25 Kid-Friendly Dog Breeds That Are Ideal for Your Growing Family
Thinking of adding a puppy to your growing family? Make sure you go with a kid-friendly dog breed. Not all canines are, shall we say, enthusiastic about children. Kid-friendly breeds tend to be active, obedient and affectionate. These animals will thrive on family outings, eagerly learn commands and happily share their space with family members. Avoid breeds known for their stubbornness, independence or aloof personalities, as these breeds may need more space than a kid is willing to give.
How Owning Pets Can Benefit Kids
First and foremost, pet ownership can boost a child’s physical well-being. Studies show that introducing kids to animals early on decreases their chances of having allergies later in life. In fact, pets have been known to boost the entire immune system, making ear infections and respiratory illnesses less likely. Plus, a dog needs to walk and run. Adults and children alike will get outdoors and engage in physical activity more often when there’s a pup who needs to go out.
On the mental health side, dogs can be incredibly comforting presences in a kid’s life. Therapy dogs help people of all ages by soothing anxiety, boosting confidence in those with Autism, providing companionship and so much more. Beyond these specific circumstances, dogs teach children what it means to follow through on responsibilities, respect boundaries and have patience.
How to choose the right breed
Choosing a dog breed for your family is not a task to take lightly. Yes, it’s fun! Yes, it’s exciting! No, you don’t want to have buyer’s remorse. Before you even begin researching breeds (which you absolutely should do), take inventory of your household. A few questions to ask yourselves are:
How much indoor space do we have?
How much outdoor space do we have?
How much of our budget are we willing to dedicate to a dog?
How much time are we willing to dedicate to grooming, walking, training and playing with the dog?
How much shedding are we willing to put up with?
If your family has decided to adopt a dog from a shelter, these questions get more specific and more important. Shelter dogs—especially older ones who have lived lives before arriving at the shelter—are much less predictable than purebred canines bought from a reputable breeder. Even breeds known for their docile, doting dispositions could have poor reactions to kids if they had a bad experience in a previous home. So, ask as many questions as you can about the dog’s background, breed (if known), observed behavior, health status, vaccination status and adoption history.
Finally, remember every dog is an individual. While most Labrador Retrievers are outgoing, there are exceptions to every rule, and you may come across one who isn’t fond of strangers. Don’t rely solely on breed standards when getting to know your new pet.
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1. Labrador Retriever
Height: 21-25 inches
Weight: 55-80 pounds
Personality: Outgoing, Fun-loving
Activity Level: High
Shedding Factor: High
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Labrador Retrievers are ideal family dogs. They have long been touted as excellent therapy dogs, too, which means they’re smart, obedient and adaptable. Labs are not pets for homebodies. These canines need plenty of outdoor time and fresh ways to exercise, mentally and physically. Include them on family outings and get ready to vacuum up lots of hair (their short coats shed constantly). Labs also gel well with other dogs, in case you want a second (or third).
2. Newfoundland
Height: 26-28 inches
Weight: 100-150 pounds
Personality: Friendly, Loving
Activity Level: Moderate
Shedding Factor: Moderate to High
Life Expectancy: 9-10 years
Newfoundlands are giant dogs (up to 150 pounds!) who are as big as they are chill. They know how to relax and hardly ever bark. Newfies have friendly yet protective personalities, which means they’ll happily greet new people, but will usually put your family first. Prepare yourself for lots of drool and seasonal shedding. (Weekly brushing will help control all that fur.)
3. Beagle
Height: 10-15 inches
Weight: 15-30 pounds
Personality: Friendly, Doting
Activity Level: Moderate
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 10-15 years
Now, if you’re planning on creating a multi-pet household, a beagle is one dog that gets along well with cats. Since they were bred to hunt in packs, companionship comes naturally to them. They’re playful hounds who enjoy having a job to do, which could be simply playing fetch with the kiddos. As long as it’s interactive, your beagle will be as happy as a clam.
4. Boxer
Height: 21-25 inches
Weight: 50-80 pounds
Personality: Active, Playful
Activity Level: High
Shedding Factor: Low to Moderate
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Boxers are playful, energetic watchdogs who love kids and social outings. A huge bonus is their short, sleek coat that requires very little maintenance. Their energy is bountiful, so training commands early and using them often is ideal. In fact, get used to the phrase, “Get down,” if you own a boxer. These dogs love being in on the action, which could be overwhelming for very tiny kids.
5. Border Collie
Height: 18 - 22 inches
Weight: 30 - 55 pounds
Personality: Energetic, Smart
Activity Level: High
Shedding Factor: Seasonal
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
As one of the smartest dog breeds out there, the Border Collie is quick to learn commands and eager to prove how well they retain orders. They’re medium-sized and well-suited for family life. Their up-for-anything nature means as long as they get a good mental and physical work out during the day, they’ll be ready to snuggle up with you and fall asleep at night.
6. Irish Setter
Height: 25-27 inches
Weight: 60-70 pounds
Personality: Sweet, Social
Activity Level: High
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Say hello to one of the friendliest, smartest, sweetest, most outgoing dogs you’ll ever meet. Not only is the Irish Setter a gorgeous animal with a long, shiny, rust-colored coat, these dogs practically ooze affection. They love to play but don’t take things too far and enjoy calm, contemplative afternoons. Irish Setters just require some brushing throughout the week to keep their coats pristine.
7. Golden Retriever
Height: 21-24 inches
Weight: 55-75 pounds
Personality: Friendly, Devoted
Activity Level: Moderate to High
Shedding Factor: High
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
When you look up “family dog” in the dictionary, there might as well be a photo of a Golden Retriever. These dogs are excellent options for first-time dog owners and canine experts alike. Yes, they shed like their lives depend on it, but it’s worth it for a pet who loves unconditionally and knows how to play well with kids and other pets. Training comes easily, too, as they’re intelligent and eager to please.
8. Greyhound
Height: 27-30 inches
Weight: 60-70 pounds
Personality: Independent, Gentle
Activity Level: Moderate to High
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 10-13 years
Greyhounds are gentle creatures for more laid-back broods. These tall, lanky dogs enjoy jaunts around town and a sprint through the park, but when at home they are content to relax amidst any chaos whirling around them. Though Greyhounds enjoy some playtime, they are less eager to engage in games than Goldens or Labs.
9. Bulldog
Height: 14 - 15 inches
Weight: 40 - 50 pounds
Personality: Protective, Sweet
Activity Level: Low to Moderate
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
Another dog recommended for first-time dog owners is the Bulldog. These pups are friendly lumps of joy who adore goofing around with kids and parents alike. Bulldogs prefer laid-back playtime to high energy outings, but still require plenty of exercise to keep them physically fit. If you live in a very hot climate, beware their short noses. They can overheat easily.
10. Cocker Spaniel
Height: 13-16 inches
Weight: 20-30 pounds
Personality: Sweet, Obedient
Activity Level: Moderate
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 10-14 years
Cocker Spaniels are sweet-natured, apartment-friendly dogs. They don’t need much space to expel energy and enjoy lackadaisical playtime with kids. Adaptable and outgoing, Cocker Spaniels do require a good daily brushing session to avoid tangles and mats in their soft, silky coats.
11. Collie
Height: 22 - 26 inches
Weight: 50 - 75 pounds
Personality: Devoted, Athletic
Activity Level: Moderate to High
Shedding Factor: Seasonal
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Collies are graceful, athletic animals who like to be the apple of your eye. They do bark quite a bit, but this makes them good watchdogs. However, too much barking could indicate a bored pup. They are smart and learn commands well. Collies have long, thick double-coats that require some brushing, but no intense grooming requirements beyond that.
12. American Staffordshire Terrier
Average Height: 17 - 19 inches
Average Weight: 40 - 70 pounds
Personality: Highly Affectionate, Intelligent
Activity Level: High
Shedding Factor: Low
Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
Touted as one of the most compassionate and intelligent breeds, the American Staffordshire Terrier is definitely a good option for first-time dog owners. They also make reliable therapy dogs and companion animals. Incredibly affectionate, AmStaffs are people-oriented, which makes them vigilant watchdogs yet predisposes them to separation anxiety. Grooming is a cinch, though.
13. English Springer Spaniel
Height: 19 - 20 inches
Weight: 40 - 50 pounds
Personality: Dedicated, Friendly
Activity Level: Moderate
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Don’t confuse the English Springer Spaniel with the Cocker Spaniel! Though similar in appearance, English Springer Spaniels are bigger and more energetic. Bred as hunting dogs, they know how to work hard, play hard and relax hard. However, their high prey drive can send them on a wild goose chase at a moment’s notice, so beware while out on walks.
14. Standard Schnauzer
Height: 17 - 20 inches
Weight: 30 - 50 pounds
Personality: Alert, Lively
Activity Level: High
Shedding Factor: Hypoallergenic
Life Expectancy: 13-16 years
Standard Schnauzers thrive when surrounded by their families (not necessarily other pets, though). Their wiry coats make them hypoallergenic and ideal for households with allergy sufferers. Due to their highly playful nature and intelligence, it’s imperative to incorporate mental exercise into your Schnauzer’s daily routine.
15. Welsh Springer Spaniel
Height: 17 - 19 inches
Weight: 35 - 55 pounds
Personality: Happy, Dedicated
Activity Level: Moderate to High
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Though incredibly affectionate with their own family members, Welsh Springer Spaniels do not trust strangers and aren’t fond of meeting new people. This means that socializing them early as puppies is a must. Beyond this reserved demeanor, these dogs will go to the ends of the earth for you. Energetic and very trainable, a weekly brushing is all Welsh Springer Spaniels need to look their best.
16. Working Kelpie
Height: 15 - 25 inches
Weight: 28 - 60 pounds
Personality: Outgoing, Adaptable
Activity Level: High
Shedding Factor: Low to Moderate
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Get ready to party if you own a Working Kelpie. Not only are they incredibly energetic canines, they love people and are obsessed with games. This is not a dog for a laid-back household. These smarties need a lot of mental and physical exercise to stay sane and in shape. Yes, they can relax after a hard day of work, but they want to earn it.
17. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 28-30 pounds
Personality: Playful, Affectionate
Activity Level: Moderate
Shedding Factor: High
Life Expectancy: 12-13 years
Families with senior citizens may want to consider a Pembroke Welsh Corgi. These companion animals dote on their owners and make very alert watchdogs. Their compact size and friendly disposition add to their already adorable features. Just beware: They shed constantly.
18. Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Height: 10.5-12.5 inches
Weight: 25-38 pounds
Personality: Adaptable, Sweet
Activity Level: High
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are distinguishable from Pembroke Welsh Corgis by their fluffy tails. They don’t shed quite as much, but they are equally as affectionate, adaptable, playful and social as their Pembroke counterparts. Also, corgis have been known to tap into their herding instincts around kids, so get ready to see a lot of running in circles (all in good fun, of course).
19. Great Pyrenees
Height: 25-32 inches
Weight: 85-110 pounds
Personality: Calm, Sweet
Activity Level: Low
Shedding Factor: High
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Not only is the Great Pyrenees a supremely gentle giant, they have a low prey drive and are relatively calm creatures. These dogs are excellent comfort animals for kids needing a soothing presence in their lives. Yes, they shed profusely. But they make up for it by being absolute sweethearts.
20. Leonberger
Height: 25-32 inches
Weight: 90-170 pounds
Personality: Intelligent, Goofy
Activity Level: Moderate to High
Shedding Factor: High
Life Expectancy: 7-10 years
One of the biggest dogs on our list is the Leonberger. These are low energy canines who will never turn down a chance to hang out with family or meet new friends. Though gentle and relaxed, they aren’t meant for small spaces.
21. Border Terrier
Height: 12-15 inches
Weight: 11-16 pounds
Personality: Friendly, Adventurous
Activity Level: Moderate to High
Shedding Factor: Hypoallergenic
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Another hypoallergenic breed for allergy sufferers or folks who just can’t stand a bunch of shedding. There’s a whole lot of affection and adventure stuffed into their small frames and they won’t let you forget it. Perhaps not great with other puppies, they are terrific with small children. Note to owners: These pups love to dig.
22. Bernese Mountain Dog
Height: 23-28 inches
Weight: 70-115 pounds
Personality: Calm, Friendly
Activity Level: Moderate to High
Shedding Factor: High
Life Expectancy: 7-10 years
If you combined lots of fluffy fur, a heart of gold, a calm demeanor and a jovial personality into one, you’d get a Bernese Mountain Dog. These lovers are meant for soothing companionship and will keep any chaotic household grounded.
23. Australian Terrier
Height: 10-11 inches
Weight: 15-20 pounds
Personality: Affectionate, Playful
Activity Level: High
Shedding Factor: Low
Life Expectancy: 11-15 years
Australian dog breeds are known for their intense energy, agility and willingness to work hard to complete a job. The Australian Terrier is no different. Though they may not show their affection outwardly all the time, they happily participate in games, family excursions and anything that involves an adventure. Train commands early (they love to learn) and be sure one command includes “No barking.”
24. Alaskan Malamute
Height: 23-25 inches
Weight: 75-85 pounds
Personality: Playful, Obedient
Activity Level: High
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 10-14 years
A fluffy dog with a penchant for following directions, the Alaskan Malamute makes a great companion for children. Bred as a sled dog, these animals are loyal beyond belief and make good guard dogs. Malamutes may have protective streaks that make them distrust any stranger they meet, so leash training early is wise.
25. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
Height: 17-19 inches
Weight: 30-40 pounds
Personality: Friendly, Loyal
Activity Level: Moderate to High
Shedding Factor: Non-shedding
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Described as deeply devoted, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a people pleaser through and through. They’re fairly high energy with a strong prey drive. A fenced-in yard or dog park is an ideal spot for playtime. Terriers tend to be a bit stubborn when it comes to training, so getting one as a puppy makes establishing healthy boundaries easier.
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