The Best Dogs for Families with Children

If you have little ones then it’s important that you carefully select the best dogs for families with children.

But, what’s a family? In the collective imagination, a family is a couple with two children (of each gender) and a dog in a nice house with a garden full of flowers and a white picket fence!

Certainly, that image is quite different from our own or to that of current modern, urban trends. What’s true is that we have to be careful when choosing dogs for families with children. Take a look at this list and you’ll find out which they are:

Dogs for families with children

1. Old English Bulldog

Despite their somewhat intimidating appearance, Old English Bulldogs are not only quite affectionate with children, but they’re also perfect for those who live in apartments. They’re medium-sized dogs that seldom exceed 16 inches in height and 44 pounds in weight. The puppies are somewhat energetic but considerably calm down over the years.

Old English Bulldogs are good companions for kids; they’ll surely share hundreds of adventures together. In addition, this dog breed is a great guard dog, but can be aggressive around other dogs.

2. Golden Retriever

This is the quintessential breed of dogs for families with children. They’re faithful, affectionate and patient with children. Keep in mind that they’ll need to burn energy through play or exercise, especially when they’re still young.

Golden Retrievers need space due to their size. If they’re not active, then they’ll most likely gain weight. This breed is regarded as a great nanny.

3. Newfoundland

Newfies are one of the largest dog breeds and also one the most adorable and affectionate, especially around children. The Newfoundland is a terrific swimmer; it has a thick coat and can reach about 2.5 feet in height.

This kind of breed is highly sociable and patient. So, if you have small children, these can even ride the dog (the dog will let them) when going out for a walk.

4. German Shepherd

One of the most intelligent dog breeds out there, they’re always alert and work well as guards. In fact, they’re often fire and rescue dogs. The German Shepherd is one of the ideal dogs for families with children because they’ll fiercely guard and protect them.

In spite of its protective behavior, they’re faithful, kind and patient with their family. They’ll never take their eyes off you and will react immediately to any possible threat.

5. Bichón Frisé

This is a dog breed that looks like a moving stuffed animal; its energy is inexhaustible. They’re great with children and can entertain them for hours. As it’s a small animal, it adapts well to any home.

Keep in mind that a Bichón Frisé needs to exercise and stay active in order to keep them from getting bored and to avoid negative changes in their behavior.

6. Labrador

This dog is a relative of the Golden Retriever, and they have many characteristics in common. Labradors have what it takes to babysit and are patient and kind with children. They also have the energy to keep up with their activities, even in the water. The dog is very gentle with toddlers, and even with babies, despite their size.

7. Border Collie

Who can forget Lassie? Of course, this is one of the best ever dogs for families with children. The Border Collie is highly intelligent, reliable and affectionate, although it’s also an excellent guard dog.

Due to its large size (up to 26 inches in height), it makes for an excellent companion for small children. The dog is easy to train, quite sociable and very clean. You should, preferably, have outdoor space for these dogs.

8. Yorkshire Terrier

This is another small dog breed that looks like a stuffed animal and is quite adaptable to any type of household. Due to their size, they’re easy to drag along everywhere and they don’t cause problems.

The Yorkshire Terrier loves to play with children and it’s the ultimate lap dog. However, it can be a bit nervous and should be trained not to bark too much. Also, it’s a very sociable dog, funny and cuddly.

9. Pug

This breed is also known as Carlino and is a very peculiar one due to it’s wrinkly, short-muzzled face, and curly tail. Their smooth, glossy coats can be fawn, apricot fawn, silver fawn, or black. There is a trace of a black line that extends from the head to the tail.

Pugs are sweet, faithful and affectionate. They show their love effusively and are quite strong, in spite of their size. They like constant company, but get tired quickly. For this reason, they’re recommended for families with children no younger than 7 years old.

10. Hungarian Braco

Also known as Vizsla, this dog was originally bred for hunting and it’s great with children. It’s a little over 2 feet high, but it’s not recommended for small houses due to the lack of space.

The Hungarian Braco is highly intelligent and energetic, one of the perfect dog breeds for families with children.