Did you know, dogs were first domesticated over 10,000 years ago?
Yes, our favorite canine companion tagged along with us since the prehistoric era. The dogs diverged from their wild relatives, wolves, over 10,000 years ago. Today, they are not only our pets but the greatest part of human existence.
Growing up with a dog in the house has more benefits than you can imagine. Many scientific studies concluded that growing up with a dog helps kids learn important social skills, impulse control, grow responsibility and companionship, and improve their self-esteem.
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10 Friendliest Dog Breeds for Children
Here is the list of ten friendliest dog breeds for children. They can be perfect breeds for children. The list is compiled based on the history, temperament, and friendliness of the dog breed.
1. Labrador retriever
- Size: Medium-Large
- Energy Level: High
- Care: Moderate
Labrador or Labs is one of the most popular dog breeds for children. They are also favorably chosen as disability assistance breed or Therapy dogs in many countries. Their esteem qualities like obedience, loyalty, and playful composure can be a great addition to your kid’s life.
They’re the perfect family dogs who enjoy a lot of outdoor experience. They enjoy swimming, hiking, and playing on different terrains.
They’re categorized as a large breed dog; hence you must be wary about adopting them for your infant. While generally gentle, their big, wiggly bodies and strong, waggy tails may knock small kids over. The young pups tend to be quite exuberant and will jump and bounce around a lot. Labs can be a great companion for a growing kid if you’re there to monitor them in the early years.
Weighing up to 32 kg and measuring up to 57 cm, they sport a short, dense, weather-resistant double coat. You should be particularly careful when grooming your dog as you should never shave their coat. You can choose from a black, chocolate, or yellow Labrador.
2. New Foundland
- Size: Large
- Energy Level: Low
- Care: Low
Newfoundland dogs are also called Nanny-dogs. They’re extremely fond of young children. They’re a large working dog. Because of their muscular build, thick double coat, webbed feet, and swimming abilities, they’re mostly used as rescue dogs.
A male Newfoundland could weigh up to 80kg and measure up to 71 cm. They come in different shades; black, white with black patches, brown, and grey. An average lifespan of a Newfoundland is 8-10 years. They’re known for their calm, sweet, and docile nature. For this, they’re popularly known as “the gentle giant.” Be wary about grooming your dog as Newfoundland can shed a lot of furs.
Newfoundland is extremely fond and tolerant of young children. They’re extremely protective, hence they can be great around young infants. They require low to moderate exercise but you should put them on a strict diet and exercise to avoid becoming overweight.
3. Bernese mountain dog
- Size: Large
- Energy Level: High
- Care: Moderate
Bernese mountain dogs are often referred to as ‘gentle giants.’ They are highly lovable and fun to be around. You can socialize Bernese to become a well-suited companion for kids. Be wary about their size as they can easily knock small kids over.
They’re known for being patient dogs. They’re working dogs hence they can exhume high energy. They’re particularly well suited for children who like to engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, etc.
A male Bernese mountain dog could weigh up to 50kg and measure 70cm. They mostly come in three different colors; black, rust, and white. They have an average life span of 6-9 years. Despite their large size, they’re all fluff and warmhearted underneath.
With their deep chests and large-boned bodies, Bernese Mountain dogs are impressive looking dogs. They are high maintenance in terms of needs for human interaction and grooming.
4. Beagle
- Size: Small
- Energy Level: Moderate
- Care: Moderate
Beagle falls in a breed of a small hound or scent hound. They were developed primarily for hunting hare. It’s considered a great pet thanks to its small size, good temper, and lack of inherited health problems.
A male Beagle could reach up to 11.3kg in weight and 13-16 inches in height. They have a great lifespan of almost 15 years. You can find Beagle in white with brown, tan brown, or brown.
Beagle is the best pet for small kids. The size and temperament fit small kids who love to play around. They’re a great outdoor dog hence they will accompany almost everywhere. Their curious and adventurous nature makes them a perfect outdoor pet. They’re also one of the most depicted dogs in films and animation.
5. Golden Retriever
- Size: Large
- Energy Level: Moderate
- Care: Moderate
Who doesn’t love to have the furry and gentle Retriever as a pet? It can be the best companion for both children and adults. They’re a great outdoor and indoor pet. Their naturalistic instinct makes them perfect for water and extreme outdoor condition. They’re also easy to train compared to other breeds.
Did you know the name “Retriever” came to be for their ability to fetch or retrieve shot game undamaged due to their soft mouth?
It was originally bred in Scotland in the mid-19th Century. The long-coated fur and dense inner coat provide ample insulation against cold weather. Their dense fur helps to repel water.
A male Golden Retriever could reach up to 34kg in weight and 24 inches in height. They may only come in any shades of gold or cream.
Golden Retriever is considered the most friendly, fun, and sweet dog breed. Because of their friendly temperament, they aren’t considered watchdogs. If you have small kids around, Golden Retriever can be the best pet for them. They adapt well to any size home. They’re also one of the most used dog breeds for disability assistance. They’re also perfect as therapy dogs
6. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Size: Medium
- Energy Level: Moderate
- Care: Less
Did you know American Staffordshire Terrier is nearly the same breed as the American Pit Bull Terrier?
The only difference between the two is the appearance. Unlike the popular view, they are extremely affectionate family dogs and companions. They’re great to be around kids. If they’re trained from an early age, they may be less prone to displaying aggressive behavior towards other people.
As the name suggests, they were originally bred in the city of Birmingham and in the Black Country of Staffordshire. Although they were primarily bred for the blood sports, today they are acquainted into the home as the family pets.
A male Staffordshire Bull Terrier could reach up to 17kg in weight and 16 inches in height. They come in different shades of red, fawn, white, and black or blue.
A healthy dog could survive up to 12 years. Their smooth and short fur requires less or no grooming.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Size: Small
- Energy Level: High
- Care: Moderate
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a lovely companion. Because of their portable size, they fit well on your lap. Despite their small size, they’re very active and enjoy going outdoors. They’re also Plush Dog Toy.
You can very well say that it’s a royal breed. The recreated breed of King Charles Spaniel in the 19th Century resembled Charles II’s spaniel dog.
King Charles Spaniel originated in the UK. Originally they are lap dogs but they were primarily used for hunting during the 18th Century.
A male King Charles spaniel could reach up to 8kg in weight and 13 inches in height. You can find them in mostly three different shades of Blenheim, Black, and Tan, or Ruby. They’re perfect therapy dogs.
8. Alaskan Malamute
- Size: Large
- Energy Level: Moderate
- Care: Moderate
Although they enjoy living in a pack, they fit well into homes with many people. They’re extremely loyal and friendly. However, their overwhelming size and weight could prove fatal to infants.
Alaskan Malamutes are a very patient and powerful breed. Originally bred for strength and endurance, they were primarily used for hauling heavy freight or as a sled dog.
The thick fur and plush undercoat keep them warm even in the freezing temperature.
A male Alaskan Malamute could reach up to 57 kg in weight and 28 inches in height. They can well survive over 14 years.
9. Collie
- Size: Medium
- Energy Level: Moderate
- Care: Less
Collies make for the perfect breeds for kids. They are both extremely intelligent and loyal. They are quite social dogs and enjoy the company of small children. Despite their friendly nature, they can become great guard dogs.
Because of their temperament and intelligence, they are easy to train. Be wary of their nature to become overprotective of the children especially with strangers.
A male Collie could reach up to 32kg in weight. You can find different breeds of Collie. Some of the most popular breeds are working breeds namely Australian cattle dog, Australian Kelpie, Australian Shepherd, Bearded Collie, and Blue Lacy.
10. Boston Terrier
- Size: Small
- Energy Level: Moderate
- Care: Moderate
Boston terrier originated in the US. The breed originated in Boston in the late 1800s when bulldogs and white English terriers were crossbred. Many people also consider Boston Terrier as the national dog of America.
They’re very playful yet very patient. Categorized as a small dog breed, they’re quite active outdoor. The perfect temperament makes them great family pets. They get well along with other pets in the home. The short fur enjoys low shedding and is easy to care for.
A male Boston terrier could reach up to 11kg in weight and 15 inches in height. They can live up to 15 years.
How to choose the best dog for your kid?
Dogs are the ideal confidant and playmate for your young kids. They can greatly enhance the quality of life and improve the home environment. Teaching kids to care for a pup can make them more cooperative and generous. Nobody can deny the fact that the kids should imbibe qualities like empathy, generosity, and concern at an early age.
However, choosing reliable dogs for kids becomes critical because the size, energy level, temperament, and lifestyle of the dog will directly impact the growth of your child. The trick is picking the right kind of dog to blend in with your family’s lifestyle. Many dog breeds well suited as service dogs may not be a reliable companion for your kids. Many plush dog toys can be a perfect match for infants.
Here are some of the essential factors you should look into before adopting a new dog.
Size
The size of a dog can greatly affect its behavior and actions. Also, the size of your home should comfortably accommodate the chosen dog breed. Look out for mixed breed and their sizes.
Energy Level
Not all dogs have the same energy level. Some dog breeds enjoy going outdoors and playing all the time, while others enjoy lounging on the couch or sleeping most of the time. An uber energetic dog can get your kid off the couch and make them play or run which can be good for your kid’s health.
Care
All animals come with different needs. Some dog breeds require more medical care, grooming, and training than others. Larger dog breeds need to eat and exercise more than small breed dogs. You should take these things into account. Many mixed breeds require an occasional vet visit. Plush dog toys may require regular grooming compared to other breeds.
Temperament
It’s better to get your kid a dog that is affectionate and caring. Some dog breeds enjoy spending time by themselves, which won’t be a nick pick for your kid who loves to spend time playing. Consider adopting a sensible and patient dog for children with autism. Children with autism may require a perfect companion who’ll stay around with them for a longer duration of time.