Top Dog Breeds for Families With Children
We believe no home is complete without a dog, but some breeds may be better for homes with children. Three attributes should be kept in mind when considering adopting a dog into a family home: temperament, size, and energy level.
Temperament
A dog’s temperament directly translates to their personality. When looking for a dog to bring into your family, you should look for a dog who has a temperament that works best with younger, smaller children. For example, a calm dog will create a stronger bond with your children than a more outgoing, hyper dog.
Size
Size will not determine if a dog will be good with children, but it will be something to consider in relation to temperament and energy level. A larger, energetic dog may not be the best fit because they may knock over children in a moment of excitement. However, a small, calm dog may work perfectly due to their size and personality.
Energy Level
Energy level is dependent upon your family’s preference. If your family is outgoing, energetic, and constantly on the move, an energetic dog breed may be an ideal fit for your family. High-energy dog breeds will require more exercise and movement. If these characteristics are not regularly catered to, your dog may experience behavior problems down the road to release their excess energy. For families who operate at a slower pace, a more casual, low-energy breed might be a great fit instead.
Best Dog Breeds for Families with Children
Golden Retriever
The golden retriever is one of the most patient, smart, and loyal dog breeds which makes them a perfect fit for families with children. This breed does need quite a bit of exercise and they love to play. Children love golden retrievers because of their obedient and affectionate personalities.
Beagle
Beagles are ideal for families with children because not only are they gentle and loving, they also are avid entertainers and love to put on a show. The energy level of a beagle is high which means they will love spending their time running around with kids all day!
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds. They are playful, protective, reliable, and highly intelligent. Labrador retrievers take well to training which makes them a great breed for homes with families and smaller children. Before adopting a Labrador retriever, it is important to note this breed requires a lot of exercise and they do shed which will require regular cleanup. Labrador retrievers get along well with other animals and people which makes them one of the more adaptable and hospitable breeds perfect for families.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
For a slower-paced family, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a great match. This breed is incredibly friendly and enjoys smaller children and other furry companions. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a calm breed and do not require a lot of exercise but may require a bit of pets and attention because they are eager to please!
Poodle (Miniature)
Interested in a dog that is easy to train, full of personality, and athletic? The Poodle might be the dog for your family! Poodles bond with all family members in the home making them one of the most recommended family breeds. This breed is also incredibly smart, obedient, and playful.
Vizsla
Nicknamed the “Velcro dog,” the Vizsla breed is recommended as a family dog because of their gentle manner, loyal spirit, and affectionate personality. Vizslas are one of the most obedient and confident breeds and form close bonds with family members. This breed requires a great amount of exercise and is best in families with older kids.
Havanese
Out of all the small dog breeds, the Havanese is one of the smartest. With their ability to learn new tasks quickly, the innate desire to bond with their owners, and a need for the spotlight, they operate best in a family with children they can entertain. Havanese require some grooming to upkeep their coat and should be regularly brushed at home.
Bringing a New Dog into Your Home
Whenever a new dog is brought into a new place, there may be an adjustment period. This is normal and allows them to learn and understand their new surroundings. Create a schedule with your new pup and abide by it daily to create a sense of routine. This can include playtime, downtime, and time spent together.
Appropriate exercise and socialization can be the trickiest elements to incorporate into a daily routine. Dogtopia daycare is an excellent resource for exercise, socialization, and education for your furry child and will ensure your pup will develop positive behavior they can show off at home. Plus, you can check in on all the fun with our live webcams and watch them play they day away with all their new friends or as we call them, BFFFs (Best Furry Friends Forever)! You’ll love how happy and content they are after a full day of play and how well they sleep at night! 😉
To find a Dogtopia daycare near you and schedule your Meet & Greet today, click here!
