The pandemic has prompted a lot of people to adopt puppies/ dogs as now is when they’re getting a lot of time home to spend with their dogs and properly integrate their dogs into their homes. While investing time and effort is a must, especially during the initial phase of finalizing and getting the best dog breeds for families with or without kids, keeping the momentum continued is as important.
Choosing the right breed is the most vital step of adopting a dog as not all dogs are meant for every type of household. When it comes to families with kids and toddlers, dogs can be a great addition as they teach kids to be responsible, take ownership and be empathetic. However, only a dog who’s compatible with kids can do so.
While there are tonnes of videos out there that showcase Pitbulls being angels around kids and Labradors snapping at toddlers, a lot of this can be also be attributed to the training and past experiences of the dogs around kids. Generally speaking, the following are a few of the best dog breeds, especially for kids, that make really good family pooches because of their traits to thrive on human companionship.
1. Labrador
Intelligent and loving, Labradors have come to be a global favorite as family dogs. They’re affectionate, playful and can be quite patient when it comes to kids. Because of their ability to adore humans, they easily become a kid’s best bud for life. With the right amount of exercise and training, these dogs are a delight to have in any home.
2. Golden retriever
They’re considered to be one of the world’s most popular pet dogs. With their long shiny golden coat, angelic puppy eyes and bear-like structure, these cuddle bugs are hard to resist for anyone. They’re suckers for any kind of physical activity, thereby keeping kids active and playful. Originally bred to retrieve during hunting and field work, the name “retriever” refers to the breed’s ability to retrieve shot game undamaged due to their soft mouth. These gentle giants are a pure joy to watch around kids and are one of the most incredible dog breeds for kids.
3. Poodle and selected Poodle mixes
Standard poodle is considered to be one of the most intelligent and trainable breeds in the world. Moreover, they love human companionship, making them a delight to have around kids. Being hypoallergenic, they don’t shed as much, making them perfect for kids with allergies. Their leggy appearance and springy gait reminds a lot of kids of cute little ponies and unicorns, thereby making them a favourite among toddlers.
Poodle mixes like Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Shih-poo (Shih-tzu x Poodle), Bernedoodle (Bernese mountain x poodle) are also really good options to consider provided the family has enough time to exercise and train these dogs. With the right amount of socialization, they can be raised to be incredibly child-friendly dog breeds.
4. Boston Terrier
With Tuxedo like markings on their body, these “American Gentlemen” are true gentlemen when it comes to being around kids. Their size and agility make them a wonderful company for kids. In general, they are trainable but can be stubborn at times. They tend to snort and snore due to their short and stout face, but that just makes them a lot more endearing.
5. Basset Hound
The basset hound is a very chilled-out breed. Easy going and affectionate, these dogs don’t need rigorous exercise routines. Just a couple of walks a day should be good enough to make sure they don’t become obese. On days when walks aren’t possible, a few play sessions with the kids also work equally well in keeping them physically and mentally stimulated. As they were originally bred to hunt in groups, they tend to enjoy living with families.
6. Bernese mountain dog
Bernese mountain dogs are extremely versatile and can adapt themselves to a wide number of environments, provided they’re well stimulated. Their calm and friendly disposition and fierce loyalty make them an adorable companion for kids. A Bernese nurtured and socialized well with kids is sure to win anyone over thereby making them one of the best dog breeds to raise with families.
7. Bichon Frise
This little cloud is one of the most mischievous and enthusiastic companies any kid can have. They look like fluffy teddies and strut around like one too, making them a favorite among kids. Although they shed less, grooming them is important to keep them free of mattes and tangling. Kids can do it best as they have the ability to be gentle while handling and grooming a dog, thereby making the whole experience positive and fun for the dog.
8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Their compact size, floppy ears and heart-melting expressions have made them one of the most popular breeds among kids. They’re a bundle of joy and energy and naturally get along really well with kids. While they love playing a wide variety of games, they equally enjoy a cuddly nap in your lap. This quality makes them jive well with almost all types of families.
9. Pug
One of the most chilled out breeds of all time, the Pug is one of the least demanding breeds when it comes to keeping them active. They don’t need much exercise to keep them stimulated. A walk a day is enough to keep them fit and active. In fact, on AKC, Pugs score a 100% for “child–friendliness.” They’re easy to groom and adapt well in any situation due to their sociable nature.
10. Shih-Tzu
One of the fanciest looking breeds, these dogs can be groomed to perfection to look like dog models, making them an absolute delight to have around kids. They have moderate energy and don’t demand a lot of physical and mental stimulation. Shih-tzus are super trainable and can be effortlessly integrated into a kid’s daily routine as they can easily match up to any kid’s energy level. They also don’t shed much, making them better for kids with allergies.
11. Alaskan Malamute
One of the most endearing aspects of the Malamutes is their howling talent. They can keep kids entertained for hours with their ability to be vocal. Furthermore, they’re gentle giants who are super friendly, affectionate and very gentle with kids. However, they’re very energetic and don’t do well in smaller and inactive spaces. They need rigorous exercise routines, which helps in keeping the whole family active.
12. Maltese
Maltese is an absolute favourite among lacs of families who want a dog that looks adorable as heck, does not shed as much and doesn’t require a lot of exercise. While they love training and responding to human commands, they do well without an arduous exercise routine as well. Their size and disposition makes them one of the best dogs to have for kids who have the ability to be gentle with dogs.
Of course, the whole responsibility of being gentle and compatible with kids does not lie on dogs alone. Kids must be equally responsible to be a good and reliable company for dogs. It’s the parents’ responsibility to teach both of them to coexist peacefully. The above-mentioned breeds do get along well with kids, but every dog has a threshold, a limit to which he/she can be patient. It’s important to not cross this line, irrespective of the breed, size or age of the dog or the kid.