Adding a four-legged friend to your household is no small decision. Choosing one of the great family dogs can mean the difference between Instagram-worthy snuggles and replacing your third couch this year to those who want a dog to bring joy and companionship and teach children responsibility—without turning your home into a dog hair museum or your garden into an archaeological dig site.
When selecting a dog breed for your family, factors like temperament, size, energy level, and kid-friendliness should top your priority list. After all, that adorable puppy with the big eyes will eventually grow into either your children’s best playmate or your biggest household management challenge. As moms, we can tell you that adding a dog that meshes with your family’s lifestyle is like finding a babysitter who also cleans—pure gold!
What Makes a Great Family Dog Breed to Get?
Not all dogs are created equal when it comes to family compatibility. The best family dog breeds possess a gentle temperament that can withstand the occasional ear tug from a curious toddler. Patience ranks high on the list—a good family pet needs to tolerate the chaos that comes with household life without losing their canine cool.
Energy compatibility is another crucial factor—while some families need a dog that can keep pace with active kids, others might prefer a more laid-back companion who’s content with Netflix and chilling. Ease of training and loyalty complete the package of desirable traits.
Popular dog breeds fit for families often share these characteristics, though each brings their own special charm to the family dynamic. Some working dogs make the transition to family life beautifully, while other breeds were practically born to be around children.
The perfect dog for your family is out there—it just might take some “fetching” to find them! (Sorry, I couldn’t resist the pun—and it won’t be the last one, I promise!)
20+ Best Dog Breeds to Consider Being the Right Dog for your Family That are Good with Kids
Bernese Mountain Dog: Gentle Giant
If your ideal family member has four legs, weighs over 100 pounds, and occasionally drools, the Bernese Mountain Dog might be your ideal match. These gorgeous gentle giants rank among breeds that are good for families seeking a calm yet playful addition to their home.
This breed combines a striking tri-colored coat with an equally beautiful temperament. Originally bred as working dogs in Switzerland, these large dogs bring their strong work ethic to family life—though their primary job is accepting endless cuddles.
Their affectionate nature means they bond deeply with family members, and their patient disposition makes them particularly good with children.
Pros of the Bernese as a family pet:
- Exceptionally gentle with other dogs and kids, earning them the unofficial title of “nanny dog”
- Moderate energy levels—playful when appropriate, content to lounge otherwise
- Loyal to their core—they live to please their family
Cons to consider:
- That beautiful coat sheds… a lot
- Their large size requires ample space
- Shorter lifespan compared to smaller breeds (7-10 years)
This dog breed is known to make an excellent family dog for households with room to accommodate their size. While they’re not suited for families living in apartments, they’re surprisingly adaptable to suburban life despite their heritage. Just be prepared for strangers to constantly stop you on walks—these head-turners attract attention wherever they go!
Portuguese Water Dog: Energetic & Hypoallergenic
Looking for the best dog best suited for an active family AND won’t trigger your allergies? This dog might answer your family’s pet prayers. This intelligent breed skyrocketed in popularity after becoming the Obama family’s choice for White House canine companions—and for good reason.
Originally bred as fishing assistants in Portugal (hence the name—I’m not just being Captain Obvious), these medium sized dogs combine boundless energy with a hypoallergenic coat that makes them one of the best dog breeds for families with allergy concerns.
Key Traits that Make This Breed Awesome Family Pets:
- Hypoallergenic coat – ideal for families with allergy concerns
- Excellent swimmers – excellent for households that enjoy water activities
- Highly intelligent – among the smartest dog breeds, making them easy to train
- Playful nature – they’re wonderful playmates for kids of all ages
- Versatile companions – equally happy hiking or curling up for movie night
- Strong bonds – they form deep connections around their family members
- Good with other pets – when properly socialized, they integrate well into multi-pet households
Their intelligence makes training a relative breeze, though their cleverness sometimes translates to mischief when bored. Portuguese Water Dogs make excellent family dogs for busy families who can meet their exercise needs. If you’re seeking a versatile companion that’s great with children and good with other pets, this breed deserves serious consideration.
Top 10 Most Popular & Best Family Dogs for Families
When it comes to finding the ideal family dog, these popular breeds consistently make excellent family dogs. Each brings unique traits that might make them the perfect match for your household:
1. Golden Retriever: The golden standard (see what I did there?) for family dogs.
With their friendly disposition and seemingly infinite patience, Golden Retrievers consistently rank among the best family dogs. They’re gentle enough for infants and small children, yet sturdy enough for roughhousing with older kids. Their eager-to-please attitude makes them highly trainable, though their shedding might test your relationship with your vacuum cleaner.
2. Labrador Retriever: America’s most popular dog breed for good reason!
Labs combine playfulness with patience, making them ideal family companions. These versatile dogs adapt well to various living situations and energy levels. They’re essentially the Swiss Army knife of the canine world—capable of being hunting dogs one moment and snuggle buddies the next.
3. Beagle: For families wanting a smaller dog without small-dog attitude
Their curious, loving nature makes them wonderful with children. Beagles are sturdy enough to handle play without being overwhelming in size. Just be prepared for their notorious nose to lead them (and possibly your children) on neighborhood adventures if your fence has any weaknesses!
4. Boxer: The class clown of dog breeds, Boxers bring protective instincts and boundless energy
Their playful personality persists well into adulthood, making them perpetual playmates for children. Their short coat means less grooming, but their energy levels require commitment to exercise—think of them as your personal family fitness trainer with fur.
5. Collie: Thanks to Lassie, Collies have a reputation as the ultimate family heroes.
Beyond Hollywood, they truly are intelligent, gentle dogs that excel with children. Their herding instincts sometimes lead to attempting to corral small children—which might actually be helpful during preschool playdates!
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: For families seeking a smaller companion, these affectionate dogs offer big love in a compact package.
Good with kids and other pets, they adapt well to various living situations. Their gentle nature makes them excellent for kids and families.
7. Bulldog: Behind that grumpy face lies one of the most loyal, calm family companions available.
Bulldogs are particularly well-suited for less active families or those living in apartments. Their laid-back attitude is matched only by their snoring volume—consider it free white noise for napping babies!
8. Poodle: One of the smartest dog breeds, Poodles come in three sizes (standard, miniature, and toy), offering flexibility
Their hypoallergenic coat benefits families with allergies, and their intelligence makes them highly trainable. Despite their fancy appearance, they’re surprisingly athletic and make excellent companions for energetic families.
9. Newfoundland: If your new family motto is “go big or go home,” the Newfoundland delivers size and sweetness in equal measure.
Known for their gentle temperament and patience, these big dogs are gentle and famously good with children. They’re natural swimmers and protectors, though their drool production might require strategically placing towels throughout your home.
10. Dachshund: Proving good things come in small packages, these brave little dogs bring big personalities
Their playful nature and compact size make them great for families with children and various living situations, including apartments. They’re fiercely loyal to their family, though their stubborn streak can make training an exercise in negotiation rather than command.
Each of these breeds has earned their place among the top family dogs through generations of being good with kids, adapting to family life, and providing the companionship that makes a house feel like a home. The right choice depends on your specific family dynamics, living situation, and lifestyle needs.
Other Great Family Dogs Every Family Should Consider Owning
Large Dog Types vs. Small Dog: What’s Best for Your Family?
The eternal debate: should your family go big or opt for a more compact canine companion? There’s no universal answer—it’s about finding what fits your unique family puzzle.
Large Dog Breeds: The Bigger They Are, The Harder They…Love
Considerable dog breeds like the Newfoundland offer several advantages for families:
- Generally calmer indoors (contrary to what their size might suggest)
- More physically robust for families with active, sometimes rough-playing children
- Often more patient and less easily injured during enthusiastic play
- Make excellent pillows during family movie night
Great Dane: Despite their imposing size, Great Danes are known as “gentle giants” who form strong bonds with children and make excellent family companions. Their calm indoor demeanor makes them surprisingly suitable for family living despite their massive stature.
- Patient and gentle with children of all ages
- Require less exercise than many large breeds, making them manageable for moderately active families
- Protective without being aggressive—they’re natural guardians of their family
Saint Bernard: These legendary rescue dogs bring their nurturing instincts into family life, making them especially good with children and ideal family pets for those who don’t mind a little drool.
- Exceptionally patient and tolerant with kids
- Calm indoor energy levels despite their size
- Naturally protective of family members, particularly children
Irish Wolfhound: The tallest of all dog breeds, these gentle giants combine a sweet temperament with a low-key personality that fits well into family life despite their imposing size.
- Gentle and patient disposition, especially with children
- Low-energy indoors, content to lounge with the family
- Surprisingly good for families living in homes with adequate space
Leonberger: Created specifically to be a family companion, this large breed combines the best traits of Newfoundlands, Saint Bernards, and Great Pyrenees into an ideal family dog with a natural affinity for children.
- Exceptionally good with kids—patient, gentle, and tolerant
- Adaptable to family routines and schedules
- Balance of playfulness and calm demeanor suits diverse family dynamics
However, big dogs come with equally sizeable considerations:
- Food costs and veterinary bills tend to be higher
- Space requirements are greater, both indoors and in vehicles
- Their strength can be challenging for smaller family members to handle on leashes
- Shorter lifespans compared to smaller breeds (a difficult conversation with children)
Small Dog Breeds: Compact Companions for Families
Smaller breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Dachshund present different benefits:
- Adapt well to apartment living and smaller homes
- Lower food costs and sometimes lower veterinary expenses
- Easier to transport and travel with
- Generally longer lifespans
Havanese: Cuba’s national dog brings a cheerful, social personality to family life, making them one of the best small dog breeds for families with children of any age. These fluffy companions thrive on human interaction.
- Adaptable to any living situation, from apartments to large homes
- Gentle and patient with children while being sturdy enough for play
- Low-shedding coat beneficial for families with mild allergies
Boston Terrier: These “American Gentlemen” pack a lot of personality into a compact, family-friendly package. Their moderate energy and adaptable nature make them excellent family dogs for various household dynamics.
- Sturdy enough for play with children despite small size
- Generally quiet compared to other small breeds, ideal for family living
- Minimal grooming needs for busy family schedules
Cocker Spaniel: These beautiful, medium-small dogs combine the best traits of both worlds—small enough for easy management but sturdy enough for family play, making them ideal family companions.
- Gentle, sweet temperament especially good with children
- Highly trainable and eager to please family members
- Adaptable to various activity levels and living situations
French Bulldog: These charming, bat-eared companions have skyrocketed in popularity among families for good reason—they combine adaptability with an affectionate nature perfect for household life.
- Low exercise requirements fit busy family schedules
- Patient and sturdy despite small size—good with supervised children
- Minimal barking makes them apartment-friendly and neighbor-approved
But small doesn’t mean maintenance-free:
- Often more fragile and susceptible to injury from rough play
- Some small breeds can be more vocal (your neighbors may notice)
- May be more prone to anxiety in chaotic households
- Sometimes possess a “big dog” attitude that requires consistent training
The ideal size depends on your living situation, family activity levels, and long-term commitment. A suburban family with a fenced yard might thrive with a larger breed, while urban families might find more harmony with a smaller companion.
Remember, there are always exceptions to size-based generalizations—some large breeds are lazy couch potatoes, while certain small dogs could run circles around your athletic teenagers!
How to Choose the Perfect Puppy for Your Lifestyle
Let’s be honest here, finding a suitable dog for your family is a bit like online dating—you need to be honest about what you’re looking for and what you can offer. Before you fall head over heels for those puppy eyes, consider these family-specific factors:
Home Sweet Home: Your living space significantly narrows your options.
A spacious home with a fenced yard opens possibilities for larger, more active breeds, while apartment dwellers should consider size, energy level, and bark volume (unless you enjoy neighborly complaints).
Family Energy Profile: Be brutally honest about your family’s activity level.
Do you genuinely hike every weekend, or is that just an aspirational Pinterest board? Involved families will thrive with laboring dogs or sporting breeds like Labrador Retrievers, while busy families with less leisure time might be happier with lower-energy companions like Bulldogs.
Allergen Alert: Nothing disrupts family harmony like constant sneezing.
If allergies are a concern, consider hypoallergenic breeds like the Poodle. Remember, no dog is 100% allergen-free, so arrange a “test snuggle” before committing.
Grooming Reality Check: That fluffy coat might look adorable in photos, but are you prepared for the maintenance?
Some breeds require professional grooming every 6-8 weeks plus daily brushing. Be realistic about your tolerance for dog hair on furniture, clothing, and occasionally in your morning coffee.
When evaluating potential breeds, look beyond current trends or cute puppies. Consider your family ten years from now—will this breed still fit your lifestyle when today’s toddler becomes a teenager? The sweet puppy grows into a dog that is great with kids and will make the best family pet when it comes to choosing the right dog for your lifestyle.
Training and Socialization: Keys That Make Great Family Pets Who are Good with Children
Even the best-suited dog breed requires proper training and socialization to become a truly wonderful family pet. Think of it as the difference between raising a child with manners and one who eats crayons and bites strangers—nature matters, but nurture seals the deal.
- Early socialization is non-negotiable
- Expose your puppy to different people, sounds, and experiences (before 16 weeks)
- Includes gentle, supervised interactions with children and other dogs of various ages and energy levels
Consistent training benefits the entire household. Establish family-friendly routines where everyone uses the same commands and reinforcement techniques. Nothing confuses a dog more than one family member allowing couch privileges while another enforces a strict “floor only” policy.
Quick Tips for Family Dog Ownership Success:
- Involve children in age-appropriate training tasks to build the human-canine bond
- Teach both children AND dogs appropriate interaction boundaries
- Reward calm behavior around children—excitement is contagious and can escalate quickly
- Never leave young children and dogs unsupervised, regardless of breed reputation
Remember that training isn’t a destination but a lifelong journey when getting a dog. The effort invested in the early months pays dividends in years of harmonious family life with a well-adjusted canine companion who knows how to behave around your human pack.
FAQ: Common Questions About Best Dog Breeds for Families
Q: Which dog breed is easiest to train for busy families?
A: Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers consistently rank among the easiest breeds to train to become members of the family, combining intelligence with an eager-to-please attitude. Poodles are equally intelligent but sometimes more independent thinkers. Avoid breeds known for stubbornness like Beagles or terriers for families with limited training time.
Q: Are mixed breeds good family pets?
A: Absolutely! A variety of breeds often combine the best traits of their heritage and frequently have fewer health issues than purebreds. Shelter staff can provide valuable insights into a mixed-breed dog’s temperament and energy level. Many families find great playmates for kids, the —”mystery mutt” —that brings unique character to their home.
Q: What breeds are best for families living in apartments?
A: Size doesn’t always dictate apartment suitability—energy level and barking tendencies matter more. Bulldogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and surprisingly, Greyhounds (who are actually apartment-sized couch potatoes) adapt well to apartment living. Always check breed-specific restrictions before falling in love with a dog your landlord won’t allow!
Q: Which dog breeds shed the least for clean-freak parents?
A: For families concerned about fur tumbleweeds in the corner, consider Poodles, Portuguese Water Dogs, or Bichon Frises. These breeds have hair rather than fur and shed minimally. Remember that “low-shedding” usually means “high-grooming”—that hair continues growing and requires regular maintenance.
Q: How do I choose between similar breeds like Golden Retrievers and Labradors?
A: While these breeds share many family-friendly traits, subtle differences might tip the scales. Goldens tend to be slightly more sensitive and people-oriented, while Labs are often more food-motivated (making training treats extra effective). Goldens typically have longer coats requiring more grooming, while Labs have more weather-resistant fur ideal for outdoor families.
Choosing the Best Dog is Summed Up Like This:
The journey to finding the right dog breed for your family might seem overwhelming—after all, you’re not just getting a pet; you’re adding a new family member who will share your lives for a decade or more. Take comfort in knowing that while breed tendencies matter, individual dog personality and proper training ultimately determine your family-canine harmony.
Whether you choose a big dog like a Bernese Mountain Dog, an energetic companion like a Portuguese Water Dog, or any of the excellent family dogs we’ve discussed, the rewards of dog ownership extend far beyond having someone excited when you walk through the door (though that never gets old).
Children who grow up with dogs often develop greater empathy, responsibility, and understanding of life’s cycles.
The cuddle-worthy family dog creates memories that will last generations—from first walks with wobbly puppies to faithful companions seeing your children off to college. Choose wisely, train consistently, and love abundantly. Your future family pet is out there wagging its tail, just waiting to complete your family and become the best dog for your family!
You might also be interested in…
Now that you are seriously considering adding to your pack, you will need some new puppy supplies!
CONNECT WITH DAILY MOM
💖 NEWSLETTER: DAILY READS IN YOUR INBOX 💖
Sign up to receive our picks for the best things to do, see and buy so you can relax and focus on more important tasks! Let us help you be the best version of yourself you can be!
BE SOCIAL WITH US
📌 LOVE IT? PIN IT!📌
