Kids love to raise dogs in their homes rather than any other pets. Dogs become friendly and sportive very faster when compared to other pets. But not all dogs are good to raise by kids; there are few dogs that could turn dangerous sometimes. So pick the good and best dog for your kid by considering family budget, dog’s energy level, size, temperament, sportiveness etc.
Here’s a list of the top 25 dogs that are ideal for families with children:
1. Bulldog
Bulldog is originated in England and commonly known as British Bulldog or English Bulldog. Bulldogs are incredibly playful with children and are often favored by families for their patience and affection towards kids. The lifespan of bulldog is about 8 to 10 years and weighs between 40 pounds (female) to 50 pounds (male) (18kg to 22 kg approx.).
This medium-sized bulldog is available in a range of colors such as white, red, pale yellow, and brindle. Bulldogs are not heavy barkers but make excellent watchdogs. Kids can take this pet for short walks and bulldogs tend to relax most of the times on the laps rather on the yard.
Bulldogs are not very aggressive; they are calm and friendly natured. Children quickly bond with bulldogs, as they readily form attachments and adapt well to a home environment. It's recommended to brush the dog weekly and clean the facial wrinkles daily.
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2.Boxer
The Boxer, originally from Germany and often called the German Boxer or Deutscher Boxer, is a friendly and patient breed with children. This dog is known for its protective nature, making it an excellent family guard. Boxers typically stand between 21.5 inches (for females) and 25 inches (for males) and weigh between 55 and 70 pounds, depending on their height.
Boxer often come in brindle color with a black mask and may have white markings. This medium-sized breed is highly affectionate towards children and remains alert and watchful. Boxers typically have a lifespan of around 10 to 12 years.
3.Mastiff
Mastiff is another breed of dog which attracts kids and adapts easily in the homely environment. Originating from England, the mastiff, also known as the Old English Mastiff, has a lifespan of approximately 6 to 10 years. This large sized mastiff generally weighs between 54 kg (female) to 113 kg (male) and the height varied from 27.5 to 30 inches.
Mastiff can be seen in various colors like dark brindle, fawn, silver fawn and apricot fawn. The mastiff is a laid-back companion, and it’s recommended that owners begin training during the puppy stage, as this breed grows quickly into a large dog. Known for its excellent guarding instincts and patience with children, the mastiff makes a devoted family protector.
4. Beagle
Originating in England, the Beagle, also known as the English Beagle, typically lives for about 12 to 13 years. This breed often features a variety of color combinations, including white with brown, black, and tan.
The Beagle is known for its friendliness with children, making it an excellent choice for families. Female Beagles typically weigh between 9 to 10 kg, while males range from 10 to 11 kg, with both standing 10 to 16 inches tall. Since Beagles have a strong prey drive and might chase smaller animals, it's important for owners to supervise them closely.
5. Dalmatian
The Dalmatian, originally from Croatia, is also known by several other names including Plum Pudding Dog, Carriage Dog, Firehouse Dog, and Spotted Coach Dog. This breed adapts well to home life and enjoys playing energetically with children throughout the day.
Dalmatians typically live between 10 and 13 years and are distinguished by their white coats adorned with black or liver spots. This medium-sized breed stands approximately 19 inches tall for females and up to 24 inches tall for males. Dalmatian thrive on long walks and runs, making them an excellent companion for those who enjoy extended outdoor activities.
6.Newfoundland
The Newfoundland dog, originating from Canada, is known for its loyalty and calm demeanor.
This breed typically lives 8 to 10 years, with males and females reaching about 30 inches in height. Weighing between 45 kg for females and 55 kg for males,
Newfoundlands are considered a large breed. Their gentle and playful nature makes them a favorite among both children and adults. Common colors for this breed include black, brown, gray, and white, and their adorable appearance combined with their active nature are key highlights.
7.Vizsla
The Vizsla, which hails from Hungary, is also known as the Hungarian Pointer or Magyar Vizsla. This breed has a lifespan of approximately 10 to 14 years and is typically found in shades of golden rust, with or without white markings.
This sizable breed typically weighs between 18 kg for females and 30 kg for males, with heights ranging from 21 inches for females to 25 inches for males. The Vizsla is known for being an excellent watchdog and enjoys playing with children. It is consistently energetic, active, and also excels as a swimmer.
8. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever, a breed that originated in Scotland, is known for its patience with children, who enjoy playing with it throughout the day. This breed typically lives for 10 to 12 years and weighs between 27 kg for females and 34 kg for males.
The Golden Retriever is known for its energetic and playful nature, making it a great fit for home life. This breed typically stands between 21.5 inches for females and 24 inches for males, and comes in shades of gold or cream. Its gentle and friendly disposition helps it quickly become a beloved member of the family.
9. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever, originally from Canada, is often referred to simply as a Lab. This medium-sized breed typically weighs between 25 kg for females and 36 kg for males, with heights ranging from 22 inches for females to 24.5 inches for males.
Labrador Retrievers come in a range of colors including yellow, chocolate, and black. As a versatile gun dog known for hunting and retrieving birds, this breed has a lifespan of approximately 12 to 14 years. They quickly adjust to home life and their energetic nature often makes them a favorite among children.
10.Bull Terrier
The Bull Terrier, originating from England, is also known by names such as the Gladiator, English Bull Terrier, and Bully. This breed typically lives for about 10 to 15 years, with males standing between 18 to 22 inches tall.
Weighing between 22 kg to 38 kg, the Bull Terrier is a medium-sized dog that often displays a range of colors including white, fawn, brindle, and various markings on the head. Known for its role as a vigilant watchdog, the Bull Terrier is also popular with children due to its quick adaptation to a home environment.
11.Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise, hailing from the Mediterranean region, is a small-sized breed with a height ranging from 9 to 11 inches. This breed enjoys a lifespan of approximately 12 to 15 years and is commonly seen in white, though it can also come in cream or apricot shades.
Children are particularly fond of this playful small dog, and the Bichon Frise quickly becomes accustomed to both kids and other family members. For maintaining its coat, regular professional grooming is recommended, along with daily brushing to keep it in top condition.
12.Pug
The Pug, originating from China, is also known by various names such as the Dutch Bulldog, Mini Mastiff, and Chinese Pug. This breed typically enjoys a lifespan of 12 to 14 years, with males weighing between 6 to 8 kg and standing around 11 inches tall.
Pugs adapt quickly to home life and form strong bonds with children, who delight in taking them for walks due to their small size and friendly demeanor. Pugs are commonly found in colors like black or fawn, and their cheerful nature makes them a favorite among families.
13.Bullmastiff
Originating from England, the Bullmastiff is known for its calm demeanor and infrequent barking. This breed quickly warms up to children and integrates into the family environment. Bullmastiffs are large dogs, with females weighing around 45 kg and males up to 59 kg, and their height ranges from 24 inches for females to 27 inches for males.
Typically found in red, brindle, or fawn colors, the Bullmastiff excels as a watchdog, offering strong protection for the home while maintaining deep loyalty to its family. With a lifespan of approximately 8 to 10 years, this breed is both a reliable guardian and a devoted companion.
14.Weimaraner
Originating from Germany, the Weimaraner, nicknamed the “Grey Ghost” for its striking appearance, is a large breed with a lifespan of 11 to 14 years. Females typically stand between 23 inches and males up to 27 inches tall, and they weigh between 25 kg for females and 37 kg for males.
Weimaraners are usually found in varying shades of gray, with some dogs featuring a white spot on their chest. They are known for their friendly and playful nature, making them great companions for children. However, because of their size, it’s important to supervise interactions with young children to ensure their safety during playtime.
15.Miniature Poodle
The Miniature Poodle, hailing from Germany, is a small-sized breed with a lifespan ranging from 10 to 13 years. This dog comes in a variety of colors and stands between 10 and 15 inches tall. Due to its charming appearance and small size, it quickly becomes a favorite among children, who enjoy playing with it. The Poodle reciprocates their affection and is always eager to engage in playtime.
With proper training, the Miniature Poodle can offer excellent entertainment for the whole family, thanks to its playful and humorous nature. Regular professional grooming is recommended to keep this breed looking its best and to maintain its distinctive coat.
16.Standard Poodle
Originating from Germany, the Standard Poodle is a medium-sized breed with a lifespan of approximately 10 to 13 years. Unlike its smaller counterpart, the Miniature Poodle, the Standard Poodle is taller, standing around 15 inches. It also requires regular professional grooming to maintain its distinctive coat.
This breed adapts quickly to home life and provides constant entertainment for the family with its playful nature. The Standard Poodle is not only fond of playing with children but also serves as an effective watchdog, making it a versatile and beloved companion.
17.Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, often referred to as the Cav, Cavalier, or Cavie, hails from England and is recognized as a toy dog breed due to its elegant appearance. This small dog typically weighs between 5.9 kg and 8.2 kg and stands about 12 to 13 inches tall, regardless of gender.
With a lifespan of approximately 9 to 11 years, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel comes in a range of colors, including ruby, black and tan, and others. Its charming look and easygoing nature make it a hit with children, and it is known for being relatively easy to train.
18.Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier, originally from Scotland, is known for its adorable appearance and small size. This breed typically weighs between 4.5 kg and 6.8 kg and stands about 9 to 13 inches tall. With a lifespan of 13 to 14 years, the Cairn Terrier is a long-lived companion.
Usually seen in various color combinations, except white, the Cairn Terrier is playful and quickly adjusts to home life, making it a great addition to families with children. Regular weekly grooming is recommended to keep this lively dog in top condition.
19.Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd, often called the Aussie, originated in the United States and is renowned for being a friendly and adaptable family pet. With a lifespan ranging from 13 to 16 years, this breed is typically seen in tri-color or bi-color patterns.
Weighing between 14 kg for females and 29 kg for males, and standing about 18 inches tall for females and up to 23 inches for males, the Australian Shepherd is both a vigilant watchdog and a devoted family member. Its playful nature makes it a favorite among children, and it quickly becomes a cherished companion for the entire household.
20.Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog, also known as the Bernese Cattle Dog or Berner Sennenhund, hails from Switzerland and is a large and imposing breed. Females typically weigh between 35 kg, while males can reach up to 55 kg, with heights ranging from 23 inches for females to 27.5 inches for males.
This breed is recognized for its striking black, rust, and white coloration and has a lifespan of around 7 to 10 years. Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their loyalty and strong protective instincts, making them excellent watchdogs. They quickly become affectionate and friendly, particularly with children, making them a beloved addition to any family.
21.Irish Setter
Originating from Ireland, the Irish Setter is a large, playful breed, weighing 25 kg for females and up to 34 kg for males, with a height of 21.5 to 26.5 inches. This energetic dog thrives in spacious homes and needs supervision during play with young children to ensure safety.
The Irish Setter is easily recognizable by its rich chestnut coat and adapts well to family life. It quickly forms friendly bonds with children, other animals, and household pets. However, supervision is advised when it interacts with other animals to prevent any potential issues.
22.Basset Hound
Originating from France, the Basset Hound, also known as Basset or Hush Puppy, is a small-sized breed with a distinctive appearance. This dog typically weighs between 20 kg for females and up to 34 kg for males, and stands 11 to 15 inches tall. The Basset Hound's lifespan ranges from 8 to 12 years, and it can be found in various hound colors or a tri-color pattern of black, white, and tan.
Basset Hounds are known for their playful nature and make excellent family pets. Their charming looks and friendly demeanor make them a favorite among children. Additionally, they are attentive and can serve as good watchdogs, adding both companionship and security to a home.
23.Bearded Collie
Originating from Scotland, the Bearded Collie, or Highland Collie, is a medium-sized dog weighing 18 to 27 kg and standing 20 to 22 inches tall. Known for its energetic personality and distinctive look, it comes in colors like brown, blue, black, and fawn, often with white markings. This breed typically lives 12 to 15 years.
With its endearing look and playful nature, the Bearded Collie quickly becomes a beloved member of the family. Its friendly demeanor makes it a hit with children, who enjoy playing with it throughout the day. This breed’s lively spirit and affectionate behavior ensure it fits well into family life.
24.Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier, also known as the Boston Bull Terrier, American Gentleman, Boxwood, and Boston Bull, originated in the United States. This small breed typically weighs between 7 kg and 11 kg and stands 9 to 15 inches tall.
With a lifespan of 11 to 13 years, the Boston Terrier is often seen in colors like seal, black, and brindle, usually with white markings. Known for its intelligence and calm demeanor, this breed makes an excellent watchdog and enjoys playing with children while being quiet and affectionate with family members.
25.Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier, which originated in England and is also known as the Bingley Terrier or Waterside Terrier, has a lifespan of approximately 10 to 14 years. This breed typically stands around 23 inches tall, with weight varying according to height.
The Airedale Terrier is usually seen in black and tan, though red is a rare color variation. Known for its watchful and energetic nature, this breed is also very friendly, making it a favorite among children. However, supervision is advised when the dog interacts with younger kids due to its active demeanor.
Please note that physical measurements and color variations can occasionally differ. The information provided is based on thorough research, but we cannot be held responsible for any discrepancies.