Key Takeaways
- Look for dog breeds that are intelligent, trainable, and non-aggressive, with a good temperament and moderate energy level.
- Consider the specific needs of your household when choosing a dog breed, such as the age of your children, the space available, and the activity level of your family.
- Certain breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Poodles are highlighted as excellent choices for families with kids.
The best family dogs get along with children, and have a gentle, patient, and affectionate demeanor that’s suitable for kids of all ages. In theory, almost any dog has the potential to get along great with children, and factors such as obedience training, age, size, and breed type can all affect your chances of finding a good family dog.
In addition to considering breed characteristics, think about the ages and activity levels of your children. Toddlers can be knocked over by an awkward, gangly puppy that does not know their size. Bigger kids could crush a small dog if they are not always careful.
Here are 15 of the best family dogs that have a history of good behavior around children.
Breed Characteristics
Many dog breeds are known to get along well with children. Families with kids typically need an intelligent, trainable dog with a calm temperament and moderate energy. It’s essential for a dog to have a soft mouth, or bite inhibition. Breeds like golden retrievers and Labradors have a naturally gentle mouth from their history as retrievers, trained to not bite down on game. Child-friendly dogs should be non-aggressive and tolerant of some hair pulling and plenty of hugs.
