What are the Best Dog Breeds for Kids?

Though there are many breeds of dogs from tiny tea-cup Poodles to gargantuan Great Danes, there are only a handful of breeds that are good with kids. Whether you want a small, lazy dog or a large dog with spunk, there is a kid-friendly choice available. Besides temperament, it is important to consider the dog's size when choosing the right breed for your family. Small- to medium-sized kid-friendly breeds might be better suited to smaller children, while larger kid-friendly breeds may be a better choice for bigger kids.

  1. Small Dogs

    • Beagle pup

      Surprisingly, small dogs are not always a kid-friendly choice. What these pups lack in size they make up for in attitude. Some smaller dogs tend to be more anxious compared to their larger counterparts, making them more prone to nipping and biting. However, there are some small breeds that are perfect for kids. Beagles, Bichons Frises, Pugs, Shih Tzu, and Pomeranians are just a handful of the smaller breeds which have the personality needed to put up with tail pulling, rough play, and the occasional bite from a teething infant. Moreover, Beagles have an even temperament and actually crave human companionship. This need for human interaction explains why they are continuously ranked as one of the most popular dog breeds in the world.

      Though some terrier breeds tend to be a bit nippy, Boston, Wheaten, Staffordshire Bull, and Norfolk Terriers are even tempered and would also be a welcome addition to your child's home. For example, when the Norfolk Terrier is not chasing vermin from the barn or corralling the hamster back into its cage, he is snuggling with his family. At 9 inches, he is truly pint-sized and kid friendly.

    Medium Dogs

    • Collie

      The Keeshond, Bulldog, Collie, Australian Shepherd, and Whippet are just five of the many medium-sized breeds with a temperament to fit a family with small children. These dogs are the perfect size for families with kids because they are large enough not to be stepped on by a rambunctious toddler, but not so large that they will knock over the toddler who's just learning to walk. Though Whippets are very active and need plenty of exercise, they feel right at home lounging with the family on the couch, or snuggling with your child on his/her bed. Collies are also a common kid-friendly choice. Not only are Collies renowned for their gentle nature, they are also extremely intelligent.

    Large Dogs

    • Boxer

      Boxers, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Golden and Labrador Retrievers, and Newfoundlands are the right fit for parents who want their children to have a large dog as a pet. Though some of these dogs tend to be a bit rambunctious, this trait also makes them more playful. They are also fiercely loyal and protective. In fact, Boxers have been known to chorale small children away from steep steps, and protect them from predators. If you have older children, as opposed to toddlers or pre-schoolers, then a larger breed may be right for you. It is recommended that you avoid large dog breeds if you have small children, as they may unintentionally harm them due to their size.

    Conclusion