Luckily, dogs are more than just man's best friend - they're everyone's best friend. There are dozens of types of dogs that aren't only well-suited for families with kids and great for children to grow up with. And because we know what an important decision is to bring a new pup into your home, we've compiled this list of ten breeds that are good with kids.
1. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog, or ACD, is a challenging and rugged dog bred to work alongside cattle on ranches in Australia. These dogs are naturally curious creatures that love exploring every inch of their surroundings, with the first person they meet being their owner. This makes them highly enthusiastic and friendly, so they're ideal pups for kids who want to learn how to care for a pet from an early age.
2. Basset Hound
A Basset Hound's droopy eyes, wrinkly face, and small stature may seem intimidating, but these tiny dogs are extremely gentle and affectionate. They're also known to be goofballs that love rolling around and playing every chance they get. This can make them ideal companions for young kids who want a companion.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
If you're looking for a small and easy to care for a dog, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is it. These dogs are tidy, obedient, affectionate, and love to play. Children adore their floppy ears, especially when they wag back and forth as these dogs hop around the house with excitement.
4. Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is a lively, bouncy, and energetic dog. They're intelligent and clever, but they're not just reserved for adults - kids can learn how to train this breed early on. This breed will happily follow you around the house once it's determined that you're its owner.
5. Collie
Collies are gentle, loyal dogs that get along with everyone, from kids to other small pets. These dogs were initially bred to herd sheep and cattle, so they're big lovers of the outdoors who need lots of space to run around in the back yard or on a spacious farm. And since this breed loves the company of other pets and children, you'll never have to worry about them getting lonely living by themselves.
6. Dachshund
Dachshunds are energetic and enthusiastic dogs that love to run and play. These dogs were bred to hunt down badgers and other burrowing animals, so they're exceptionally athletic and love romping around. This breed also has a lot of personalities, so they're ideal for kids who enjoy nature with their pets.
7. Great Dane
The Great Dane is the classic example of a giant dog breed that's enormous but small enough to live comfortably with your children and other pets like cats, rabbits, or smaller dogs. These dogs are affectionate, gentle, and devoted to their family members.
8. Greyhound
The Greyhound is a quiet, dignified dog with a gentle and friendly personality. The Greyhound is very loyal to its owners and loves company, so they're great for families with kids because they'll always be around to keep them company.
9. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is a brilliant, loyal dog that loves being around people and its surroundings. They're also great family dogs that love cuddling up next to their owners on the couch after a long day of playtime in the backyard or a walk along the beach.
10. Poodle
The Poodle is one of the most popular breeds globally, and with good reason - they're gentle, kind, playful, and loving. You'll find that this breed is very loyal to its owners and incredibly easy to train. These pups love to spend time in their owners' company because they believe they're the luckiest dogs to have a family like yours.