Big Dogs That Are Good With Kids

Safer Pet warns us to be careful not to stereotype dog breeds. How a dog is raised plays a large role in how safe it is with children. Enrolling your dog in training courses can teach your dog good behavior, too. And remember that very large dog breeds such as Great Danes are often clumsy as they grow into adults, and could potentially fall on a small child. Like human children, big dogs need time to adjust to their changing bodies.

  1. Golden Retriever

    • Golden retrievers are usually quite friendly and playful. They love to be around people, and are eager to please. As Just Dog Breeds says, this makes them easy to train, and often good companions for children. Their soft, thick fur makes them extra hug-able as well.

    Collie

    • Collies are extremely calm dogs, patiently putting up with energetic children. When treated well, a collie will usually remain a wonderful friend for growing children. Always monitor children around even the calmest dogs, ensuring that they don't cause the animal discomfort by pulling on their fur or jumping on them.

    Labrador Retriever

    • Labradors are energetic and friendly dogs, as Safer Pets says, making them great playmates for children. As kids grow, Labradors will jump and play with them, their boundless energy keeping kids active. Playing with an energetic, good-natured dog such as a Labrador will also encourage kids to spend more time outside.

    Poodle

    • According to the Pet Place, Poodles are great dogs for families. Like Labradors, they are active, so they need plenty of exercise, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). Poodles need regular grooming by a professional, adds the AKC; so teach kids to brush the Poodle carefully and often, too, in order to keep its fur from getting tangled.

    Bloodhound

    • Bloodhounds tend to be gentle, even-tempered dogs that are good with children, as Just Dog Breeds says. However, their large size can make them clumsy around young children, as the website adds, and sometimes they determinedly try to follow a scent. Thus, they're best for children who aren't very young. Set clear rules about who may walk the dog so he doesn't end up walking your children.

    German Shepherd

    • German Shepherds often do well with children, and their high intelligence makes them easy to train, according to Just Dog Breeds. As with other breeds, reinforce good behavior every day and make sure that your energetic shepherd gets enough exercise, while monitoring the dog around children.

    Newfoundland

    • Newfoundlands are huge dogs that will have a long, awkward period as they grow into their adult size. Thus, as with other very large dogs, you must consider whether your family is ready for a dog of this size. However, Newfoundlands are bred to be water rescue dogs, and older children will love playing in ponds or streams with these friendly, furry giants.

    St. Bernard

    • St. Bernards are also rescue dogs, saving people who became lost or trapped in snow. They aren't especially playful, as 5 Star Dog says, but they are gentle and patient with children. As with other large breeds, they will be clumsy as they grow up. However, a St. Bernard will grow up to be a loyal, protective family dog.

    Mixed Breeds

    • Mixed-breed dogs come in limitless shapes and sizes, and often they display the best characteristics of several breeds. When considering a mixed-breed dog, find out what breeds are in its background and their characteristics. As with any breed, select one that is calm and friendly, paying as much attention to the individual dog's personality as to the breed(s).