The Best Dog Breeds for Families with Kids
A Parent’s Guide
Choosing the right dog for your family can be a big decision. You want a furry friend who is not only adorable but also gentle, patient, and playful with children. Here’s a guide to some of the best dog breeds for families with kids.
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Labrador Retriever
Characteristics: Friendly, outgoing, intelligent, gentle, and eager to please.
Labrador Retriever dog breed
Size: Medium to large, 21.5-24.5 inches tall at the shoulder for males, 21-23.5 inches for females.
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Colors: Black, chocolate, and yellow
Weight: 55-80 pounds for males, 55-70 pounds for females
Special Features: Excellent swimmers, highly trainable, and make great family pets.
Why they’re great: Labradors are known for their friendly, outgoing personalities. They’re gentle giants who love to play and are always up for a cuddle.
Things to consider: Labs are high-energy dogs, so they need plenty of exercise. They can also be prone to separation anxiety, so make sure you’re prepared to spend quality time with your furry friend.
Labrador Retriever Amazon product recommendations –
Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult Dry Dog Food, 30 pound bag.
Maxpower Planet Pet Grooming Brush, reduces shedding for dogs and cats with long coats.
Chuckit! Dog Ultra Ball, large, 3 pack.
Honest Paws Dog Shampoo and Conditioner, plant based, good for all dog breeds and ages.
Golden Retriever
Characteristics: Friendly, intelligent, gentle, and patient.
Golden Retriever dog breed
Size: Medium to large, 21.5-24 inches tall at the shoulder for males, 20-22.5 inches for females.
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Colors: Golden, cream, and light golden
Weight: 65-75 pounds for males, 55-65 pounds for females
Special Features: Excellent swimmers, highly trainable, and make great family pets. Often used as guide dogs and therapy dogs.
Why they’re great: Golden Retrievers are another popular choice for families. They’re intelligent, gentle, and have a love for water.
Things to consider: Like Labs, Goldens are high-energy dogs. They also have a tendency to drool, so be prepared for some extra cleanup.
Golden Retriever Amazon product recommendations –
Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Salmon & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food, 40 pounds
Kong Classic Dog Toy, 2 Pack Large Classic.
Hertzko SelfCleaning Slicker Brush for Dogs and Cats
Burt’s Bees for Pets Oatmeal Dog Shampoo, unscented formula.
Beagle
Characteristics: Friendly, playful, and curious.
Beagle dog breed
Size: Small, 13-15 inches tall at the shoulder for both males and females.
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Colors: Tricolor (black, white, and tan), lemon, and red
Weight: 18-30 pounds for both males and females
Special Features: Excellent sense of smell, often used for hunting. Known for their playful and energetic personalities.
Why they’re great: Beagles are playful, affectionate, and have a great sense of smell. They’re also relatively low-maintenance and easy to train.
Things to consider: Beagles can be stubborn and may require some extra patience during training. They also have a tendency to bark, so be prepared for some noise.
Beagle Amazon product recommendations –
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog Food
Nylabone Dura Chew Bacon Flavor Dog Chew Toy
Swihauk Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush for Dogs and Cats
Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Dog Shampoo and Conditioner, itchy, dry skin relief
Boxer
Characteristics: Playful, intelligent, and loyal.
Boxer dog breed
Size: Medium to large, 21.5-25 inches tall at the shoulder for males, 21-24 inches for females.
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Colors: Fawn, brindle, and white
Weight: 60-70 pounds for males, 50-60 pounds for females
Special Features: Known for their distinctive brindle coat and playful personalities. Often used as guard dogs and police dogs.
Why they’re great: Boxers are energetic, playful, and love to be around people. They’re also very loyal and protective of their family.
Things to consider: Boxers can be high-energy and require plenty of exercise. They can also be a bit clumsy, so be careful around small children.
Boxer Amazon product recommendations –
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Dry Dog Food
FURminator deShedding Tool for Large Dogs With Short Hair
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic & Antifungal Shampoo for Dogs
Newfoundland
Characteristics: Gentle, intelligent, and strong.
Newfoundland dog breed
Size: Large, 26-28 inches tall at the shoulder for males, 24-26 inches for females.
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
Colors: Black, brown, and landseer (black and white)
Weight: 100-150 pounds for males, 80-100 pounds for females
Special Features: Excellent swimmers, known for their gentle and protective nature. Often used as water rescue dogs.
Why they’re great: Newfoundlands are gentle giants who love to cuddle. They’re also excellent swimmers and can be great companions for water-loving families.
Things to consider: Newfies are large dogs and can be a bit clumsy. They also drool quite a bit, so be prepared for some extra cleanup.
Newfoundland Amazon product recommendations –
Royal Canin Giant Adult Dry Dog Food
Chuckit! Dog Ultra Ball, large, 3 pack.
Hertzko SelfCleaning Slicker Brush for Dogs and Cats
Wahl USA 4-in-1 Calming Pet Shampoo for Dogs
Miscellaneous Amazon Dog product recommendations for All Dog Breeds
Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed for Large Dogs
ShawnCo Essential Dog Harness, No-Pull Pet Vest with 3 Leash Clips
Neater Feeder Deluxe Large Mess Proof Feeder for Large Dogs
Gorilla Grip 100% Waterproof Raised Edge BPA Free Silicone Pet Feeding Mat
Tips for Choosing the Right Dog for Your Family
Consider your lifestyle: Do you have an active lifestyle or a more sedentary one? Choose a dog that can keep up with your family’s pace.
Think about your living situation: Do you live in a house with a yard or an apartment? Consider a dog’s energy level and exercise needs.
Do your research: Learn about different breeds and their temperaments. Talk to breeders, veterinarians, and other dog owners.
Visit a shelter: Many wonderful dogs are waiting for their forever homes in shelters. Consider adopting a shelter dog.
Spend time with the dog: Before bringing a dog home, spend time with it to see how it interacts with children and other pets.
Remember, the best dog for your family is the one that fits your lifestyle and personality. Do your research, consider your options, and choose a furry friend that will bring joy and love to your home.
Once you’ve chosen the perfect breed for your family, be sure to check out our guide on how to train your puppy in 7 easy steps.
Additional Tips for Raising a Dog with Kids
Teach your kids how to interact with dogs properly: Teach them to be gentle, avoid pulling on tails or ears, and always ask permission before petting a dog.
Supervise interactions: Always supervise interactions between children and dogs, especially young children.
Train your dog: A well-trained dog is less likely to cause accidents or injuries. Train your dog basic obedience commands and good manners.
Create a safe environment: Make sure your home is safe for your dog and your children. Remove any potential hazards, such as small objects that could be swallowed.
Be patient: Raising a dog with kids takes time and patience. Don’t expect perfection overnight.
By following these tips, you can raise a happy and healthy dog that will be a beloved member of your family for years to come.
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