Best Dog Breeds for Families with Kids

In my over two decades in working with families and their dogs, I've seen countless examples of owner struggling to adapt their life around their problem dog or vice versa simply because they chose a dog breed that was incompatible with their lifestyle. If you wanta jogging partner ... porbably best to avoid an English Bulldog. Want a low-stress, do-nothing dog? The Belgian Malinois is NOT your guy! So if you are here to find out what purebred dogs would be the best for a family with young kids, I'm going to give you my list of which breeds I think will set you up for easy street.

LARGE BREED DOGS THAT ARE GREAT FOR FAMILIES

1) Labrador Retriever

Pros: Solid built and a solid temperament, these dogs are always ready to go with the flow. Whether its a hiking, camping, or hanging at home, a Labrador's gentle nature will make it easy to integrate into whatever you are doing.

Cons: Beware the higher energy hunting line Labradors may be a bit more than you bargain for so selecting the right breeder is just as important as selecting the right breed. Health wise beware of joint issues, skin allergies, and the tendency to swallow items they should not.

2) Golden Retrievers

Pros: Golden Retrievers are also a solid answer for a busy family because their good nature is adaptable to most any situation. They tend to be a lower energy counterpart to the Labrador Retriever which can be nice when you have a busy family schedule.

Cons: Unfortunately Golden Retrievers come with numeroy as health issues such as higher incidence of cancer later in life. They also can be prone to skin issues, ear infections, allergies, and a s a trainer we have seen a number have issues with resource guarding.

3) Brittany

Pros: This little known hunting breed is small, sturdy, and has a super steady nature. Their coat is fairly low maintance compared to other breeds yet their athletic build lends them to a variety of activities. They are also extremely smart and trainable.

Cons: Brittanys, like many hunting dogs can have more energy level than the average pet so plan on lots of exercise if add one of these to your family.

4) Newfoundland

Pros: These gentle giants are sure to bring lots of attention wherever you go. While their size (and slobber) maybe a deterant for many, their personalities are hard to beat. If you want a laid back pal for your family, a Newfie is definintely one to consider.

Cons: Did we mention the slobber and size? Okay, if you can see past that, there are some grooming requirements to consider. Healthwise you'll want to select a reputable breeder to be sure your pup's parents have be cleared for things like hip dysplasia and cardiac issues.

5.) Boxer

Pros: Boxers are often called a class clown and its because they like to bring the fun whevever they are. They have such happy natures, its hard not to smile when you are around one. They are very loyal to their people and make great family protection dogs.

Cons: Boxers can also be called a bull in a china shop when they dont have enough formal training so be ready to start young with instilling good habits. While they often wiggle in happiness, sometimes they can knock over young children in exuberance.

SMALL BREED DOGS THAT ARE GREAT FOR FAMILIES

1) Papillon

Pros: For a small breed, these guys can run with the big dogs. They are super smart and trainable and are ready to be part of the action. Their small size makes them a great addition if you have a smaller living space or wish to have a companion you can travel with on airplanes.

Cons: Beware of breeders who are breeding dogs who may be more sharp in temperament. Take the timet o find a well breed papillon from a reputable breeder.

2.) Beagle

Pros: These dogs are hardy workers with great personalties and a perfect size to fit into a home or apartment. They have relatively good health minus the occassional ear infection or allergies.

Cons: Be ready to for your pet to constantly have their nose to the ground when out for walks as these guys love a good sniff. They also can be a bit talkative, and by that we mean they yodel-yell for joy so hopefully you like a good yodel too.

3) Corgi

Pros: Corgi's are confident, solid dogs who enjoy being with their families and are always up for an adventure. They are outgoing, and easy to train making them a great fit for someone looking for a dog to add to a family.

Cons: Corgi's are short in height but stocky in size to keep in mind they are heavier than they look. They do great with families but can be selective with other dogs if not socialized early so keep in mind that early training is a must for this breed.

4.) Cavalier King Charles Spanial

Pros: Cavaliers are very similiar in temperament to a Golden Retriever. They are sweet, happy, calm little dogs with low exercise requirements.

Cons: Probably the biggest con for these great little dogs is they do have considerable health issues so make sure to select a reputable breeder before you purchase a Cavalier.

5) Boston Terrier

Pros: Much like the Boxer breed, these guys are complete clowns. Their silly antics will bring you lots of joy. They are very smart and trainable and they are an ideal size for someone looking for a small breed companion dog.

Cons: Thes guys do have some health issues so make sure to find a reputable breeder to get you on the right track and start training early to head off bad habits before they begin.