Adding a four-legged friend into the family is a great way to bolster your bond and relationship with one another! While it is true that all dogs make great companions, there are only a few dog breeds that best fit a family with kids. Dog breeds that are better suited for families with kids are referred to as family dogs.
A family dog can help foster your children’s sense of compassion, responsibility, and cooperation—all the while being a great playmate in and out of the household. Before buying or adopting a dog (we highly recommend the latter!), keep in mind that some dogs are better as playmates for energetic, older children. In contrast, some have gentle, peaceful dispositions fitter for the little ones.
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Household situations may vary, but these kid-friendly breeds are a great starting point for your adoption search:
Labrador Retriever
This dog breed is one of the most popular breeds in the United States because of its friendly, warm, and loyal disposition. Thanks to their versatility, a Labrador Retriever can be your children’s lapdog and outdoor playmate.
Expect to receive lots of cuddles and attention from a Labrador Retriever. This dog would not stop showing its high energy levels and eagerness to play all day!
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Barking Level: Medium
Golden Retriever
A crowd-favourite, the Golden Retriever is valued as one of the most incredible family dogs since time immemorial. This dog breed is a fast learner that requires a lot of physical stimulation, making it perfect for a family with older, active kids. With its trainability comes versatility, intelligence, and a loving personality.
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Barking Level: Only barks when the situation calls for it
French Bulldog
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If your family lives in a cosy, humble apartment, then this dog breed is an ideal choice. Keep your children preoccupied with an easygoing four-legged fur baby to teach them companionship and leadership. The French Bulldog is famous among city dwellers because of its relatively small size and irresistible features. Plus, it’s highly trainable, too!
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Barking Level: Quiet
Collie
The Collie is “intelligence” and “sweetness” wrapped in an adorable four-legged creature. Famed for its herding skills, the Collie is a loyal, affectionate, and sweet dog, making it a great companion dog for small children who love cuddling, as well as adults who fancy outdoor adventures. Collie has a knack for being close with children. That is why we’re pretty sure your kids will adore this dog breed!
Life expectancy: 12-14 years
Barking Level: Upfront and vocal
Newfoundland
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This gentle giant has everything you will ever want in a pet dog—it is intelligent, loyal, compassionate, and sweet. This dog breed will go to great lengths to accompany its master, fulfill necessary commands and tasks, and rescue you in an emergency. It has gained its reputation as a “nanny dog” because of its watchful and patient disposition. If you have enough space in your home, a Newfoundland will surely capture your children’s hearts.
Life expectancy: 9-10 years
Barking level: Only barks when the situation calls for it
I am a dog enthusiast and writer from Los Angeles, California in the United States. I manage Dog Embassy, a website that aims to provide dog parents information about eight nutrition, exercise, and accessories for their furry friends.
