The Top 20 Dog Breeds for Families With Kids
Dogs are one of life's greatest gifts. With each tail wag, tiny bark, or nuzzle, pups work their way into the hearts of their owners. Of course, furry companions come in all shapes and sizes, but some breeds are better suited to be around small children. That's why if you are thinking about adopting or buying a dog, you should consider one of these best dogs for kids.
Each dog breed comes with a unique personality. For instance, the Newfoundland is well known as a "nanny" dog, protective of children and fiercely loyal to their families. Bulldogs are full of personality and can be quite patient. Aside from personality characteristics, there are other factors to think about. Perhaps you need a small dog breed or medium-sized dog based on the amount of space you have in your home. Maybe you need to think about a hypoallergenic house pet or a dog that's low maintenance and easy to keep clean. You may also need to consider an independent dog breed if you go to work every day. All in all, whether you're a Golden Retriever fan or prefer Beagles and Boxers, there's a kid-friendly dog breed out there that's perfect for your family.
After consulting the American Kennel Club, here is our list of the top 20 family dogs.
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever remains one of the most popular dogs in the United States. Due to their fierce loyalty, devotion, and good-natured attitude, they are considered the quintessential family dog. According to the American Kennel Club, they hit high marks in all the areas that make them great with children: playfulness, energy, patience, and trainability.
Height: 21 to 24 inches
Weight: 55 to 75 pounds
Temperament: Devoted, intelligent, friendly
Lifespan: 10 to 12 years
Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is one of the world's most well-loved dogs and is most recognizable from the movie Lady and the Tramp. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they are now adoring members of many families. Cocker Spaniels are great with kids, other animals, and in large settings. Their long coat may require extra grooming, but it's worth it.
Height: 13.5 to 15.5 inches
Weight: 20 to 30 pounds
Temperament: Affectionate, playful, protective
Life Span: 10-14 years
Bulldog
Bulldogs might look tough, but deep down, they are softies. And while they might weigh up to 50 pounds, that won't stop them from trying to be lap dogs. They are patient and calm, making them the perfect dog for those with small children. They do best in cooler climates (or air-conditioned homes if it's hot) because their short snouts make it hard for them to cool off naturally.
Height: 14 to 15 inches
Weight: 40 to 50 pounds
Temperament: Friendly, courageous, calm
Lifespan: 8 to 10 years
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Pug
According to the American Kennel Club, the pug's Latin motto is multum in parvo, which means "a lot in a little package." This tagline perfectly describes these pint-sized dynamos who are fiercely loyal to their families, offering lots of cuddles and tons of personality.
Height: 10 to 13 inches
Weight: 14 to 18 pounds
Temperament: Charming, loving, mischievous
Lifespan: 13 to 15 years
French Bulldog
How could you not love that face? With expressive eyes and bat-like ears, French Bulldogs quickly leave their mark on the hearts of their owners. They love to play but are also very smart, so go ahead and teach them a few tricks. They are popular city pets because they seldom bark and are happy going on walks vs. hanging out in a backyard.
Height: 11 to 13 inches
Weight: 28 pounds and under
Temperament: Playful, smart, adaptable
Lifespan: 10-12 years
English Setter
English Setters are known for their lustrous coats and overall good looks. But they are much more than a pretty face. These sweet dogs are also known as the gentlemen of the dog world — calm, competent, and loyal. Yet, they still love to have a good time. English Setters enjoy games of fetch with the kids, learning new tricks, and spending time with the family.
Height: 23 to 27 inches
Weight: 55 to 80 pounds
Temperament: Friendly, mellow, happy
Lifespan: About 12 years
Yorkshire Terrier
If you're looking for a bundle of energy that loves rough and tumble good play, the Yorkshire Terrier is the dog for you. Like a true terrier, they are feisty, tenacious, and brave. Their tolerance and patience make them good with young children and friendly with other humans and dogs.
Height: 7 to 8 inches
Weight: About 7 pounds
Temperament: Affectionate, high energy
Lifespan: 11 to 15 years
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Bichon Frise
These affectionate dogs are good with other household pets and children. They have big personalities that make them lovable companions. If you have allergies, Bichons are hypoallergenic, with brilliant white coats that shed less than the average dog.
Height: 9.5 to 11.5 inches
Weight: 12 to 18 pounds
Temperament: Curious, playful, spirited
Lifespan: 14 to 15 years
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Havanese
Havanese are the only dogs native to Cuba. In fact, that's where the dog gets its name — Havana, Cuba. With curled-over tails and silky coats, these outgoing dogs love to be in the thick of things and don't mind the hustle and bustle of everyday family life. They also make excellent little guard dogs.
Height: 8.5 to 11.5 inches
Weight: 7 to 13 pounds
Temperament: Intelligent, outgoing, funny
Lifespan: 14 to 16 years
Irish Setter
Irish Setters are well known for their lustrous red coats that come in chestnut and mahogany. Their even temperament and loyal demeanor make them the perfect family dog. They love to run, so take them to the park for a good game of fetch or chase.
Height: 25 to 27 inches
Weight: 60 to 70 pounds
Temperament: Active, outgoing, sweet
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are devoted, good-natured pets, but beware: They get big. The average Newfoundland weighs about 130 pounds, so be prepared for a big commitment. Their patient nature makes them the perfect companion for small children, giving them the nickname the "nanny dog."
Height: 26 to 28 inches
Weight: 120 to 150 pounds
Temperament: Devoted, good-natured, patient
Lifespan: 9 to 10 years
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Border Terrier
Originally bred as a working dog, the Border Terrier is a bundle of joy and affection in a tiny package. They love exploring the outdoors, which makes them the perfect companion for children. Their wiry coats make them easy to groom. However, they may not mix well with cats, who often trigger their natural hunting instinct.
Height: 12 to 15 inches
Weight: 11.5 to 15.5 pounds
Temperament: Affectionate, happy, rambunctious
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Beagle
With expressive faces and happy-go-lucky attitudes, Beagles make excellent companions. They are playful in nature and do well in most situations. While they were originally bred to hunt, they have evolved into easy-going dogs.
Height: 13 to 15 inches
Weight: 20 to 30 pounds
Temperament: Curious, friendly, happy
Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
Weimaraner
Most Weimaraners blend seamlessly into large families. They are confident, loyal dogs who are happy to be accepted as part of the pack. Their beautiful, velvety coats are easy to maintain, and their blue-grey eyes are full of expression. They love physical contact and are apt to snuggle up right next to you on the couch.
Height: 23 to 27 inches
Weight: 75 to 90 pounds
Temperament: Friendly, obedient, loyal
Lifespan: 10 to 13 years
Collie
The most famous Collie was Lassie. Like the silver screen legend, Collies are highly intelligent and fond of children. They are also very athletic and need regular exercise, and they do well with a set schedule.
Height: 22 to 26 inches
Weight: 50 to 75 pounds
Temperament: Devoted, athletic, patient
Lifespan: 12 to 14 years
Boxer
Boxers continue to be one of the most popular dog breeds year after year, and for good reason. These intelligent dogs are loyal, affectionate, and overall very lovable. They bond easily with their families and are patient and protective of every member. Boxers are athletic by nature and love a good hike, run on the beach, or walk in the park.
Height: 21.5 to 25 inches
Weight: 65 to 80 pounds
Temperament: Active, attentive, affectionate
Lifespan: 10 to 12 years
Standard Poodle
Poodles come in four sizes: miniature, toy, medium, and standard. They aim to please and do well with structure and commands. They also need lots of exercise and mental stimuli, so a house full of children is a plus for these dogs. They also have long life expectancies, with the oldest poodles living up to 18 years.
Height: Over 15 inches
Weight: 40 to 70 pounds
Temperament: Smart, active
Lifespan: 10 to 18 years
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Labradoodle
What do you get when you combine two of the most popular family dogs? Labradoodles combine the best of Labradors and Poodles into one curly-haired, lovable package. While not completely hypoallergenic like the Goldendoodle, they are easier on those with allergies due to their low shedding coats.
Height: 21 to 24 inches
Weight: 40 to 50 pounds
Temperament: Social, intelligent, friendly
Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These noble dogs have even temperaments, making them instantly lovable family pets. Cavaliers are patient with children and other animals. Their medium-length coats do need some maintenance, but it's worth it for all the joy they bring to the family.
Height: 12 to 13 inches
Weight: 13 to 18 pounds
Temperament: Affectionate, gentle
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Labrador
These all-American dogs were bred as hunting companions. Today, they still show a great love for the outdoors as excellent swimmers and hikers which keeps them mentally and physically fit. They are known to be extremely friendly, making fast friends with visitors, neighbor kids, and other dogs.
Height: 21.5 to 24.5 inches
Weight: 65 to 80 pounds
Temperament: Active, friendly, outgoing
Lifespan: 11 to 13 years
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