Kids and dogs go together as well as peanut butter and jelly. Dogs are not only sources of love and companionship for kids, but a dog can also teach your child important lessons about responsibility and compassion. Some dogs tend to do better with children than others, however. If you're ready to introduce a furry family member to your kids, but you're not sure what type of dog to get them, here's the scoop on the best dog breeds for children.
What Makes a Dog Good for Children?
The best dog breeds for children in general are those that are laid back and patient enough to handle a child's high energy and rambunctiousness, sturdy enough to endure rough handling and play, and that have gentle and loving personalities. Your family might have additional requirements to consider. Deciding which dog breed is right for your family depends on a few major factors:
Energy level: Just like people, dogs have varying energy levels. The dog you choose should match the energy level of your family. If your family's lifestyle tends to be sedentary or too busy to fit in long walks or lots of play, you'll need to look for a breed that doesn't require a lot of exercise or activity. Similarly, if your family is active and enjoys activities like walking or hiking, you'll want to choose a dog that is able to keep up.
Size: The right size of dog depends largely on the ages of your children. Toddlers and small children, for instance, generally aren't a good match for tiny dogs, such as Chihuahuas, which can easily be injured if handled roughly or dropped. Older children, on the other hand, may have the capacity to handle a tiny dog with the gentleness they require. Large breeds that tend to be rambunctious or hyperactive are probably a bad match for small children, but some large breeds, like Newfoundlands, are gentle giants that tend to be very patient and loving with little kids.
Temperament: Look for a dog with a gentle, laid back personality. Dogs that are generally calm, happy and agreeable without being high-strung, stubborn or aggressive tend to get along well with children of every age. Intelligent, highly trainable dogs might also do a better job of learning household rules and fitting in with the rest of the family.
Age: How old the dog you're looking for can also play a role in how well he gets along with your kiddos. Puppies, while cute, are also learning and exploring the world much like your children. So, while you need to devote your attention to your kids to help them grow, puppies also need large amounts of attention to develop too. If you're more interested in starting with a well-mannered dog that is used to human interaction and has already learned basic obedience commands, then make sure to check out your local animal shelters for an older dog that meets your family's needs.
Tasty Tips
Finding the Right Dog
A good place to start your search is the Hill's Pet dog breed catalog, where you can research different breed characteristics and traits. You don't necessarily need to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars to welcome home a purebred. Dogs of just about any breed can often be found at animal shelters and rescue organizations. Don't assume that if a dog has been left at a shelter that there must be something wrong with him. Many pups are turned over to shelters for reasons that have absolutely nothing to do with the dog's behavior.
While you might set your heart on a specific breed, keep an open mind about mutts. While purebred dogs may tend toward personality extremes, mixed breeds often have more middle-of-the-road temperaments that combine the best traits of their breed makeup. Mixed dogs also tend to be hardier and less prone to breed-specific health issues. It's always a good idea to arrange a meeting between your kids and a specific dog to make sure the potential new friend meets your expectations and is a good match for your kids' personalities. It helps to ask a lot of questions about any dog you're considering adopting. Be sure to ask yourself some questions before adopting:
Does this dog get along with everyone in the house? Some dogs are afraid of men or children, while some just take some time to get used to their new surroundings.
Does each member of your family get along with the dog? Similar to the previous question, but it's also important that you and your kids all feel comfortable around the new dog. Sometimes kids can be scared of dogs at first and just need time to get acclimated, but it is still something to consider when adopting.
Is the dog's energy level a match for your family's?
What sort of care and maintenance will the dog need? Will his coat need a lot of brushing or is this an older dog with known health issues that will require a lot of trips to the veterinarian?
If you have other pets, will this dog get along well with them?
Best Dog Breeds for Children
Based on the traits mentioned above, the American Kennel Club lists these nine breeds (in no particular order) as the best dog breeds for children:
Bulldog
Beagle
Newfoundland
Golden retriever
Labrador retriever
Soft-coated Wheaten terrier
- Bull terrier
Boxer
Other breeds that are good for children, according to PetMD, are the poodle, Irish setter, collie and Vizsla.
While energy levels differ from breed to breed, each of these breeds tends to be friendly, calm, easy-going, intelligent and relatively easy to train. They're all sturdy, medium to large dogs that should be able to play well with children without getting hurt.
Kids and dogs can form special bonds and help your child become an adult who is responsible and compassionate. It all starts with finding the best dog for your family. By doing your research, asking the right questions and not simply settling for the cutest or easiest-to-obtain dog but searching for the best fit, your family will be well on the way to becoming a happy, safe and harmonious dog family.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Mobility Large Breed Chicken Meal, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day one
Hill's Science Diet Puppy No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports healthy brain, eye, muscle, bone & immune system development in growing puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight with Joint Support Large Breed Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken, Carrots & Spinach Stew Dog Food
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health, tailored for unique needs of Small and Mini puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Small Bites Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active dogs, who prefer smaller kibble
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Whole Oats & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Chicken & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the faster metabolism of Small & Mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 6+ Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports energy & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, joints, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Large Breed Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active large breed dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken & Rice Entrée Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Related articles
Adopting Dogs for Seniors: Tips for Finding the Perfect Companion
Learn more about how dogs for seniors are loyal companions. They are pack animals who want nothing more than some attention, activity, and love.
Steps to Take If Your Dog Is Vomiting Blood
Here are three steps to take if you find that your dog is vomiting blood.
How to Keep Dogs Active in Winter
How to Keep Dogs Active in Winter
Dog Scratch Reflex: Why Dogs Kick Their Legs During Belly Rubs
Wondering why your dog's leg kicks when you scratch his belly? Learn about dog scratch reflexes, why they love belly rubs and how it's useful for your vet.
Can Dogs Have Cinnamon?
Learn whether cinnamon is safe for your dog, what to do if they got into cinnamon bark, oil, sticks or spice, and what quantity of it is a health concern.
When Should a Dog Be Spayed?
Learn the proper age to spay your puppy, as well as whether adult dogs can be spayed, and possible complications to keep an eye out for following surgery.
Pyoderma in Dogs: What You Need to Know
Learn what pyoderma in dogs looks like, what causes it and how nutrition & your dog's food can play a role in preventing and treating the infection.
Are Carrots Good for Dogs? What You Need to Know
Learn whether carrots are good for your dog, ingredients in carrots that can provide health benefits, whether raw vs. cooked are a better option, and more.
Dogs and Fireworks: How to Help Your Frightened Pooch
Does your dog struggle with the loud noises from fireworks? Read information about canine noise anxiety, and get tips on how to help them cope.
Caring For a Dog with Sensitive Skin
Learn how dogs with sensitive skin can have special dietary needs, how they can develop over time in a healthy dog, and how Hill's dog food can help.
Washing Your Dog from Ear to Paw: Eight Supplies to Make It Easy
Use this dog washing supply checklist to help you get all the materials needed, making bathing your dog at home a fun and easy experience.
Dog Enclosures: How to Keep Your Dog in a Safe Area
Are you looking for a way to keep your dog safe? There are many options for dog enclosures, and it's important to know what to look for.
Why Does My Dog Eat Grass?
Your dog is a descendent of the mighty wolf, a noble hunter and confirmed carnivore. You feed him meals of the best possible quality, so why does he insist on eating grass?
Keys to Helping Your Dog Through the Aging Process
Understand the different ailments that can affect aging dogs and what you can do to provide them with the quality of life they're used to living.
How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog?
You know that bathing your dog is important, but how often should you do it? Learn the right dog bath frequency, based on their breed, lifestyle & health.
Addison's Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Learn about Addison's disease, or Hypoadrenocorticism, in dogs, including a wide range of symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options.
Dogs and Ticks: Protecting Your Pup
Everything you need to know about dogs & ticks: identifying different types of ticks, what diseases they can cause and how to prevent future tick bites.
Treating a Torn ACL/CCL in Dogs: TPLO Surgery & More
Learn about torn CCL injuries in dogs (equivalent to a torn ACL in humans), including risk factors, how they are diagnosed and how TPLO surgery can help.
How to Stop Your Dog From Barking at the Door
Learn why dogs bark at the sound of the doorbell ringing and how to train them not to.
Can Dogs Have Asthma?
Can dogs have asthma? Learn more about the clinical signs of dog asthma and how this condition is treated.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.