Dogs are some of the best animal companions that humans can have. There are therapy dogs, herding dogs, pets, guard dogs, and many more. With the wide range of things that dogs help humans out with, it’s no wonder why dogs are known as man’s best friend. While this means that some dogs may be better for guarding, and others for other types of activities, it doesn’t mean that they are cemented into these roles.
Each dog breed is different at what the dog is good at. Some dog breeds are naturally great with children, however. Most of these dog breeds either have a naturally sweet temperament, or are easy to train to behave well around kids.
7 of the Best Breeds of Dogs for Small Children
If your family has small children, then perhaps you may want to consider some dog breeds that work well with kids. This doesn’t mean, however, that your options are limited. These dogs are merely known to be great with children. Here are 7 of these dog breeds, in no particular order.
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Labrador Retriever
Affectionately known as “labs”, these friendly dogs are some of the best breeds around kids. The popularity of this dog breed is well-justified.
According to the American Kennel Club or AKC, labs are kind and outgoing dogs. This breed is naturally very good-tempered, and are energetic when they need to be. These dogs are for the more active, however.
If you want your kids to always also be active and run around with a dog, then maybe consider getting a lab.
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Golden Retriever
Many people agree that the disposition of golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers are very similar. Both breeds are good-tempered, friendly, active, and intelligent. This breed is also more suited to an active lifestyle.
If you’re wondering which one to choose between a Labrador retriever and a golden retriever, then you’re in for a tough time. You can never go wrong with either one.
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Maltese
If you want a dog that is a bit on the smaller side, then a Maltese would be a great choice. This breed is supposedly hypoallergenic, so it would be great for kids with dog allergies since this breed does not shed.
Maltese dogs are very intelligent, lively, and have a sweet disposition. These dogs like curling up beside their humans, and will be nice companions for the more mild-mannered or indoor-loving children.
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Bulldog
Bulldogs are unfortunately portrayed in many types of media as rough, tough, aggressive, and bad-mannered dogs. While the “tough” part is true, the other descriptions are not.
The bulldog’s curious and brave nature may be misunderstood as aggressive. In fact, bulldogs are known to be great with children since this breed is naturally well-tempered and kind. The breed’s toughness is also a good thing, especially for children new to dogs and still do not know how to treat them properly.
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Beagle
Beagles were originally bred to be hunting dogs, so they are active, have naturally keen senses and high intelligence.
Beagles are popular dogs for children since the breed is gentle, good-tempered, and enjoy the company of people. They can be a bit hard to train however, and may be a little too clingy for some households. Nevertheless, beagles are good and loyal dogs that are great for kids who like dogs that can be both active and calm.
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Newfoundland
This dog breed is gigantic, strong, and can be a bit intimidating at first glance. However, underneath that thick coat is a breed that is very intelligent, hardworking, well-mannered, and loyal.
The Newfoundland breed is popular for its very docile, patient demeanor, and is great with children. These dogs usually do not mind if kids play rough around them, and they are not too bothered by it because of their large size. However, supervision should be done with very small children as this heavy breed may knock them down by accident.
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Bull terrier
Affectionately known as “shark-heads” or “eggheads”, these dogs are very popular due to their uniquely shaped heads and snouts. Bull terriers are great with both animals and humans if they have been trained to be sociable, and are active dogs with a brave disposition.
Bull terriers are also known to be very loyal, well-mannered, and gentle with children. If you are an experienced dog-owner and you want an independent dog, then the bull terrier may be good for you.
Special Mention: Mutts! Worth mentioning are these mixed breed dogs that offer no less than unconditional love and affection to their owners.
Some Dog Breeds are Great with Children.
This doesn’t mean that the other ones aren’t! No matter what breed of dog you want, the right training and socialization always plays a big role. Any dog breed can be trained to be gentle around children. Need more information about behavioral dog training? Contact us 636-352-3104 or email positivepaws@sbcglobal.net.