While the phrase "best family dogs" instantly recalls a couple of popular Retriever breeds, there are fantastic family dogs in all sorts of shapes and sizes. We know that adding a dog to your family is a big decision, and with so many different options out there, deciding on the perfect breed can be a challenge. To make your research a little easier, we've put together this list of some of the best family dogs around!
What Should Someone with Kids Consider When Choosing a Dog Breed?
Each of these breeds has its own distinct personality, but they are all social and adaptable pups that do well with kids. For some families, small dog breeds are the most appealing and appropriate choice. They are portable, take up minimal space, and you don't have to worry about them knocking over your youngsters. They also eat less, which can save on food costs and amounts to less cleanup!
For others, it's comforting to have a sizable companion who makes you feel safe and guarded (even if they're ultimately a lover, not a fighter). You may think that owning a large dog means you need to have a large space for them to roam, but you might be surprised. There are big dogs fit for all kinds of different living situations, it's just a matter of getting to know them!
How To Introduce Your New Puppy to Your Children and Other Pets
Of course, size isn't the only factor to consider. Introducing a new puppy to another dog or cat in your home can have its challenges, too. While some pets may take to your new addition right away, others may not. Do not fret because this is completely normal behavior and can often take a few weeks before your dog or cat accepts the puppy. Here are some best practices for the entire family to know when introducing a new puppy to another pet:
- If you can, always try to socialize your pets with other dogs before introducing a new puppy. A well-mannered and social dog that is already used to the presence of other dogs will be more receptive to a new puppy.
- Chose a neutral location when making their introductions. Bringing a new puppy straight into the house could cause your pet stress and make them feel territorial in their own home. Neutral ground allows them the opportunity to sniff and check each other out.
- Never force them to interact! Your adult dog or cat will adjust but they will do it at their own speed. Avoid letting your emotions show if you're upset that they are taking to each other right away. Your dog often has a good read on your emotions and if you are showing signs of stress they will feel it too.
- Always reward good behavior! Rewards can come in the forms of positive praise, petting, playing with their favorite toy, or even treats.
- Always supervise playtime. You never want to leave your puppy unattended with an adult pet until you know everyone is fully acclimated. This will help with preventing stress or possible injury. It is important to keep your new puppy separated from other pets and even small children when you can not keep an eye on everyone.
- Keep activity in short but frequent sessions. Playtime is a great way for your puppy to bond with the family, especially with other dogs and children. Try short leashed walks and playtime outside and inside the home. It is important to monitor your puppy to make sure they don't overexert themselves and to stop playtime after a set amount of minutes or when playtime turns into roughhousing.
Ultimately you need to find a pup that fits your family's lifestyle, activity level, and overall tastes. Having your kid(s) involved in the process is also important, even if you are hoping to surprise them with a puppy. Talking with them about different kid-friendly breeds will allow you to gauge which ones appeal to them and will aid you in choosing the best fit for your family.
Is your new best friend waiting in the list below?
Large Breeds
Bernese Mountain Dog
If you're looking for a large dog breed with more moderate energy, the Bernese Mountain Dog is hard to resist. As long as you have the space to accommodate a 120-pound eternal puppy, life with your Berner will be a breeze. They are eager to please, fun-loving, and incredibly gentle with those smaller than them.
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Bulldog
There is no mistaking the ever-lovable and wrinkly Bulldog! This friendly and devoted breed is a wonderful pick for any low-key family with children. While most consider the Bulldog a lazy breed, they just might surprise you with their short bursts of comical energy. They can be confident and sometimes a little stubborn when training, but with time and positive reinforcement, you’ll have a well-mannered companion.
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Collie
We’re sure you’re not surprised to see the proud and graceful Collie on this list. This breed has spent many years as an entertainment icon on both the small and big screen alongside their kid co-stars. The highly intelligent, easy-to-train, and loyal Collie is a wonderful breed to consider for any family with children and other pets. They also come in a variety of colors and have two different coat types- rough and smooth.
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German Shepherd Dog
For more active families, perhaps the intelligent and courageous German Shepherd Dog is a more apt choice. This energetic pup will gladly accompany you and the fam for a run, walk, or a hike. Their impressive trainability, absolute devotion, and patience with children are what makes them one of the best large dog breeds for families!
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Golden Retriever
The fact that they are so patient with children is likely why the Golden Retriever is one of America's favorite dogs. Goldens are family-oriented and happy to be part of the fray. They are athletic enough for an active family but don't mind lounging around the house either (as long as they get their daily walk). Mostly these social pups just want to be with their loved ones. They have an even temperament and make friends with humans and pets anywhere they go.
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Great Dane
The ever-patient Great Dane can be very sedentary, and thus adapts easily to living in small spaces, and even apartment buildings. As long as they have the opportunity to stretch their legs a few times a day, they will be happy. Danes are renowned for their patience and kindness with pets and kids of all ages; thus they make great family dogs.
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Irish Setter
If you are searching for a large and overly friendly breed, then look no further than the Irish Setter. Their sweet, spirited, and lively personalities make them a great choice for an active family with kids. This intelligent sporting breed is usually easy to train and will flourish in a family who wants to spend most of the day at play.
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Labrador Retriever
The Lab just might be the ultimate family dog. Labradors are social, easy to train, and loving companions. They adore kids of all ages and have the energy to play all day. Labs adapt quickly to any situation, which is what makes them such a dependable addition to the family. As long as your Labrador can exercise daily, she'll be a breeze to live with.
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Poodle
Poodles are great family dogs because they are intuitive and loving. Your Poodle will know when it's time to run and play and when it's time to settle down. The Poodle is one of the easiest dogs to train due to their exceptional intelligence. This social pup needs lots of exercise to burn off its excess energy, but they are not picky about what form it comes in. Bonus! They also come in three sizes (standard, miniature, and toy) so you can pick which variety best fits your family.
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Small Breeds
Beagle
The Beagle is another breed that has spent a lot of time in pop culture and in return has won the hearts of many families along the way. This clever, friendly, and merry breed is high-energy and loves children of all ages. However, their curious nature and great sense of smell can often get them into some mischief. It’s important to never leave a Beagle outside unsupervised as they can easily wander off while tracking whatever smell they caught a whiff of.
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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Affectionate and friendly, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel gets along with everyone and doesn't mind going with the flow. Their versatile and accommodating nature makes them one of the best dogs for kids! They are just as happy to lounge around at home as they are to accompany you on a morning walk, or a trip to the park!
Browse available Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies for sale
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are an energetic and athletic breed with couch potato tendencies. They are sturdy enough for any type of activity, from hiking to playing ball, and get along well with other pets and kids of any age.
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Havanese
The social and eternally goofy Havanese is one of the best family dogs out there. While they do appreciate some outdoor playtime, your Havanese is content just to be by your side. They are highly trainable and love to be the center of attention. Your Havanese is likely willing to learn all kinds of tricks in hopes of receiving a treat!
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Pug
Are you searching for a breed that is playful, friendly, and good with kids, but is also a couch potato? Then the Pug might be the perfect fit. These little mischief-makers are comical, sweet, charming, and oh-so-lovable. The Pug is easily adaptable, loves children, and makes new friends with just about everyone they meet.
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Yorkshire Terrier
The scrappy Yorkshire Terrier makes a devoted pet and a reliable watchdog. Your Yorkie won't mind if you're always on the go, as these busy Terriers are happy to accompany you anywhere: kids' soccer matches, carpool duties, grocery shopping, they don't care! They are fragile and may be impatient with young children, but make loving companions for families with older kids.
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Doodle Breeds
Bernedoodle
The Poodle's intuition mixed with the Bernese Mountain Dog's loving nature make the Bernedoodle one of the best dogs for kids of any age. Possibly the ultimate playmate, this goofy pup is up for anything her family wants to do. Though their energy is boundless, they are easy to train and want to make you happy. The Bernedoodle is social and adaptable, meaning you can take them anywhere and trust them to behave.
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Cavapoo
The delightful Cavapoo would be a welcome addition to any family looking for an intelligent and sweet designer breed. Their well-mannered and playful personalities put them at the top of our list for anyone wanting a kid- and pet-friendly dog. The Cavapoo will easily win you over with its adorable teddy-bear-like appearance, gentle disposition, and ability to be the best snuggle bug around.
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Goldendoodle
There is truly no surprise as to why the Goldendoodle is such a popular designer breed. Combining the smarts of the Poodle with the happy Golden Retriever personality gives you a breed that is the perfect fit for just about any type of family. This doodle is easy to train, energetic, and friendly. They come in three sizes (standard, medium, and miniature) and various generations depending on how much of the Poodle qualities you are looking for.
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Labradoodle
This fun-loving hybrid breed has boundless energy and a sweet and social personality. As long as they have plenty of opportunities to work off their energy, the Labradoodle makes an easygoing, docile pet for just about any family. They are easy to train and bond quickly with their people. They are happy to go anywhere, or do anything, as long as they can be with you!
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If you’re looking for the perfect family-friendly puppy to add to your family, browse our available puppies for sale or contact us today!
