The Best Dog Breeds For Children

Puppies and children go together like Peanut-Butter and Jelly - or do they?

Finding the best dog breeds for children is very important if you want your kids and dog to get along.

Of course, puppies and children can most definitely be the best of friends, and for lots of us some of our earliest, and best, memories may be of the time spent with the family dog.

However, it's vital that parents put a lot of thought and consideration into purchasing a dog/puppy who is to spend time with their kids. And it's also useful to understand that the best dog breeds for children may not necessarily be the first ones that come to mind.

Characteristics of Dog Breeds That Are Good With Children

A list of the best dog breeds for children won't generally include high-energy, herding breeds such as Border Collies, or some of the smaller, snappy (sharp) terrier breeds such as Jack Russell Terriers.

Although several dog breeds that are good with children are fairly large, such as the Labrador Retriever, the large, strong guardian breeds such as Doberman Pinschers, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Akitas and Chows are not generally recommended (unless you're a very experienced and confident dog owner).

Some large to giant breed dogs are very laid back, tolerant animals, but their sheer size makes them potentially hazardous to small/young children. A St. Bernard or Mastiff could easily knock down a small child just in play.

Conversely, some of the tiny dog breeds may be very friendly and sweet, but not considered the best dog breeds for children as they tend to be very delicate and easily injured.

Children are not always as careful as they could be with a puppy, and rough housing or clumsy handling could really hurt a small breed pup/dog.

Also, some smaller breeds tend to be a bit 'nervy', which means they can be a bit fearful or jumpy, and loud, fast moving children can jangle their nerves and cause them to act snappish. Obviously that doesn't classify them as good dog breeds for children.

The Best Dog Breeds For Children

• Australian Shepherd


• Beagle


• Bearded Collie


• Bernese Mountain Dog


• Bichon Frise


• Boston Terrier


• Boxer


• Cocker Spaniel


• English Bulldog


• Golden Retriever


• Labrador Retriever


• Norfolk Terrier


• Old English Sheepdog


• Poodle


• Pug


• Staffordshire Bull Terrier


• Wheaten Terrier


• Whippet

There's pretty much something for everyone on this list, so if you're thinking of choosing a puppy to your family, any of the above dog breeds should be good with children.

Don't forget that there are also many wonderful dogs (and pups) in shelters and pounds across the country, who desperately need new homes and families of their very own. Adult dogs can make excellent pets for children, especially if chosen from the breeds listed above. The added benefit to you is that you can skip the house-training, chewing everything and running amok puppy stage!!

Choosing A Puppy How To Pick A Healthy Puppy The Right Dog Breed Dog Rescue Organizations Puppy Questions Page
Return From Best Dog Breeds For Children to Homepage