It is true that when you have children, you need to change your lifestyle and life choices. And pets are one of them. Pets are always a good idea for a family with children, and a lot of research proves how beneficial they are for the kid's character development. But is there any specific breed that suits this situation better? And the answer is yes, there are the best dogs for kids.
Top Dog Breeds for Children
Labrador Retriever
Size
Medium to large, usually 55-80 pounds.
Life Expectancy
10-12 years.
Temperament
Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds and a top choice as the family dog. They are known for their friendly, outgoing nature, making them excellent companions for active children.
Also Labradors are one of the most intelligent dog breeds. Their high trainability makes them responsive to commands, which is advantageous for families with children who may want to participate in training activities.
Golden Retriever
Size
Large, typically weighing between 55-75 pounds.
Life Expectancy
10-12 years.
Temperament
Similar to Labradors, Golden Retrievers are friendly, intelligent, and devoted. Their patience and gentle demeanor make them one of the best dogs for kids, ideal for families looking for a loving and active pet.
Irish Setter
Size
Large, around 60-70 pounds.
Life Expectancy
12-15 years.
Temperament
Irish Setters are an energetic and playful breed, which can be a great match for active families with kids. Their enthusiasm for play and exercise aligns well with the high energy levels of children. These dogs generally have a relatively long lifespan, which can mean that they grow up with and become lifelong companions for children in the family.
Pug
Size
Small, typically 14-18 pounds.
Life Expectancy
13-15 years.
Temperament
Pugs are charming, sociable, and great with kids. Their small size and affectionate nature make them one of the best small dogs for kids, ideal for families living in smaller spaces.
Newfoundland
Size
Very large, usually 100-150 pounds.
Life Expectancy
9-10 years.
Temperament
Newfoundlands are known for their gentle and patient nature. Despite their large size, they are one of the easiest dog breeds to have around children, often referred to as "gentle giants." While not aggressive, Newfoundlands have protective instincts, and their size alone can act as a deterrent. This protective nature can provide a sense of security for children and the entire family.
While no dog breed is entirely hypoallergenic, Newfoundlands have a dense, water-resistant double coat that may produce fewer allergens, making them potentially suitable for families with mild allergies.
Collie
Size
Medium to large, generally 50-75 pounds.
Life Expectancy
12-14 years.
Temperament
Collies are known for their predictability and gentleness. They are excellent with children and are often protective of them, making them great family pets. Collies are versatile dogs that can adapt to various living environments. Whether in a suburban home with a yard or an apartment, Collies can thrive as long as they receive proper exercise and mental stimulation.
While it's important to monitor interactions, Collies' herding instincts can manifest positively with children, as they may gently guide and watch over them.
English Bulldog
Size
Medium, usually 40-50 pounds.
Life Expectancy
8-10 years.
Temperament
Known for their calm demeanor and loyalty, English Bulldogs can form strong bonds with children, making them excellent family companions. Additionally, their sturdy build and patient temperament contribute to a safe and enjoyable interaction between Bulldogs and kids.
Boxer
Size
Medium to large, around 65-80 pounds.
Life Expectancy
10-12 years.
Temperament
Boxers are known for their strong, muscular build, making them robust playmates for active children. Their intelligence and trainability contribute to positive interactions with kids, as Boxers can quickly grasp commands and engage in various activities.
However, it's crucial to note that each dog's temperament can vary, and early socialization and consistent training are essential factors in fostering a well-behaved Boxer. Always supervise interactions between dogs and young children to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for both.
Cocker Spaniel
Size
Medium, typically 20-30 pounds.
Life Expectancy
12-15 years.
Temperament
Cocker Spaniels thrive on companionship and may experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. They make excellent family pets due to their social and loving nature. Known for their friendly and gentle nature, Cocker Spaniels are often described as affectionate and sociable. They tend to get along well with children, other pets, and strangers.
French Bulldog
Size
Small, typically weighing under 28 pounds.
Life Expectancy
10-12 years.
Temperament
French Bulldogs are great companions for children due to their gentle disposition and relatively low energy level, making them one of the best family dogs. But still, some issues should be considered before getting this breed.
Beagle
Size
Small to medium, about 20-30 pounds.
Life Expectancy
10-15 years.
Temperament
Beagles are a high-energy breed with a playful spirit. This makes them well-suited for active families, especially those with energetic kids who enjoy outdoor activities and play. Beagles typically have a gentle and even-tempered nature. This characteristic is beneficial when interacting with children, as it reduces the likelihood of aggressive behavior and increases the likelihood of positive, harmonious relationships.
In conclusion, when choosing the best dogs for kids, it's essential to consider the breed's temperament, size, and energy level. You can even use the Breed + Health Dog DNA Test for your dog to identify the dog's breed ancestry, shedding light on potential behavioral characteristics associated with specific breeds. Taking this test offers genetic screening for parents to identify potential hereditary health conditions that may impact the family's ability to care for a dog.
Whether you're looking for a large, energetic dog like the Labrador Retriever or a smaller, more laid-back companion like the French Bulldog, there is a perfect dog for every family. Remember, the key to a happy, long-lasting relationship between your children and your pet is proper training and socialization for both the dog and the kids. With the right match, a dog can become an irreplaceable family member.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most easy dog breeds?
The easiest dog breeds, such as the Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and Basset Hound, are typically known for their calm temperament and lower energy levels.
What are the best small dogs for kids?
The best small dogs for kids include breeds like the Beagle, Pug, and Collie, known for their friendly nature and manageable size, making them great companions for children.
