It’s important to understand that all dog breeds have their own distinct traits and characteristics which must be carefully considered before choosing a breed of dog for your family. Make sure that you understand the dog’s needs as well, such as health and grooming issues.
Here are 10 dogs that are considered to be the best “family dogs” and are known for their ability to get along well with young children, people, and other pets.
1. Labrador Retriever
America’s most popular dog breed, the Labrador retriever, is friendly, outgoing, and affectionate. Labs are an ideal companion for the whole family, including young children and other dogs you may already have. However, they do have high exercise requirements and need walks, to play fetch, or other games — even swimming — to stay entertained.
Labs are also easy to train, which is beneficial when teaching children how to interact with dogs responsibly. Their sturdy build and natural protective instincts can provide a sense of security to families with kids.
2. Bichon Frise
Recognized as one of the friendliest breeds on the planet, these little dogs love everyone. They’re known to get along well with young children and other animals. Not to mention, Bichon Frises are intelligent and have enough energy to play with children. They are also well suited to apartments and only need moderate exercise.
Bichon Frises are small in size but robust, making them easy for children to handle, and their hypoallergenic coat is a plus for families with allergies. And their adaptable and easygoing nature, combined with their minimal grooming needs, makes them a great choice for families.
3. Golden Retriever
These beautiful dogs are also among America’s most popular breeds. Their intelligence and friendly nature are why they are frequently employed as guides for search and rescue, hunting, and other fieldwork.
They are known for their loyalty and patience, which are valuable qualities when interacting with children. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable and social, making them a perfect match for a family setting. And, their playful and affectionate nature aligns well with the energy and curiosity of kids, and they are typically good with other pets in the household.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These gentle and affectionate dogs get along well with young children, other dogs, and the entire family. You won’t have to worry about them taking a long time to warm up to new people, they’re naturally very social! Plus, they combine the gentle nature of toy breeds with the athleticism of spaniels.
Not to mention, they need only a little bit of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They just need a decent amount of space to run around and they will be happy campers! In fact, what they truly crave most of all is human attention.
5. Beagle
These loyal companions are great with young children and other dogs. They are generally happy and lovable, making them excellent dog breeds for families. They are curious, with high energy, and require plenty of playtime and exercise. So, you can send your kids outside with your Beagle and they’ll all be entertained for hours!
Beagles are also known for their easygoing and curious personalities, and their loyalty makes them quick to bond with young kids. They are also relatively easy to train and can teach children responsibility and care for a pet.
6. Irish Setter
Some say an Irish Setter is among the best dogs for first-time owners. These sweet-tempered dogs are excellent with family, young children, and other dogs. In fact, their personalities are very similar to that of a child, as they just love to have a good time!
They have lots of energy and love to play with balls and toys, so kids are naturally drawn to them. And, as they do need exercise, they will be happy to run alongside you. They are also relatively easy to train, so you won’t have to devote all your attention to your pup 24/7 in the early stages of their life.
7. French Bulldog
Affectionately known as Frenchies, these playful and loving dogs get along well with children, family, and other dogs. They have minimal exercise requirements because of their small size. In fact, 30 minutes a day will do just fine! They are also intelligent and do well in almost any environment, including small spaces and apartments. So, if you have a small baby or are worried about them being around small children, you don’t need to be!
French Bulldogs are small in size, making them easy for children to handle, but their sturdy build ensures they can withstand the rough play that often comes with kids. And while they may not be as energetic as some other breeds, they can be active and enjoy interactive play.
8. Boxer
Boxers are among America’s most popular dog breeds. In fact, these affectionate, intelligent, and playful pups are some of the best dog breeds for children and families. Needless to say, they possess boundless energy that matches a child’s enthusiasm, making them ideal playmates.
Plus, Boxers are known for their loyalty and affection towards their families, offering a strong sense of security to kids. They are also very protective and, thus, should be socialized with other animals and people early in puppyhood. Not to mention, their strong and sturdy build ensures they can handle the rough and tumble play that often comes with children.
Read More: The 10 Most Affectionate Dog Breeds You’ll Want to Cuddle
9. Poodle
Poodles come in three distinct types: Toy, miniature, and standard. But, no matter the size, they are highly intelligent dogs that are affectionate with families and good with young children. Poodles are often considered one of the best dog breeds for children due to their intelligent and friendly nature. They have an adaptable temperament, making them excellent companions for kids.
However, they can be so-so with other dogs if not socialized early in puppyhood. BUT they are also hypoallergenic, which makes them great pets for children with allergies.
Read More: 10 Best Dog Breeds for New Owners
10. Pug
This lovable breed craves companionship, making pugs an excellent dog for families that can give them the affection they need. Pugs are playful and excellent with children, equally happy playing or cuddling. They are the ideal house dog, but they do need some exercise to stay happy and healthy, even if it occurs indoors.
Pugs are typically good with other pets, creating a harmonious atmosphere for families with multiple animals. Their small and sturdy build allows children to interact comfortably with them, and their energy level matches well with a child’s enthusiasm.
Read More: 10 Adorable Facts About Pugs
