There’s no question that kids are practically born asking when can they get a puppy. Most watch films like 101 Dalmations or Lassie and realize that they are missing out on a fun-loving companion who is with them always. Picking a dog for your family really depends on the dynamic. Some kids are inclined to go sprinting off at the playground, which is perfect for some dog breeds, and other kids just want to relax, which is just what some big dog breeds love to do. It’s a good when there is a combination of both relaxation and high energy activities for dogs. These are the top selections for dogs if you have kids.
1. Golden Retriever
The golden retriever is possibly one of the smartest, friendliest dogs you will ever meet. Kind and loyal, these retrievers don’t have any aggressive or shy habits of other dog breeds, and they are also very patient, which makes a perfect package for most kids. Golden retrievers do need a lot of play and exercise, so it’s best if you are an active family who loves to get out and go to parks. However, some days golden retrievers are inclined to take naps like everyone else.
2. Labrador Retriever
A popular dog breed around the world, but especially in America, the Labrador Retriever is another patient, fun-loving dog breed with a nose for protection. The sweet disposition of labrador retrievers make them excellent playmates for kids of all ages.
3. Poodle
The poodle is another extremely smart dog with a lot of energy. However, it’s also a gentle and sweet-natured canine. If you have kids with allergies or if you have allergies yourself, you don’t have to worry as poodles don’t shed and have hypo-allergic hair. Poodles do need some extra attention for grooming as their curly hair can get tangled and dirty. Elegant and graceful, the energy in a poodle will match any kid who loves to play for hours outside.
4. Irish Setter
If you have energetic kids in your house, the Irish Setter is definitely the dog breed for you. With a gorgeous coat, regal disposition and social personality, the Irish Setter is a pup with a lot of spunk. However, it’s also one of the more easily trained dogs on this list. It’s best if you have a yard as Irish Setters love to run and be outside.
5. The Newfoundland
Children often get into trouble and need a big brother. The Newfoundland is the perfect canine for that role. Often called “Nature’s Babysitter,” the Newfoundland is a kid-friendly and loyal companion who has a nose for protection. Sweet yet quite large, the Newfoundland needs some open space to run, but it’s primarily an indoor dog. Grooming will be a daily necessity as the lovable Newfoundlands needs to be brushed and tend to drool.
6. The Vizsla
While you probably haven’t heard of the Vizsla before, it’s one of the most beautiful dog breeds on our list. Active and sleek, the Vizsla has an energetic disposition but is also quite gentle, which is perfect for smaller children. Confident, smart and easily trained, Vizslas tends to create close bands with the family. One of the best things is that Vizslas don’t tend to have a “dog” smell.
7. The Collie
For those families who have seen the movie Lassie, the Collie is the perfect mix of gentle, kind, smart and energy that you need for a kid’s companion. With long flowing hair in colorful tans and stark whites, Collies are known for being people pleasers. They absolutely love attention, but they are intelligent and easily trained. Collies do have a tendency to herd because that was what they were made for. If you notice your collie trying to herd your child, it will probably be funny at first, but it shouldn’t be encouraged. Grooming is also important for collies because of their long hair.
8. The Beagle
A family favorite is the beagle. While these dogs were made for hunting, they are perfect fits for homes with active children. They are sturdy and always up for a game, but they also like to just relax. Friendly, happy and trainable, beagles also get along with other pets quite because of their easygoing disposition. They do require brushing every once in a while and will shed, so you should be prepared for grooming.
9. The Bull Terrier
Many people have misconceptions about this terrier. For one, they think it’s aggressive, but actually the bull terrier breed was created for companionship. Friendly and social towards adults and kids, the bull terrier is quite patient and has a lot of energy to burn off. In fact, they require lots of playtime, which means larger families will do better with these types of dogs. Affectionate and quite loyal, they have a tendency to be protective of children.
10. The Bull Dog
For small kids and a less active family, the bull dog is an amiable, loyal and sweet canine with a lot of personality. These dogs are fun to roll around with, cuddle and roughhouse with, but they won’t be the most energetic at the dog park. However, some bull dogs will surprise you with their energy levels especially in younger years. These dogs are also great for small apartments or larger homes.
11. Shih-Tzu
For a cute, small dog breed, the shih-tzu is incredible with children. Shih-tzu means “lion dog” in Chinese, which is a little bit strange given its size. However, these dogs are ideal for kids because they are lively, alert and smart. They never snap and have a strong personality that’s fearless. With a luxurious coat, it will take some time to groom and take care of shih-tzu’s properly.
12. Havanese
The Havanese is a wonderful, easygoing dog breed that’s the national dog of Cuba. It’s the only native breed to the Caribbean island and it has a fluffy coat that keeps them cool in the heat. Since it’s a non-shedding dog, it’s also perfect for kids and parents with allergies. The Havanese is one of the most loyal and well-behaved dogs you will ever meet. They make a great companion with their medium size and also love to be watch dogs.
13. The French Bulldog
Much like the other bull dog on our list, the French bullie is a clown. These dogs love to play and tease, but they are not snappy or prone to biting. Small but vivacious, you’ll get a ton of play out of these dogs, and they have a fearless personality for adventure.
14. Miniature Schnauzer
If you’re looking for a smart, smaller dog, miniature schnauzers make this list because of their outgoing and protective nature. They are inclined to be sweet dogs, but they can be shy if not socialized early on. Due to their size and temperament, the mini schnauzer is very versatile and can fit in nicely in smaller apartments or large homes. They also shed very little.
15. Yorkshire Terrier
Last but not least, the Yorkie is an energetic, fun-loving pal with a lot of heart. Yorkshires are very active and intelligent, and they also like to joke around. They can be a little bit aggressive during play, so it’s best to start training them early and get kids involved so that they are well socialized.
