy, bulldogs are known for forming strong bonds with children and can handle the occasional rough play.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Their gentle temperament and affectionate nature make them a family favorite.
- Bichon Frise: These fluffy dogs are not only hypoallergenic but also love to play and be part of family activities.
- Boxer: Protective and playful, Boxers have a boundless energy that matches well with active children.
- Newfoundland: Often referred to as “nature’s babysitters”, these gentle giants are extremely protective and caring towards kids.
- Irish Setter: Known for their playful nature, Irish Setters are especially great for families with a spacious backyard.
- Poodle: Available in various sizes (standard, miniature, and toy), Poodles are intelligent and hypoallergenic, making them ideal for families with allergy sufferers.
- Collie: Think “Lassie”. Collies are predictable and gentle, always eager to please their families.
- Vizsla: These affectionate dogs are known for being gentle with children and forming close bonds with their families.
- Shetland Sheepdog: Smart and easy to train; Shelties are great with kids and have a protective instinct.
- Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: Their playful demeanor and soft coat make them a joy for children to play with.
- Boston Terrier: Friendly and adaptable, Boston Terriers are great for urban families and get along well with kids.
- Cocker Spaniel: Loving and gentle, Cocker Spaniels have a temperament that fits well in a family setting.
- Havanese: Small, sturdy, and playful, Havanese dogs are perfect for kids and don’t shed much.
- Bernese Mountain Dog: With a calm disposition and a sturdy build, they’re gentle giants perfect for families.
- Pug: Their sociable nature and love for play make them a great match for families with children.
- Australian Shepherd: Energetic and affectionate, Aussies are perfect for families with an active lifestyle and older children.
While this list contains some of the best dog breeds for families, it is not exhaustive. Explore our guide for more tips on choosing the right breed for your family.
Does the Breed Guarantee Temperament?
In short, no. Remember, while breed tendencies play a role in a dog’s behavior, individual temperament and proper training are equally important when introducing a new dog to a family, especially one with small children.
This is why we stress the importance of socialization for your furbaby. In fact, proper socialization can make the difference between having a happy family companion and feeling like the pet is a burden, or even worse, a pet that ends up at a shelter. Puppy socialization, coupled with a solid grounding in basic training, will set the stage for a long-lasting and loving relationship with your pet.
Even if you are looking for a guard dog for your family, it is important to balance those personality traits with lots of training and socialization. But for families with less experience, I recommend starting with a dog breed from this list.
With that said, you can increase your odds of getting a great family pet by selecting a breed that is bred to be a reliable companion for your family from a reputable breeder that breeds for temperament and health in addition to the breed’s physical traits.
More Resources
Still want more? Remember to visit our resources page for our dog socialization checklist, book recommendations, and more.