The Best Dogs for Kids

The best dogs for kids are not just some of the best family dogs but some of the best and most popular dog breeds out there. These dogs have incredible patience, are gentle with the little ones, and can help teach children about responsibility. Additionally, many claim that raising children with dogs can help improve the self esteem of the child and help them with cooperation and social skills.

While many might think that small dog breeds would be better with small children, the opposite is often true. Breeds like the golden retriever, labrador retriever, Irish setter, and boxer are among the top dog breeds for children. These large dogs are gentle giants and great about tolerating the tormenting of children without backlash.

Of course many smaller dogs are also great for kids. The poodle is a popular choice for family dogs as is the beagle, shih tzu, Havanese and pug. For a family living in an apartment or one that simply does not want a larger dog, these breeds are solid choices and among the best apartment dogs. On the other hand, chihuahuas or yorkies are smaller breeds that are not especially recommended for children.

When selecting a great family dog, it's important to consider a variety of factors. That's where a mixed breed or mutt can often be a great choice of the combination of dog characteristics a family might be seeking in their ideal dog. Also, as mixed breed dogs are often the first to land in a shelter, giving a rescued mutt a forever home can change your life and the life of the dog as well. Whichever breed of dog you select, it's crucial to think the decision over thoroughly before making a commitment to any dog, but this list of the best dog breeds for families will help you start the decision making process. And if you're looking for dogs that are specifically good around infants, be sure to check out our list on the best dogs for babies.