Preparing to welcome a furbaby into your home and already have some human babies or kids living with you? You might be curious about the best dog breeds for children.
With so many dog breeds to choose from, it can be tricky narrowing down your decision to just one. To help make the process a little easier, we’ve put together a handy guide. Below, you’ll find some of the breeds that get along best with kids, as well as some tips for picking out your family’s new fluffball.
What to look for in the best dog breeds for children
Before you start sniffing out your new family member, there are a few things to keep in mind. This will help ensure you find the very best dog for your family. From personality and size to exercise and medical requirements, think about what kind of pupper would suit your family’s needs.
Size
Size is a huge consideration, especially if you’ve got a baby or toddler at home. While they usually mean well, big dogs can be intimidating to small children. Plus, they may inadvertently knock your kids over from time to time.
In saying that, size isn’t always the best way to determine the right family dog. Numerous big breeds are very docile and relaxed, while some small breeds can be pretty full-on.
Age
Age is another important factor to consider. On one hand, a puppy will grow with your family and adapt to your routine. But, puppies can be trickier in the early stages, as they require obedience and potty training.
On the other hand, older dogs usually have a handle on using the bathroom and (hopefully) obeying basic commands. However, they’ll have already settled into a temperament and routine of their own. This means they might take a bit longer to adjust to a new environment.
Personality
Think about what kind of temperament would suit your family. Some breeds are highly social, while others may only stay loyal to one or two family members. A few breeds are stubborn and difficult to train, but several are among the most obedient dog breeds.
Although, while there are distinct characteristics of each dog breed, often the more subtle personality traits come down to the individual dog. This is why a meet and greet is pretty crucial. By getting to know your prospective doggo, you’ll be better able to gauge whether they’re the right fit.
Temperament is also key if you’ve got other pets in the home. Calmer dogs are better with cats, for example, while high-energy dogs might be too much for your kitty to handle.
Exercise requirements
This is a big one. Bigger dog breeds usually require more exercise – sometimes up to two or three walks per day. Smaller breeds, however, may only need one walk per day or a good run around the garden. Think about your family’s lifestyle and what best suits your own activity levels.
Remember that even if you don’t always have time to walk your dog, there’s help at hand. Engaging a local Dog Walker can be a really helpful move, especially if you pick a breed that requires a little more exercise than you’d like!
Ongoing care and responsibilities
Think about how much time you can dedicate to things like grooming, training, and visits to the vet. Obviously, long-haired breeds will require more regular brushing than short-haired breeds. Although, the latter does tend to shed more, which may demand more vacuuming. Some breeds take to training quickly, while others take a little longer.
Different breeds also have their own health requirements and risk of contracting certain conditions. Some are prone to eye problems, while others are more likely to develop issues with their bones and joints. Regardless of the breed you pick, taking out pet insurance can help if you eventually need to regularly take your dog to the vet.
What are the best dog breeds for children?
There are lots of things to consider before committing to a particular breed. However, there are a few dog breeds that are generally pretty fantastic for families. Without further ado, here are our picks of the best dog breeds for children.
Retrievers
Whether it’s a Labrador Retriever or a Golden Retriever, these majestic breeds make for great family pets. They’re both kind-natured, loyal, patient, and excellent with kids. Golden Retrievers tend to be especially loving. We’ve no doubt they’ll warm up to your family pretty quickly.
Just note that both breeds require lots of exercise. A big home and garden is ideal, as are kids who are willing to run around with your doggo!
Poodles (and Poodle Crosses)
Poodles are renowned for being highly intelligent, but they’re also friendly, sweet, and loyal dogs. Their smarts make them easy to train. And, they’ll always jump at the chance to partake in some mental (or physical) stimulation if your kids are willing to give it to them.
The same usually goes for Poodle Crosses, like Cavoodles, Sheepadoodles, Moodles, Groodles, and Labradoodles. Plus, with a cross breed, you’ll be getting all the advantages of a Poodle mixed with the best parts of other dog breeds.
Bulldogs
As you might expect, Bulldogs are relaxed, easygoing, and even-tempered dogs. Not much seems to rouse them, making them great with younger kids. They’re also incredibly loyal and will quickly become part of the family.
French Bulldogs in particular are ideal for apartments, as they don’t need a lot of exercise. That doesn’t mean they’re not playful, though! A French Bulldog will very much enjoy a bit of rough and tumble with your kids.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Aside from being utterly adorable (those big bug eyes and floppy ears!) Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are social, loving, gentle, and lively dogs. If you welcome one into your home, they’re bound to get along well with every member of your family.
And, despite its small size, this breed is chock full of energy, which makes it a fun companion for kids.
Alaskan Malamutes
These gentle giants are great with kids, mainly because they’re patient, loving, and always up for a cuddle. But, they also have a playful side. Alaskan Malamutes live for exercise, and will do well with a family who’s happy to keep up with them.
If you’ve got small kids, note that Alaskan Malamutes aren’t always fully aware of their hefty size. They’ve been known to knock little children down, even when they’re puppies. (Yep, these dogs are massive.)
Alaskan Malamutes are also very food motivated. Keeping them busy with their own healthy dog meals will ensure they don’t snatch your children’s snacks!
Pugs
Not just a pretty (squishy) face, pugs are also excellent family pets. They’re gentle and laid back, so they’re ideal for families who love nothing more than snuggling up on the couch. You can routinely expect your pug to join you on the lounge, as they love human companionship.
Pugs are also well suited to smaller living spaces. And, they’re almost always up for a play – especially with kids!
Beagles
Beagles are fun-loving and mischievous, so they get along well with kids who enjoy a good play session. In fact, they’re much like children themselves! Beagles also happen to be sweet-natured and calm, making them particularly fantastic for younger children.
Although, high energy does mean Beagles require lots of exercise. But, if you’re up for it, you’ll be rewarded with a truly lovely family pet.
Mixed Breeds
If you really can’t decide on a particular breed, why not go for a Mixed Breed? Combining the best elements of different breeds, a Mixed Breed is ideal if you want a doggo with a unique personality.
Mixed Breeds are also less likely to develop the genetic disorders associated with purebred dogs. This is handy to know if better resilience towards health problems is something you’re after in your new doggo.
1 comment
Toy Poodle is the best!