- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Bringing a new pet home can be very exciting, especially when you find the perfect dog for your family. There’s no one single perfect family dog, but many pet experts agree that Golden Retrievers, English Bulldogs, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are some of the best dog breeds for kids and families.
But breed isn’t the only way to choose a dog that’s best for your family, explains Megan Maxwell, PhD, board certified Applied Animal Behaviorist and owner of Pet Behavior Change.
All dogs are unique, so it’s important to consider factors beyond breed, like a dog’s age, upbringing, and trainability. You might also wanted to consider physical characteristics, like how much they shed and how big they’ll grow!
Read on for a list of 19 family-friendly dog breeds from large to small, along with helpful tips for choosing the best pet for your family. You’ll also find answers to common questions about dog breeds for kids and families.
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are known for their loyalty and intelligence. Their gentle personalities and moderate activity levels also suit most families, including those with other pets and children.
- Size: Extra large
- Personality: Sweet, patient, and devoted
- Sociability: Most do well with children and other dogs
- Energy level: Somewhat active, and they need extra room for play
- Grooming and shedding: Seasonal shedding, weekly brushing required
- Trainability: Easy
- Barking: Usually only when necessary
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs, or “Bernies,” are one of the largest family dogs you’ll come across. However, they’re usually incredibly sweet and cuddly. They have a high level of energy and need plenty of exercise, but they also have plenty of loyalty and love for their families.
- Size: Extra large
- Personality: Good-natured, calm, and strong
- Sociability: Most do well with children and other dogs
- Energy level: Very active, with daily exercise needed
- Grooming and shedding: Frequent shedding, brushing 2-3 times a week required
- Trainability: Easy, due to their desire to please
- Barking: Moderate
Great Dane
Great Danes come in a large size, and they have patience and love to match. Most are energetic, but these dogs also love relaxing while cuddling with family members.
- Size: Extra large
- Personality: Friendly, patient, and dependable
- Sociability: Need supervision around children and other dogs
- Energy level: Very active, with a high level of mental and physical activity needed
- Grooming and shedding: Seasonal shedding, occasional brushing required
- Trainability: Can be easy to train, but some are stubborn
- Barking: Moderate
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers consistently hold a top place on the list of most popular dog breeds, especially for family dogs. They typically fit into any family dynamic and excel at many activities, including hunting, show, and obedience.
- Size: Large
- Personality: Friendly and outgoing
- Sociability: Most do well with children but may need supervision with other dogs
- Energy level: Very active, with a high level of mental and physical activity needed
- Grooming and shedding: Frequent shedding, weekly brushing required
- Trainability: Usually easy to train due to a desire to please
- Barking: Moderate
Golden Retriever
“Golden Retrievers likely have the best track record as one of the top dog breeds for kids and families, according to scientific literature and my own experience working with animals,” Dr. Maxwell says.
She explains that Golden Retrievers are one of few breeds explicitly researched by scientific studies examining dog breed differences in behavior. They perform very well on most behavioral tests of tolerance, gentleness, and other characteristics that support their ability to interact well with children.
- Size: Large
- Personality: Intelligent, friendly, and devoted
- Sociability: Does well with children and other dogs
- Energy level: Very active, with daily mental and physical activity needed
- Grooming and shedding: Seasonal shedding, occasional brushing required
- Trainability: Usually easy to train due to a desire to please
- Barking: May bark for attention
Boxer
Boxers love to play and have plenty of energy. They make especially great pets for families with active children because they can use their high energy levels to keep up. However, due to their need for attention and exercise, Boxers aren’t ideal for families who spend a lot of time away from home.
- Size: Large
- Personality: Active, bright, and fun-loving
- Sociability: Most do well with children but may need supervision with other dogs
- Energy level: Very active, high level of mental and physical exercise needed
- Grooming and shedding: Occasional shedding, weekly brushing required
- Trainability: Usually easy to train due to intelligence and energy
- Barking: Moderate
Irish Setter
Irish Setters are known for their long, red coats and their hunting skills. These sweet and active dogs will fit well into active families!
- Size: Large
- Personality: Outgoing, sweet-natured, and active
- Sociability: Most do well with children and other dogs
- Energy level: High, daily exercise and extra room for play needed
- Grooming and shedding: Seasonal shedding, weekly brushing required
- Trainability: Usually easy to train and responds well due to high energy level
- Barking: Only when necessary
Samoyed
Samoyeds have a face that seems to smile, a friendly demeanor, and a reputation as loyal family dogs. However, they may need extra support in training, so they’re best for families with time and patience. They may also do better in homes with older children.
- Size: Medium to large
- Personality: Friendly, gentle, and loyal
- Sociability: Usually does well with children but may need supervision with other dogs
- Energy level: High, with daily mental and physical activity needed
- Grooming and shedding: Seasonal shedding, brushing twice weekly required
- Trainability: Medium
- Barking: High
English Bulldog
English Bulldogs have an instantly recognizable face and snort that many kids and adults love. They’re also adaptable, so they can fit in well as city or country dogs.
- Size: Medium
- Personality: Calm, friendly, and amusing
- Sociability: Usually does well with children and other dogs
- Energy level: Low-medium, daily walks needed
- Grooming and shedding: Seasonal shedding, weekly brushing required
- Trainability: Relatively easy to train and responds well
- Barking: Quiet
Vizsla
Vizslas are attentive and energetic sporting dogs with a strong desire to stay close to you, always. Their exercise needs make them a little higher maintenance—but they don’t have an undercoat, so you won’t spend much time grooming them! They’ll fit well into active families with kids who like to play.
- Size: Medium
- Personality: Energetic, affectionate, and gentle
- Sociability: Usually great with kids but may need supervision with other pets
- Energy level: High, daily exercise needed
- Grooming and shedding: Seasonal shedding, weekly brushing required
- Trainability: Easy due to desire to please
- Barking: Moderate
Poodle
Poodles are clever and easy to train. They make an ideal pet if you’re searching for a relatively easy dog breed that will fit well into your family. They come in several sizes, so there’s a Poodle for every size of home!
- Size: Toy, miniature, and standard
- Personality: Active and very smart
- Sociability: Does well with children but may need supervision with other dogs
- Energy level: High, needs daily physical and mental activity
- Grooming and shedding: Infrequent shedding, daily brushing required
- Trainability: Easy to train due to intelligence and desire to please
- Barking: Vocal
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
“Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are especially good family dogs,” says Dr. Amy Pike, DVM, a board certified veterinary behaviorist with Animal Behavior Wellness Center.
Cavaliers are very friendly and usually get along with children and other dogs, which makes them a great choice for most families. They also do well as therapy dogs.
- Size: Small
- Personality: Friendly, affectionate, and active
- Sociability: Usually do well with children and other dogs
- Energy level: Moderate, regular exercise needed
- Grooming and shedding: Occasional shedding, weekly brushing required
- Trainability: Easy due to their desire to please
- Barking: Only when necessary
Beagle
Beagles love to explore and play, which makes them ideal for families with kids. They’re also easy to care for, which many parents appreciate. Just keep a close eye on your plate, since Beagles are known for their talent at sneaking snacks!
- Size: Small
- Personality: Happy, friendly, active
- Sociability: Most do well with children and other dogs
- Energy level: Moderate, daily exercise and play needed
- Grooming and shedding: Seasonal shedding, weekly brushing required
- Trainability: Easy, usually responds well
- Barking: Very vocal
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs have become one of the most popular small dogs for families. Many people fall in love with their big ears and adorable snorts. They’re not very active, so they can make an excellent option if you prefer a dog who doesn’t need multiple long walks a day.
That said, many French Bulldogs develop health concerns and may require more trips to the vet than other breeds. Pike recommends against getting a French Bulldog if you have other pets, as they often show aggression towards other dogs.
- Size: Small
- Personality: Playful, smart, and adaptable
- Sociability: Most do well with children but usually not with other dogs
- Energy level: Low, daily short walks needed
- Grooming and shedding: Seasonal shedding, occasional brushing required
- Trainability: Responds well
- Barking: Quiet
Pug
Pugs have their own motto: “Multum in parvo,” which means “much in little.” Their motto represents their large, happy personalities and small size! Many people consider these friendly dogs one of the best breeds for kids and families.
- Size: Small
- Personality: Charming, happy, and loving
- Sociability: Usually does well with children but may need supervision with other dogs
- Energy level: Moderate, daily exercise needed
- Grooming and shedding: Regular shedding, weekly brushing required
- Trainability: Easy to moderate
- Barking: Only when necessary
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are one of the best dogs for families, Dr. Pike says. These small white dogs are sweet, playful, and active, so they make a great option for families with playful, energetic kids.
Plus, they rarely shed, so you won’t have to clean up as much dog hair!
- Size: Small
- Personality: Curious and playful
- Sociability: Usually good with children and other dogs
- Energy level: High, daily mental and physical exercise needed
- Grooming and shedding: Infrequent shedding, professional grooming required
- Trainability: Easy
- Barking: Moderate
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers have a unique “tuxedo” appearance that many people find endearing. Their small size and friendly, fun personality make them family dogs, especially if you have children.
- Size: Small
- Personality: Friendly, bright, and fun
- Sociability: Usually does well with children but may need supervision with other dogs
- Energy level: High, daily exercise needed
- Grooming and shedding: Occasional shedding, weekly brushing required
- Trainability: Easy
- Barking: Only when necessary
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are one of the smallest sporting dog breeds. They’re active dogs who enjoy hunting, but they’re also patient and attentive to the emotions of the people around them. As long as they can stay active, they make great family and therapy dogs.
- Size: Small
- Personality: Smart, happy, and loving
- Sociability: Usually good with children and other dogs
- Energy level: High, daily exercise needed
- Grooming and Shedding: Seasonal shedding, daily brushing and frequent ear cleaning required
- Trainability: Easy
- Barking: Moderate
Dachshund
Dachshunds love adventures, and their playful, curious natures makes them a good fit for active families.
Dr. Pike cautions, however, that they’re prone to back injuries. It’s important to supervise playtime, especially with younger children, to make sure they avoid jumping and getting injured on stairs or furniture.
These little dogs will fit in best with families who are regularly home and have time to devote to consistent training!
- Size: Small
- Personality: Curious, friendly, and spunky
- Sociability: Need supervision with active children and other dogs
- Energy level: High, regular exercise needed
- Grooming and shedding: Occasional shedding, weekly brushing required
- Trainability: Easy
- Barking: Frequent
Choosing A Dog For Your Family
Knowing the top dog breeds for families can offer some guidance, but it’s always best to choose a pet based on your family, budget, and lifestyle.
For example, you might want to consider the following traits when choosing a dog:
- Size: Consider how much space you have and the size of your children. A large dog might not be best if you have a small space or young kids.
- Personality: A good family dog will be affectionate, social, playful, and easy to train. You may also want to consider dogs that don’t require much grooming, depending on how much free time you have!
- Energy level: Your energy level should mostly match your dog’s, otherwise they may end up bored and frustrated with a lack of activity. Generally, high-energy dogs do best with active families, and low-energy dogs make a better fit for less active families.
Budget factors
All dogs cost money, and the best breed for your family is one that aligns with your budget.
You’ll usually have to pay for your pup, though you’ll typically pay a lot less when bringing home a dog from a shelter compared to a breeder. Other important costs include:
- Dog food
- Training treats
- Food and water bowls
- Toys
- Vet visits
- Medical treatments
- Bedding
- Grooming items
- Collar and leash
All dogs will need these items, but some dogs will also have additional costs. For example, Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, Pugs, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are prone to health issues, so they may need more vet visits.
The cost of vet care can quickly add up, but pet insurance can help you save some money when keeping your pet healthy!
Lifestyle
Your lifestyle and routine also matter quite a bit when you choose a dog to add to your family.
- Schedule: If you have a busy schedule and go out to work each day, you’ll want to avoid active dog breeds, like Great Danes or Labrador Retrievers. Instead, you might consider a low to moderately active dog, like a Newfoundland or Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. It’s also important to pay attention to signs of separation anxiety.
- Activity level: If you and your family enjoy playing and spending time outdoors, consider getting an active and playful dog, such as a Golden Retriever or Bichon Frise.
- Young children: Some dog breeds, including Great Danes and Dachshunds, have less patience for small children. These dogs will do better in homes with older kids or teenagers.
- Home size: While many dogs are adaptable, avoid getting a large pet if your home is small. Ideally, you’ll provide your pet with ample space to relax and play—and it always helps to have a fully fenced yard!
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Dog Breeds
These answers to common questions about family dogs may help you choose the best dog breed for your family.
Are some dog breeds more family-friendly than others?
Some dog breeds are more suitable for families, especially families with children. That said, breed doesn’t always matter when it comes to choosing the right dog. Ideally, you’ll choose a dog who’s kind, gentle, and easy to train. These traits matter more important than the dog’s breed, and many mixed-breed dogs make excellent family pets!
What is the safest family dog?
Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are some of the most popular, safe family dog breeds. However, each dog is unique and safety doesn’t necessarily depend on the breed, says Dr. Leslie Sinn, DVM, owner and certified professional trainer at Behavior Solutions.
When searching for a safe family pet, choose a dog who shows patience around children and responds well to training.
What is the most loyal family dog?
Dr. Sinn says loyal dogs can also be described as those with people-pleasing tendencies. They’re usually interested in people as much as they’re interested in other dogs, if not more.
Golden and Labrador Retrievers are bred primarily as family dogs. They tend to be easygoing and love people so much that they show a sense of loyalty.
What is the easiest family dog?
The “easiest” family dog can depend on your definition of easy. French Bulldogs and Pugs are usually relatively easy to train and require moderate grooming and exercise. However, they may have more health concerns than some other dogs.
Which dog breeds are not good with kids?
These breeds may be less patient or gentle with small children:
- Dachshund
- Australian Shepherd
- Chihuahua
- Weimaraner
- Siberian Husky
- Shih Tzu
- Rottweiler
- Greyhound
- Dalmatian
- Doberman Pinscher
Of course, they can absolutely still be family dogs with careful supervision and training!
What dog breeds don’t get lonely?
“We can’t say which breeds are less likely to be lonely or experience separation anxiety because this depends on the individual dog,” Dr. Sinn explains.
Smaller breeds, puppies, and adopted dogs may be more prone to separation anxiety and loneliness. If you know you’ll be away from home often, you may want to budget for the cost of hiring a dog walker or sitter. Most dogs, especially family dogs, love their people. So, it’s generally not a good idea to get a dog if you know they’ll have to stay home alone for most of the day.
Takeaway
While many people think of certain dogs as great family dogs, it’s important to remember every dog is different, even among breeds. With love, attention, and training, many different types of dogs—purebred and mixed breed alike—can make a great addition to any family.
To find your perfect family pet, you can seek support from a certified trainer or animal behaviorist. You can also try our breed selector.
Ready to bring a new puppy home? Start with our new puppy checklist.
