Most Kid-Friendly Dogs: Best Dog Breeds for Families with Toddlers
It is well known that to help a child grow into a compassionate and kind person, fostering a love for animals is important. However, this can rarely be achieved by simply reading fairy tales or educational stories. Sooner or later, many parents consider adopting a pet. This could be anything from a hamster to a large dog—what matters is your ability to care for the animal in your home, whether in an apartment or a house. Today, we’ll discuss dogs.Children love all types of dogs, and the cuter the dog, the more they are drawn to it. That doesn’t mean your family dog needs to be a purebred. Many people find joy in rescuing stray dogs. However, if you’re hesitant to adopt a mixed-breed puppy, it’s wise to research, consult with breeders, and choose a dog that suits your child's temperament.
Advice:
We invite you to take our unique Parenting Mentor Test, which will help match you and your child’s temperament with the ideal pet.
Remember, you are adopting the dog for your family, not just your child. Your toddler will play with the dog—riding it like a horse, pulling its tail or ears, inventing new hairstyles, and who knows what else? All primary care responsibilities will fall on you. That’s why it’s essential to choose a dog that suits both your toddler and yourself.
There are countless breeds—from tiny Chihuahuas to giant mastiffs. When choosing a dog for a family with small children, it’s important to know that not all breeds interact safely with young kids. In such families, the ideal dog must be very tolerant of children’s pranks and have enough energy to keep up with a lively child for hours on end. Of course, a kind temperament is a must.
So, if your family is active and your child is energetic and restless, consider these breeds:
- Poodle – Poodles are bursting with energy. These playful, gentle, and friendly dogs are affectionate and eager to be with their family at all times, whether relaxing on the couch or playing outdoors.
Anyone who chooses a poodle should be ready to invest time in both grooming its beautiful coat and ensuring regular walks. Without enough activity, poodles can become mischievous. You can pick the size that best suits your family, from toy and miniature to standard and large poodles. Remember, poodles require attentive care.
Brush their coat daily to avoid shedding throughout your home, and bathe them 1-2 times a week. - Pembroke Welsh Corgi – Corgis are ideal for large, loving families and can get along with other pets. They have high spirits, intelligence, and goodwill.
On walks, Corgis rarely bark at other dogs, are gentle with children, and love games like hide-and-seek or soccer. Their short, dirt-resistant fur, and compact size make them easy to care for. - Beagle – Beagles are sociable and easily build strong relationships with adults and children alike, making them perfect for families. While friendly with dogs, they can see cats or small pets as prey, so careful supervision is needed. They are energetic and might require extra training for proper behavior.
- Boxer – Boxers may look tough but are gentle with children and protective when needed. With a strong, stable temperament and affectionate nature, boxers love attention and interact well with all family members.
They are usually calm at home and playful outdoors. Frequent exercise is important for boxers; they love long walks and sharing joys with their young human friends. - Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever – The epitome of a family dog. Retrievers, including Golden Retrievers, are attentive, loving, and have a high intellect. They pick up on their owners’ moods and aim to please. These good-natured, positive dogs love swimming, playing with balls, and can spend hours with children. They thrive in active families.
- Bichon Frise – The Bichon Frise is a wonderful family dog. Even as adults, they remain playful and can enjoy lively company or quietly sit with their owner when things are calmer. Their gentle temper makes them ideal for families with small children.
While they aren’t suited as guard dogs, Bichons tolerate children’s whims with grace, making them popular for families. Kids can play beauty salon without any risk, as Bichons are safe and patient.
An extra bonus—their fur is hypoallergenic and does not shed. - Pug – Pugs are not aggressive and adore being the center of attention. They treat children calmly, if not sensitively, but don’t expect endless playfulness. Pugs aren’t as physically active as some breeds, but their amusing antics, expressive faces, and odd little sounds provide plenty of entertainment.
- French Bulldog – French Bulldogs are true companion dogs—loving, loyal, and free from aggression. They are brave and deeply affectionate with their family.
Perfect for apartment living, French Bulldogs are content staying indoors, rarely bark, and do not disturb their owners. They are known for their kindness and devotion, and they patiently wait for attention.
Children see their dogs as companions and friends, appreciating the unconditional loyalty and love they receive. In their dog's company, children cope better with parents’ busy schedules and feelings of loneliness—this is especially important for shy kids. They often share their worries and joys with their dog, learning responsibility and building self-confidence in the process.