Top 10 Best Dog Breeds for Kids

Kids and dogs go together like peanut butter and jelly, macaroni and cheese, and pepperoni and pizza. But before we start getting cravings, let’s just agree that the idea of kids and dogs being the best of friends has been a long honored tradition in our society, dating back to as far as we can remember. While any breed of dog can arguably be the best furry friend for any kind of kid, a few notable experts got together and decided to generate a list of dog breeds that are most suitable for most kids based on breed personalities and other characteristics.

The Top 10 Best Dog Breeds for Kids:

#10 The Bulldog. These dogs are sturdy and great for kids who like to rough house, but they are not the most energetic dogs. However, if you are looking for a friendly, docile and loyal companion for you and your family, the bulldog could be the perfect dog for you. Bulldogs do well in large homes, as well as, apartment living.

#9 The Beagle. Although Beagles were originally kept as hunting dogs, they are smart, friendly, happy and energetic, with a sturdy build that is perfect for playing with kids. They do sometimes like to chase other pets, and they also shed and require frequent brushing and bathing.

#8 The Bull Terrier. This breed became famously know as the “Target dog” a few years back, but it was actually bred to be a companion dog. It’s friendly and loving personality towards grown-ups and kids alike, as well as it’s high tolerance threshold for pain make it the ideal dog for rough housing and rampaging kids who are just learning how to be respectful of animals. It is perfect for large families and is known to be very protective of children.

#7 The Collie. Lassie continues to live on in the heart of every little boy and girl who’s ever loved her on the small and big screen. Collies are smart, rarely bite their human family and are easily trainable, making them the perfect first dog. Collies require regular grooming and since the breed was originally bred for herding, it may try to herd the children, which should be discouraged through proper training.

#6 The Newfoundland. These dogs love kids so much that they have affectionately been nicknamed “Nature’s Babysitter.” Gentle, kind and patient, this breed is sure to have any family fall in love with their sweet and loving personality.

#5 The Vizsla. This is a high-energy breed that requires regular exercise and could be perfect for an active family with older kids. Vizslas have a lively disposition, but are gentle, loyal and affectionate. They are also obedient, confident and smart, who form close bonds with their family. As a bonus, they love learning tricks, and somehow escape the common “doggy” smell.

#4 The Irish Setter. Known for their red coat, this is a playful, energetic breed that loves being around people and plays well with children. They do need a lot of exercise, but they are smart and easy to train. They are best suited for homes with a yard.

#3 The Poodle. Despite their often-amusing haircuts, which they acquire through no fault of their own, this is a very smart and gentle breed of dog. The best part is that Poodles are perfect for kids with allergies. However, they do require regular grooming and haircuts. Poodles are proud and elegant dogs, as well as, caring and loyal. They are patient, good-natured, and have a friendly demeanor that makes them a great companion for any child.

#2 The Labrador Retriever. A very popular breed, these dogs are known for their playful, patient, loving, protective and reliable personalities. Their sweet and intelligent disposition makes them a perfect family pet.

#1 The Golden Retriever. Slightly smaller than a Lab, this confident, smart, kind and loyal dog is the perfect family pet and great with kids. Their patience and love of play make meeting their need for regular exercise an easy goal to achieve.

One other kind of dog not mentioned in this list is the one we affectionately call the “Mutt.” Often found at local shelters and humane societies, Mutts are dogs with two or more breeds mixed in their DNA. It’s important to remember that any combination of the above listed breeds would also make a terrific family pet. However, many dog breeds not on this list have also proven to be great pets for both adults and children alike, including such breeds as the Rottweiler, the Doberman Pincher, and the Pit Bull.

When looking for a dog to join your family, epetsure asks you to remember that every dog deserves a loving home. Regardless of the breed, with a little training and a lot of love, there isn’t a list in the world that says that family and home can’t be yours.