The Best Family Dogs - 10 Breeds For Homes With Children
I often receive questions about breeds that will do well living in homes with children. These questions are difficult to answer because there is not one single breed where I can say each and every dog will be child friendly. However there are many breeds that generally *are* great with children! Here is a list of 10 breeds of all shapes and sizes that do well in growing families.
Newfoundland: “Is that a bear or a dog?!” Be prepared for that question if the Newfoundland is a dog that grabs your attention! Newfy’s are a giant breed of working dog who are usually all black. They are known for their placid nature and their natural ability to swim. In fact, they are so “made” for the water that the breed has webbed feet! This breed is very laid back - a true gentle giant. They are known to be easy to train (though some are a bit lazy at times), however they have a tendency to drool due to their large jowls.
Photo by deltm
Pug: The Pug is the only member of the toy group on our top 10 list. These stocky little wrinkled dogs have been described by breed experts using the Latin term “multum in parvo” (”much in little”). This breed is incredibly sociable, preferring the company of humans over other dogs or pets (though they usually do get along with them). They seem to have a special bond with children and love to play. In all my years working with dogs I have yet to meet a human aggressive pug! (This isn’t to say they don’t exist, but it does say something about the breed and their personality)
Photo by efleming
Staffordshire Bull Terrier: The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a breed that has been known historically for their reputation as a family dog, especially their trustworthiness with children. They are incredibly affectionate with their families and while they may alert (by barking) to danger - the breed is not one that is prone to human aggression. However it must be said that Staffy bulls are not dogs for those who want their dogs to socialize with other pooches. These are not “dogpark” dogs. Due to their dominant nature they have a tendency towards dog aggression and will not back down when challenged. They make ideal companions for single dog households with experienced dog owners.
Photo by Marta Stefan
Labrador Retriever: The Labrador Retriever is probably the most popular dog in the world currently (as far as registered ownership numbers show). They have a reputation as wonderful family dogs and while that is mostly true, this doesn’t come as automatically as some people assume! Labs aren’t bred to be placid. They are working dogs and need to be trained. An untrained, under exercised Labrador is going to be hyperactive and boisterous (and could knock down a toddler by accident!). However, a properly trained, well walked lab is going to be a great family companion. Labs mature slowly and often retain puppy-like behaviors until they are about 3 years of age.
Photo by eraki
Keeshond: The Keeshond is a medium sized fluffy breed that often looks like it is smiling - it actually earned the nickname “Smiling Dutchman”. Keeshonden (the plural) are stocky dogs who have an affinity for learning tricks. They even tend to pick up things that you don’t mean to teach them, so be careful! They are great companions for children, as they love to explore and will happily partake in any games that kids will play with them. Keeshonden will alert to visitors with a loud bark, but will then happily allow them into the house!
Photo by jpdoyle
Golden Retriever: The Golden Retriever is right up there with the Lab as far as the stereotypical family dog goes. These hunting dogs are overly friendly (meaning they are *not* watch dogs!) and will retrieve almost any item for as long as you will throw it. They are often boisterous as puppies and need to be supervised with small children to keep them from knocking them over by accident. Goldens are an extremely intelligent breed and are commonly used as service dogs. They are highly trainable and pickup commands quickly.
Photo by acornchief
Collie: The first thing most people think about when we picture children and Collies is “Lassie” saving Timmy when he fell in that well! Collies are gentle family dogs and although they may not have the psychic knowledge that “Lassie” did about danger, they are well suited to life with children. The breed is active and gentle and any aggressive tendencies would be a huge personality fault. The long coat needs brushing to prevent matting.
Photo by Airplane Lane
Standard Poodle: Poodles are such multifaceted dogs, you’ll see me recommending them in so many situations! Though they have a frilly exterior poodle comes from the German word “Pudel”, which is short for “Pudelhund”, that translates into “splashing dog”. This breed can work with the best of them - hunting, swimming and retrieving! They are also extremely intelligent and do well in all dog sports. Their affectionate and patient nature makes them a great choice for families.
Photo by Grizzly & Jiggs
Bernese Mountain Dog: The Bernese Mountain Dog is another “gentle giant” - they usually range from 80-120 lbs and have a kind and gentle look about them that gives great insight into their personalities. The breed is generally very stable and trainable but requires a patient hand and lots of positive encouragement. They make excellent companions for children and other pets. Bernese Mountain Dogs were used to pull carts in Switzerland and the The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America holds trials for this activity!
Photo by foulkefamily
Bulldog: The Bulldog is one of the characters of the dog world! They snort, they snore - they’re stubborn! They’re also very docile and loyal pets who are known to do well with children and other animals. This breed needs a minimal amount of exercise, but they should not be allowed to become obese. Bulldogs are prone to many health issues (including skin issues, cherry eye and hip dysplasia) so it is very important to seek out a reputable breeder if you are interested in one of these dogs.
Photo by jess911baby
For more information on teaching your children to be dog savvy, check out my piece “Is Your Child Safe For Dogs”
June 9th, 2008 at 7:01 pm
[...] Orchards, Washington, a program called “Read To Rover” is helping young children improve their reading skills by harnessing the attention of a captive audience - dogs! Volunteer [...]
July 8th, 2008 at 8:01 am
[...] This Lab is moving at top speed! Learn more about Labs as family dogs here! [...]
July 25th, 2008 at 1:04 pm
[...] named “Seaman”. Newfoundlands are a faithful breed that has a reputation for being exceptional with children. The breed can also be used to pull carts and rescue drowning people, so it seems like a dog like [...]
July 28th, 2008 at 6:59 pm
[...] may be a very enjoyable activity! I’m sure if your dog has a close relationship with your children, he wants to be where they are - on water or land. If you live in a location with hot summers, your [...]
August 11th, 2008 at 11:28 pm
[...] family and I are considering a new family dog. Leaning towards an Irish breed. Mostly just because Ireland is my favorite country besides the US. [...]
September 14th, 2008 at 6:59 am
[...] Corsos are generally good with children and are very eager and willing to please. They are highly intelligent and catch onto training [...]
September 25th, 2008 at 3:29 pm
[...] Airedale Terrier will generally do well with older children, but may be a bit too energetic for smaller ones. They are usually friendly with strangers they [...]
September 28th, 2008 at 11:13 am
[...] Guide, the best dog for families with children is the Newfoundland. Which other breeds made their Top 10 Best Breeds for Families with Children? Check out the article and see if your dog made the [...]
October 2nd, 2008 at 11:45 am
I am looking for a good family dog. I have two kids,two ferrets, a cat, and a Dachshund. I am looking for a big dog one that would be protective and loyal. A family guard dog I guess. I have been thinking about a Saint Bernard or a Great Dane. But the Bernese Mountain Dog has the same size and says that they are good with kids too. I would prefer something with shorter hair but that is the lowest thing on my list. Just a good dog. I work a lot of hours and need someone to keep my family safe when I am away. Thank you, Jon.
October 8th, 2008 at 7:46 am
[...] are generally a breed that does well in households with children. They also are known to get along with cats as well as most other [...]
October 17th, 2008 at 10:58 am
Hello!
we are Hammerstaff kennel from Romania.We breed Staffordshire Bull Terrier.It was a pleasant surprise to find our photo with our dogs and child on this site. And for the picture to have a name, there are Zupa, Pispis&and our son Petru in the picture you published. You may find more beautiful pictures on our website.
Best Regards!
October 27th, 2008 at 4:38 pm
[...] wary of people they don’t know.  They aren’t generally recommended for homes with small children as the can be mouthy and rough with youngsters. ACD’s can get along with cats if they are [...]
November 5th, 2008 at 7:13 pm
[...] Usually their imposing size is enough to intimidate any potential troublemakers! This breed is very good with children, but they are not suggested for homes with toddlers as they may unknowingly hurt them or knock them [...]
November 24th, 2008 at 8:04 pm
[...] and intelligent breed that gets along well with other animals and makes a good companion for families. While some of these dogs have a high herding drive, it is usually not comparable to that of the [...]
November 26th, 2008 at 7:00 am
[...] Staffordshire Bull Terrier takes the job of “Nanny Dog” very [...]
November 30th, 2008 at 9:11 pm
[...] active and mentally stimulated. They are affectionate canine family members who get along with children and other pets. When choosing a Lagotto pup, make sure that they are outgoing - this breed [...]
December 16th, 2008 at 12:09 am
[...] Otterhound has a friendly, outgoing temperament and is a breed that does well in homes with children. However due to their large size and exuberant personalities this breed is not ideal for households [...]
January 8th, 2009 at 4:11 pm
[...] aggressive and will normally greet strangers happily. Icelandics are a good choice for homes with children and other pets. They are playful and thrive on [...]
January 10th, 2009 at 7:02 am
[...] are a fantastically personable breed that has a reputation for being wonderfully reliable with children, however they are quite [...]
January 12th, 2009 at 10:39 pm
Hi,
Wish you included Great Danes.
If a Newfie is in the list, a Dane is a natch.
Great with kids, Scooby Doo, Marmaduke, and known as the ‘Gentle Giant.’
I have two, and we take them hiking every weekend and everyone loves them!
Obama should consider one, or two from a GD shelter!
Feed them BARF tho!
Take care.
January 15th, 2009 at 9:01 am
[...] this doesn’t seem like quite the right breed, maybe another of the 10 Best Family Dogs would suit [...]
January 19th, 2009 at 2:49 pm
I have been breeding Weimaraners for 4 years, and my husband has had experience with them for many, many more years. Our dogs are gentle and kind hearted, and love to hang out inside with us and watch TV. With the exception of one pup that was too rowdy for children, all of them have been great with kids, including infants. They are also very good guard dogs. They are pretty active when they are outside, so they need a big yard, although my son has one as an apartment dog, and he does just fine with a regular run on a walking trail or at the park. We have 3 Weimies, 2 Dacshunds, a big black Lab, and 5 cats, and they all get along just fine, but in general, they are not especially friendly to dogs that show up outside our fence. Inside, they don’t shed much and they enjoy staying clean. They are incredibly smart and easy to train. Like Labs and Goldens, they mature slowly, taking 2 or 3 years to develop completely mature behavior.
January 25th, 2009 at 8:01 am
[...] mellow Briard is on his best behavior when his small caretaker wants to take him for a [...]
February 20th, 2009 at 7:01 am
[...] are wonderful dogs and are especially good with children. However, you have to be prepared for lots of drool if you own a member of this [...]
March 2nd, 2009 at 10:31 am
We are looking for a family pet. A medium sized dog that is friendly and protective. We have a five year old who frequently has friends over. Maybe a baby in the near future. I would like a dog that can socialize with other dogs as well as family guests. Are there any breeds that are low on the drooling and shedding? We are looking at labs. What other suggestions do you have?
March 7th, 2009 at 8:01 am
[...] love this shot of a Chocolate Lab up [...]
March 10th, 2009 at 7:56 am
Great article. Love your blog. I own a Vizsla and a Blue Weimaraner. You can see them on my blog a lot.:-)
March 29th, 2009 at 7:01 am
[...] Newfy is a bit hesitant about the “new friend” sitting on his [...]
March 30th, 2009 at 7:15 am
I love this list, many of the breeds on here may be a surprise for some. My co worker asked me what kind of dogs are good with kids and family and I told her some of the breeds you listed, she didn’t believe me that a mastiff, staffy, or bull dog would be good with kids because of their size, or rep. Good list you have here!
April 5th, 2009 at 1:40 am
These are all good breads. Don’t forget that many “mutts” in the shelters also make wonderful companions for kids and families!!
April 9th, 2009 at 3:10 am
I had a golden retriver for 12 years who passed away last year…They are great dogs but the one i had was aggressive and was very protective dog when it came to his family.
April 10th, 2009 at 1:40 pm
They are all wonderful dogs, but I think dalmations and wheaton terriors are the best family dogs.
May 6th, 2009 at 10:49 am
I learned a lot from this post - I’m thinking of adopting a friend’s dog, a mutt, so she’s not falling into any of the breed categories you describe. But it was interesting to read how you described the good “family” qualities of the breeds. I believe this dog I may adopt does have the qualities of loyalty and gentleness. I wonder how easy she’ll be to train, though. Any suggestions on good training DVDs?
May 14th, 2009 at 8:01 am
[...] Newfoundland puppy poses in [...]
May 16th, 2009 at 12:27 am
If you ever have the erge to feel LOVED, get a Boxer. We have 2 (the boys) with great all around personalities, there’s a time to play, a time to kick back & a time to just get lovin. excellent watch dogs, fantastic with kids of any age, they really think that there human at times, short hair, normally loves any water, they love to play, some can be pretty sloppy kissers & there love is unconditional, better then some relationships. the Boxer is my choice got the past 40 yrs.
May 16th, 2009 at 9:26 am
Our children grew up with a Keeshound named Keesha. This breed is a great dog for a family and especially children. She alerted us to strangers in the yard at night. She even chased thieves up the street. She woke us to an unexplained open door during a storm. She was the “nanny” in our household as well and when the baby would cry or even move, she would alert us. Very protective of her children/family. She would wait for the boys’ school bus to arrive at the corner of our street (how she knew the time was beyond me)and then greet them happily while walking them home. She always got between strangers and the children. She picked up on our changing family routine quickly. Good breed to train, very smart and with alot of patience, love and understanding became one of our family. She lived to become 13 years old and is greatly missed.
May 16th, 2009 at 10:59 am
The best kids dog bar none…. Smooth Fox Terrier, hands down. Some of the breeds mentioned above I would trust at all, and I have shown dogs for many years so I am familiar with each breeds temperament. Smooths don’t shed much, they are very active so they keep themselves in shape. When they come inside they calm down and become couch potatoes. I have bred Golden Retrievers for more than 20 yrs and I always recommend Smooths!!
May 16th, 2009 at 12:39 pm
I had a yorkie/sheltie mix.looked like a small Benjie. She was sweet tempered and loved everyone. Well mannered in the house. She trained well. It took a little while to get her trained /6mo. but at the 6mo. she was as good as gold.
May 16th, 2009 at 12:41 pm
I have raised Rhodesian Ridgebacks for close to 20 years. They are very clean, short haired dogs. They are very gentle around children. Raised 3 girls with them. They love to be with their people. They are VERY loyal and VERY protective, making them excellent protection/guard dogs. These are dogs that walk the walk and talk the talk,so to speak. I have seen them act as baby sitters while camping or similar activities often frustrating their “kids” by not letting them stray. I have also seen them protect, you don’t want to be a bad guy around my place. Another aspect I love about them is they rarely bark. They are known as the silent hunter so if they are barking there is a reason, go check it out. Ridgies are very smart and can get bored sometimes turning to destruction or escape. Being hounds they do love to roam following scent, so be sure your area is secure. They can be intimidating because they have piercing amber eyes and the ridge of hair down their back, one might think they are aggressive. Well you would be right, especially if you are a bad guy or not properly introduced. They seem to read people well and know if you are up to no-good. I rely on that trait frequently, if my dogs don’t like you then there is probably good reason. Mine regularly play with all the nieghborhood kids, jumping on the trampoline and getting sprayed with the waterhose. VERY HAPPY DOGS.
May 16th, 2009 at 2:01 pm
Recommend Australian Shepherds. They are loving and loyal, always wanting to do your bidding and eager to learn. Don’t take a heavy hand, just consistant training. Have a two year old and an eleven year old Newfoundland Cross. Both are very gentle with the grandchildren to the point that the little ones can walk them on leash and obey the commands.
May 16th, 2009 at 4:58 pm
As an owner of a Bernese Mountain dogs, what is said above it so true. My baby jack may be pretty large, which intidmidates some, but he’s always SO happy and loves to greet people with his ‘hugs’(aka almost jumping on people, and although he means well we’re trying to calm him down.
May 16th, 2009 at 5:23 pm
When I saw Newfoundlands were on the list, I wasn’t surprised.Our Newf, Molly was a wonderful member of our family for 11 years.You must be prepared to handle a giant dog because like our Molly who was 160 lbs.they grow before your eyes and are very strong.We needed a van to take her to the vet and a large yard.As for Newfs and children, when my twins were born there was never, ever a second that we worried about her being with the babies.She was an exceptional pet.
So if you have children , patience ( with drooling and grooming) ,room and love–get a Newf!
May 16th, 2009 at 9:43 pm
Golden retrievers are very good dogs. They love to play and are around kids if trained properly. I recommend them highly to anyone who wants a family dog. We have two, and they have good personalities
May 16th, 2009 at 9:48 pm
My boyfriend and I are also owners of a Bernese Mountain Dog, Charlie. He is on the smaller side for this breed, but I do not mind. I also have to agree with everthing posted about this breed. If you are looking for a loyal canine companion, A bernese should be considered an option. My Charlie likes long walks and socializing and he loves kids. If you are looking for a guard dog I would consider looking at other breeds, the Bernese is just to friendly and social.
May 17th, 2009 at 2:01 am
hey, a good list, but you overlooked one of the best>>>>the “boxer”! We had one when I was a toddler, went to his “house” and chewed on his beef bone, my mom said he just sat there with a sad face…almost the same happened with my own kids! Have had many different breeds, as I’m a grandma now, but he was one of the best, and almost immediately “housetrained”, he did it by himself and was only 2 months old! Not messy at all, and the kids could ride on him, also protective of them! Quite safe for children.
May 17th, 2009 at 2:23 am
I would recommend a German Shepherd. These are the boy scouts of the dog world. Obedient, Loyal, True Blue and absolutely obsessed with protecting children from danger. Take a German Shepherd to the beach and watch what happens if very small children try to go into the water. Without training a German Shepherd will instinctively try to herd any child out of the water, just like its shepherding ancestors would herd sheep away from dangerous places. German Shepherds where bred to “protect the flock” so they are suspicious of strangers, but they understand that any child - stranger or not, is not a threat to their family. Their combination of obedience and intelligence that made them the first “seeing eye dogs” makes them the dog of choice for most modern service-dog jobs and also makes them great family pets.
May 17th, 2009 at 2:38 am
You are joking about the staffordshire bull terrier as a great dog for children, right? Maybe when they rip off a child’s or your ear or kill another dog, cat, in front of the child or you…yes great family pet! Under no circumstances should this animal be on a child friendly list.
May 17th, 2009 at 10:04 am
I, personally, don’t think poodles are that great of dogs. All of the ones I’ve met are aggressive to my dogs. There’s not a problem with my dogs, they are raised very well, except, one of them is still a puppy. The puppy is 2yo. and is a Lab mix. The older one is a lab/collie/australian sheppard/dingo/ dalmation. She is 10yo. I think that the title “mutts” should be an addition to the list.
May 17th, 2009 at 12:01 pm
Hi abby,
Thanks for your comment! I completely agree that rescuing a Mutt is a fantastic option. However, because all mixed breeds are different, it’s impossible to discuss their personality traits within a post. Families should seek out mixes that include “child friendly” breeds and ask the advice of helpful shelter workers. Make sure to bring the entire family along to meet the dog at least once as the pooch is going to be a part of your life for a long time!
-Dan
May 18th, 2009 at 1:50 pm
Above as you can see “concerned” writes a horrible comment on my breed, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. It is obvious that “concerned” has never met a Stafford.
I wrote the Dog Guide piece. I have never had a stafford attack anyone or another animal in 32 years. I have no clue where this person had gotten this perception of the “Nanny Dog” but I can guess its a media infused opinion. Again, from someone who has obviously never met a Stafford let alone researched anything about them.
“Concerned” are you aware that the Stafford is a small compact breed weighing less than a Bulldog? That the Stafford tops out at 16 inches, about the size of a cocker spaniel, height-wise?
Let me add as well that the Stafford is NOT related to the pitbull or Amstaff, but in fact those breeds were created at the turn of the century (1900) by americans who wanted to make the Stafford a larger working dog. So a hundred years ago, the Stafford was used to create these dogs, not vice versa, and is no way related to either of them at this point or in the last century. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is esssentially a pure-bred, rare breed here in the US, with AKC registrations topping about 375 each of the past few years. Comments like this speak of terrible breed racism and sound a bit PETA-esque, or in layman’s terms, paranoid and delusional.
May 18th, 2009 at 4:26 pm
To “Concerned” - In regards to your statement about Staffordshire Bulls I can only say maybe you did not have a purebred Staffy Bull! Actually no matter what type of Bully breed you had Pitbull, Staffy Bull or Am Staff if it was agressive towards people it is the owners fault not the breed! What did YOU do to make the dog behave that way?! I have owned and bred staffords for 16 years and I’m the first to say if one of my dogs is acting aggressive towards people for no reason and has grown up in a good home with proper training then it must be put down because this is not the breed. Staffy Bulls are YES great with kids that is why they are known as “the Nanny Dog” and PREFER to be around people.
Kim
May 19th, 2009 at 10:46 am
i have a bernese mountain dog and is so pretty and is friendly
June 8th, 2009 at 8:59 pm
my dad has been wanting a bulldog since forever.but i did have a golden Retriever he was the sweetest dog.I do have a beagle and she is a wonderful dog!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
June 11th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
Oh my gosh Concerned! You are so incredibly misinformed! staffys and american pit bull terriers are AMAZING family pets! I have a 16 month old son and a three year old american pit bull terrier. They LOVE each other and I’ve owned goldens, labs, springer spaniels, border collies and a maltese. This dog is my favorite and I would recommend it over the others in a heart beat!
June 13th, 2009 at 12:00 am
we have a beagle she can be protective and then a loving dog!!!!even thoght she does dig holes she is the most funniest dog ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
June 16th, 2009 at 8:21 am
My family had many dogs over the years. Currently they have Boxers. You’ll need a big yard and lots of energy to keep up with this breed. Also is protective of property and the family.
But of all of the breeds the German Shepherd the Bull Mastiff are my favorites. Both are loving, loyal and very protective of family. Do Not like strangers. The Bull Mastiff is special beyond anything we expected. He was like a person, understood when you talked to him. He would give us a nip on the butt as he walked by. As if to say “Hey, what’s up?”. Great Apartment dog, they’re happy to just lay around all day. But Obedience Training A MUST, as soon as you get them home. They’re BIG and extremely smart. Need to learn who’s boss ASAP, cause in 8 or 9 months they will outweigh you. Tug-a-War not recommended. No pools or boat rides, they can’t swim. Due to their mass, they’ll sink like a rock. Caution feeding bones. Will swallow things whole. That includes my Scrunchy one afternoon. With all that to consider, they’re Great with kids. I’d love to have another one. They’re an awesome breed of dogs!!