Many parents ask which breed of dog would be the best for their family. Kids love dogs and most dogs love kids, but there are some dogs that generally do better around children than others. You have to admit, kids are curious and at times a little rough which is why having a dog who’s tolerable around them is important. Other great qualities in a dog that will be around children include low to no aggression, not overly powerful as to accidently hurt your child while playing, and a warm and loving demeanor. You also do not want a breed of dog that doesn’t want to be “bothered” because many kids just want to play, play, and play some more! If you are considering a family pet and you have children this blog is for you. Below you will find our pick of the top five dog breeds that do great around children.
Labrador Retriever
Year after year after year the Labrador Retriever ranks the most “pupular” dog in the United States. This breed is simply amazing and ranks number one in our kid friendly and mom approved list of dogs. They are loving, caring, social, and have very approachable demeanors. They love your attention and are gentle around children.
Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:
- Personality: Friendly, gentle and playful
- Energy Level: Moderately active
- Good with Children: Very
- Good with Other Dogs: Very
- Shedding: Moderate
- Grooming: Daily brushing
- Trainability: With ease
- Height: 21 to 25 inches tall at maturity
- Weight: 55 to 80 pounds at maturity
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
- Barking Level: Average
French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is at the top of our list for many reasons. They are a very gentle and affectionate breed of dog that does exceptionally well with children. They are patient and loving and enjoy to play. They are not overly energetic or pushy which is why they are safe for smaller children. They almost never show signs of aggression and enjoy both indoor and outdoor playtime. This breed continues to be very popular around the world and makes a great fit into almost any family.
Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:
- Personality: Loving, playful, gentle, and smart.
- Energy Level: Lower than average
- Good with Children: Very
- Good with other Dogs: Very
- Shedding: Low
- Grooming: Two to three brushes a week
- Trainability: With ease
- Height: 11-13 inches at maturity
- Weight: 20-30 pounds at maturity
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
- Barking Level: Low
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever was designed for those who wanted a medium-sized dog that would do well in wild-fowling, both upland game and waterfowl. Today’s Golden Retriever is a sought-after gorgeous dog that does well in families that have children and other pets in the home. They are very social and gentle dogs that have an easygoing and warm demeanor. They enjoy being close to their family and are great around children. They almost never show signs of aggression and are a pleasure to be around.
Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:
- Personality: Smart, easy to get along with and caring
- Energy Level: Moderately active
- Good with Children: Very
- Good with other Dogs: Very
- Shedding: Average
- Grooming: Daily brushing
- Trainability: With ease
- Height: 21 to 24 inches tall at maturity
- Weight: 55 to 75 pounds at maturity
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
- Barking Level: Average
Pug
The small but mighty Pug also ranks high on our list because of his playful, loving, and warm demeanor. This breed has a social and outgoing personality and packs a lot of energy in a small body. The Pug does great around children because of this and is not known to show aggression. Their tolerance level allows them to play well with children who are still learning how to be around dogs.
Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:
- Personality: Outgoing, curious, and playful
- Energy Level: Moderately active
- Good with Children: Good
- Good with Other Dogs: Good
- Shedding: Routinely
- Grooming: Two to four times a week
- Trainability: Generally easy
- Height: 10-13 inches tall at maturity
- Weight: 14-18 pounds at maturity
- Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
- Barking Level: Average
Collie
Collies are very smart and energetic dogs that love human interaction and outdoor activity time. They are gentle and patient around children and are not known to be at all aggressive. This breed has a very long history of making a marvelous family pet and is sure to win your heart too. Collies also tend to be able to adapt well with other dogs in the home.
Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:
- Personality: Caring, alert and playful
- Energy Level: Very active
- Good with Children: Very
- Good with Other Dogs: Yes
- Shedding: Moderate
- Grooming: Two to four brushes a week
- Trainability: Easily trained
- Height: 22-26 inches tall at maturity
- Weight: 50-75 pounds at maturity
- Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
- Barking Level: Moderate
