Dog Breeds for Kids – Top 40

In this article, you will learn which dogs are best for children and which pets are best for schoolchildren. We will tell you why a child needs a dog at all and how to prepare for the arrival of a new four-legged family member. And at the end of the article, we will answer the questions that come to us most often, including: “Which dogs are the kindest?” and “Will children and puppies be safe with each other?”

Dogs and children

Be careful when choosing a dog breed for children if you are serious about getting a pet in your family. Some breeds may not be interested in children, while others may be aggressive. Some animals are naturally very child-oriented and make good nannies, even for toddlers. For an introverted child, a dog can become a close friend, and for an extrovert, a companion in all games and pranks. When communicating with dogs, children develop responsibility, punctuality, and empathy. Before getting a dog, have a preparatory conversation with your child.

What to talk about with your child:

1. Explain to your child that having a dog is a responsibility for the next 10-15 years. Watch movies together about dog loyalty. Your child should understand that a pet is not a toy and cannot be put away under the closet if you suddenly get tired of it.
2. Get tested for allergies. Allergies may not manifest themselves with temporary contact with a dog.
3. Take your child for a walk in bad weather. Tell him that you can’t skip walks with your dog even in the rain or frost.
4. Take a dog from friends or volunteers for temporary stay. Show that a dog is not only games, but also daily work, sometimes not very pleasant. Let the child participate in cleaning dirty dog diapers, washing and feeding the dog.
5. Ask the breeder about the possibility of returning the dog. Think about what you will do if you do not get along with the dog at all.

Best Dog Breeds for Kids

We studied breed standards, reviews of breeders and owners to compile a list of the 40 best dog breeds for children. It turned out that small pets are not always the best option for a family with a baby, and large dog breeds can be good nannies for children and are great for keeping in an apartment. For convenience, we divided the top dogs for children into three categories: small, medium and large.

Yorkshire Terrier

height at withers: 15-18 cm

weight: 2-3.5 kg

life expectancy: 12-15 years

coat: hypoallergenic, long, smooth, requires periodic trimming

A miniature dog with a brave character. Likes to be seen, will support any activity, and is easy to train. Yorkies do not like being grabbed by the tail or fur and can react to this aggressively. Therefore, they are more suitable for children from 6 years old who already understand how to behave with a pet. And children can inadvertently harm the pet.

pug

height at withers: 25-33 cm

weight: 5.5-8.5 kg

life expectancy: 13-15 years

wool: thick, short, falls out in large quantities

A pug will be a great companion for your child. Suitable for children of any age. Pugs are patient, almost never snap at children. Will support your child in any game or just lie nearby if the baby is not inclined to active games. This dog will bark to inform adults if, for example, the child has climbed too high or is in danger of any other household danger.

French Bulldog

height at withers: 25-35 cm

weight: 8-10 kg

life expectancy: 10-14 years

coat: dense, short

French bulldogs are very good at sensing their owner’s mood. This quality helps them get closer to children. A French bulldog will become a devoted friend to your child, will support him when he is sad. This is not a very active dog, but not a languid one either. It reacts calmly to surrounding irritants, almost never barks.

Jack Russell Terrier

height at withers: 25-30 cm

weight: 4-6 kg

life expectancy: 13-16 years

wool of three types: smooth, hard, intermediate

An active breed that requires a lot of attention. Suitable for children from 6 years old. Jack Russells do not tolerate being squeezed too much. Therefore, be sure to be present during the first games of the child and the dog. Will become a great accomplice in games for a mischievous child. If your child has a calm character, then it is better to consider another breed.

Pomeranian Spitz

height at withers: 18-24 cm

weight: 2-3.5 kg

life expectancy: 12-16 years

coat: soft, with dense, thick undercoat

This breed is suitable for children from 6 years old, as it has a fragile constitution. The child must understand that he can harm the dog. Spitz are not jealous, kind, have a gentle character. They need constant communication. An ideal breed for training.

Maltese

height at withers: 20-25 cm

weight: 3-4 kg

life expectancy: 12-14 years

wool: long, similar in structure to human hair

This is a very smart dog, but there may be problems with its training. It chooses one owner and is devoted only to him, even if there are many people in the family. It needs constant communication. The Maltese easily finds a common language with children, will happily play a lot and will not show aggression, even if the child noticeably pulls its fur. Children usually love this breed for its doll-like appearance.

Bichon Frise

height at withers: 25-30 cm

weight: 3-5 kg

life expectancy: 12-15 years

coat: curly, thick, long, silky

Bichon Frise is an obedient and easy to train dog. Males are better trained than females. This dog needs constant human attention, loves to be looked at a lot. Will happily accompany the family on a hike. Suitable for both an active and a calm child. Bichon Frise is one of the best breeds of small dogs that are suitable for an apartment and children.

Affenpinscher

height at withers: 24-28 cm

weight: 3-5 kg

life expectancy: 12-14 years

wool: hard, sticking out

A temperamental dog that resembles a brownie. Affenpinschers need early socialization, and you need to be strict with them in matters of upbringing. This breed is suitable for families with teenage children. Affenpinschers perceive small children as competitors. Teenagers will find it interesting to train this dog. Despite all their energy, Affenpinschers can spend a lot of time at home and do without long walks.

Italian Greyhound

height at withers: 32-38 cm

weight: 3-5 kg

life expectancy: 13-14 years

coat: short, smooth

Italian Greyhounds start to tremble from nervous overexcitement or from the cold. This is a distinctive feature of the breed. They are similar in character to cats, do not like dampness and look for warmer places in the house. This breed is suitable for a child from 10 years old with a calm character, as they do not like a lot of noise. Italian Greyhounds express love for the owner tactilely, they like to rub against him and lick him.

Chinese Crested

height at withers: 23-33 cm

weight: 2-6 kg

life expectancy: 11-14 years

hair: long – on the head, paws and tail, body – bald

The Chinese Crested is very sensitive to temperature changes. Therefore, it is best to buy such a dog for a child in an apartment. In cool weather, it needs clothes even at home. Suitable for school-age children. Learns tricks well. Devoted to the owner, but needs constant attention. Cannot spend much time alone.

Pekingese

height at withers: 15-25 cm

weight: 3-5.5 kg

life expectancy: 13-15 years

coat: long, hard with soft undercoat

Suitable for families with teenage children. Pekingese do not like to be cuddled. They can be aggressive towards small children. A Pekingese can become a good friend if a child understands that the dog cannot be picked up too often. Belongs to companion dogs. Can get sick if left without attention for a long time.

Chihuahua

height at withers: 15-23 cm

weight: 1-3 kg

life expectancy: 13-16 years

coat: dense, short or long, smooth, silky

This breed is very attached to its owner, accompanies him literally at every step. If you leave the Chihuahua alone for a long time, it will start to take revenge. Suitable for children from 6 years old. Can be jealous of small children. At first, you will need to control the communication of the child and the dog so that both understand the rules of communication. But then the Chihuahua will be affectionate and playful.

Shih Tzu

height at withers: 23-28 cm

weight: 4.5-8 kg

life expectancy: 11-16 years

coat: very long, thick and hard

Shih Tzu is a companion dog. It has a stable psyche and a calm character. However, without constant attention it can become irritable. Shih Tzu loves children of any age. Their fur needs constant washing and trimming. Keep in mind that such care may fall on your shoulders.

Cairn Terrier

height at withers: 28-31 cm

weight: 6-8 kg

life expectancy: 13-15 years

coat: hard, sticking out, with a fluffy and thick undercoat

An active dog that needs to be walked a lot. The Cairn Terrier will start barking at any irritant if left alone for a long time. These animals love children and will happily support them in any games. Cairn Terriers love to eat and will beg for treats. Therefore, make sure that the child does not overfeed the pet.

Russian Toy Terrier

height at withers: 20-28 cm

weight: 1.5-3 kg

life expectancy: 10-12 years

coat: short, dense

Russian Toy Terriers can study their owner’s weaknesses well and use them. They do not like being scolded and can be offended for a long time. They are friendly, sociable, but quite anxious. Therefore, it is better to have them in a family with school-age children.

Best Medium Dog Breeds for Kids

Corgi

height at withers: 25-30 cm

weight: 9-14 kg

life expectancy: 12-15 years

coat: hard with developed undercoat, falls out profusely

Due to the peculiarities of the skeletal structure of the Corgi , you cannot climb stairs until three months and go down – until six. This breed is suitable for a large family, understands the mood of the owners well and will not bother when it is inappropriate. The Corgi will be both a nanny and a friend to your child, will not show discontent or aggression.

English Bulldog

height at withers: 50-55 cm

weight: 23-25 kg

life expectancy: 7-10 years

coat: short, dense, without undercoat

Dogs of this breed are slow and do not like long walks. They treat children the way their owners do, that is, they copy their behavior. They will take care of the younger members of the family and play with them, and will tolerate all inconveniences. But keep in mind that English bulldogs are prone to flatulence and increased salivation.

Welsh Terrier

height at withers: 35-39 cm

weight: 9-9.5 kg

life expectancy: 12-15 years

wool: hard, wiry

An active dog that needs constant training and firm upbringing. When walking, it loves to dig the ground. Suitable for children from 6 years old, younger children may get tired. Will accompany your child in all games and pranks. Remains highly active until old age.

Border Collie

height at withers: 47-53 cm

weight: 15-20 kg

life expectancy: 12-15 years

coat: long or short, with a soft, dense undercoat

The Border Collie is considered the smartest breed. Initially, these animals were used to herd sheep. After a course of training, it will become a good companion and a nanny dog for children. Needs long walks, will feel best in your own home with a large garden area.

Miniature Poodle

height at withers: 35-45 cm

weight: 8-14 kg

life expectancy: 12-15 years

wool: curly, corded

One of the best dogs for children. They have high intelligence, and are happy to learn commands. They are kind and obedient by nature. This breed is suitable for large families, as it is characterized by great endurance. It does not show aggression, even if children squeeze the dog excessively.

English Cocker Spaniel

height at withers: 38-41 cm

weight: 13-14.5 cm

life expectancy: 12-14 years

wool: soft, thick, silky

The English Cocker Spaniel is a family dog breed. Spaniels need long physical exercise and games. Start training your pet from an early age, and then it will be neat around the house. These dogs are friendly and will happily play ball or frisbee. Cocker Spaniels are prone to overeating, so make sure that children do not give them treats.

Sheltie

height at withers: 32-40 cm

weight: 7-12 kg

life expectancy: 12-14 years

coat: long, smooth, thick

Shelties often participate in dog shows because they love attention, are playful and easy to train. They have a hard time being left home alone. This breed is suitable for an active extroverted child. But the Sheltie is very curious and will try everything that interests her. Therefore, keep children’s toys away from the dog to avoid any incidents.

Beagle

height at withers: 33-40 cm

weight: 8-18 kg

life expectancy: 11-15 years

coat: short, smooth, hard

Beagles do not tolerate loneliness well and need a lot of exercise. They will bark if they are not walked enough. Beagles are suitable for children from 6 years old. These dogs will get along well with them and will involve their little owners in active games. However, do not leave the child and dog unattended in large open spaces. The beagle can get carried away and run away.

Collie

height at withers: 51-61 cm

weight: 19-34 kg

life expectancy: 12-13 years

coat: thick, long, straight, hard

It is considered one of the most peaceful dogs, gets along well with other animals. Will become a wonderful nanny and friend for a child of any age. This dog is quite active, but at the same time shows moderation in games. Collie’s coat requires constant careful care.

Basset Hound

height at withers: 28-38 cm

weight: 20-34 kg

life expectancy: 10-12 years

coat: short, smooth, dense

Basset Hounds should not be left alone for long periods of time, otherwise they will start to entertain the neighbors with a loud voice similar to the sounds of a trumpet. They need to be walked a lot. Representatives of this breed love to play with children of any age and stoically tolerate excessive attention. Basset Hounds need good training, as they can be very stubborn.

Samoyed dog

height at withers: 50-55 cm

weight: 15-30 kg

life expectancy: 12-15 years

coat: long, hard, straight, with dense undercoat

A hardy dog that has almost no breed-specific diseases. It feels best in a large family or in the company of other animals, since it is originally a pack dog. It is smart and selfless by nature. It gets along well even with small children, loves to play with them and act as a nanny. Samoyeds are among the dog breeds that are best suited for your own home and playing with children outside.

Whippet

height at withers: 44-51 cm

weight: 10-12 kg

life expectancy: 12-14 years

coat: short, smooth, dense

In cold weather, whippets need clothing because they have virtually no fat. This breed is suitable for a large, athletic family. Whippets need to be played with and trained constantly. However, they are only energetic outside; they prefer to rest at home. These animals are affectionate, gentle, and treat children of all ages well.

Shar Pei

height at withers: 40-51 cm

weight: 18-35 kg

life expectancy: 8-12 years

coat: short, bristly, without undercoat

Shar Pei are smart, obedient dogs. They choose one owner, whom they will obey. To communicate with a small child, it is better to train a Shar Pei with a specialist. The dog will begin to understand that the baby must be treated with caution. It will be happy to accompany all family members on walks, but will not show much enthusiasm for games.

Best Large Dog Breeds for Kids

Saint Bernard

height at withers: 65-90 cm

weight: 54-82 kg

life expectancy: 9-11 years

coat: long, smooth, hard, with dense undercoat

Ideal large dogs for children of any age. They will not harm the child, even if the baby decides to ride them. They get along well with other animals. They are considered rescue dogs. They are calm and friendly by nature, they tolerate temporary loneliness well. They like to walk a lot, but cardio loads are harmful for them.

Dalmatian

height at withers: 54-62 cm

weight: 24-32 kg

life expectancy: 10-13 years

coat: short, thick, hard, falls out profusely

This breed became popular thanks to Disney cartoons. But for the dog to have the same good character, it needs to be trained. The owner will need confidence and persistence. With proper upbringing, the Dalmatian will become a devoted friend to you and your children. Dogs of this breed are hyperactive, so they need to be walked a lot.

Golden Retriever

height at withers: 51-61 cm

weight: 25-41.5 kg

life expectancy: 12-13 years

coat: long, soft, with dense undercoat

Golden retrievers are cheerful and people-oriented. They will gladly participate in all family affairs. Dogs of this breed have high intelligence, are easy to train, and are not aggressive. They are suitable for children of any age and will be a good nanny for them.

Labrador

height at withers: 53-61 cm

weight: 25-34 kg

life expectancy: 12-13 years

coat: short, hard, with dense undercoat

Labradors need to be walked a lot and their diet should be monitored, as they are prone to obesity. Dogs of this breed get along well with children of any age, and are very careful with babies. They are friendly and not aggressive by nature. Breeders rate Labradors as one of the most loyal and obedient dogs.

Komondor

height at withers: 65-80 cm

weight: 40-60 kg

life expectancy: 10-12 years

wool: long, soft, forms into cords

Komondors are quite wayward dogs, they will think before they follow the owner’s command. They need strong physical exercise. They show serious guard qualities. On walks they will protect family members if they suspect danger. They are friendly with children.

Weimaraner

height at withers: 57-70 cm

weight: 23-32 kg

life expectancy: 10-13 years

coat: short, soft, wavy

The Weimaraner is very devoted to its owner and does not tolerate loneliness well. Therefore, it is better to keep these dogs in pairs. Weimaraners are good with children, but they can respond to excessive attention, for example, by hitting their nose. This breed is best kept in a family with children over 8 years old. Weimaraners need active physical exercise.

German shepherd

height at withers: 55-65 cm

weight: 22-40 kg

life expectancy: 10-13 years

coat: long, hard, thick, with dense undercoat

German Shepherds are considered exemplary for training, have a powerful intellect. They understand what is expected of them and how to behave in a particular situation. These qualities allow them to be good nannies. They treat small children with care, and can become loyal friends for teenagers.

Newfoundland

height at withers: 65-70 cm

weight: 54-68 kg

life expectancy: 9-11 years

coat: thick, long, straight, with thick and thin undercoat

Newfoundlands are often used as guide dogs. They are smart, sensitive, and very owner-oriented. When training, you need to be careful not to raise your voice, as this can greatly offend the dog. They are not inclined to play, so Newfoundlands need to be encouraged to be active, for example, by using their natural love of water. They love children of any age, care for them, and tolerate excessive attention.

Airedale

height at withers: 56-61 cm

weight: 20-28 kg

life expectancy: 11-13 years

coat: short, hard, with dense undercoat

Airedale Terriers need constant physical activity, otherwise they will become sluggish and emotionless. These dogs are cunning by nature and will support any adventure. However, the breed is not suitable for small children. The child must understand that the Airedale Terrier cannot be grabbed and pulled abruptly.

Russian Black Terrier

height at withers: 66-72 cm

weight: 45-50 kg

life expectancy: 10-11 years

coat: soft, long, thick, with dense undercoat

The Russian Black Terrier is a guard dog. It needs to be raised by the whole family to make it a friendly dog. In this case, the Russian Terrier will selflessly love all family members and will happily spend time with them. It has high intelligence and a stable psyche. With proper upbringing, it will find contact with children of any age.

Bernese Mountain Dog

height at withers: 58-70 cm

weight: 36-50 kg

life expectancy: 8-10 years

coat: long, thick, soft, falls out profusely

Despite its size, this dog is well suited for an apartment, but needs long walks. Bernese Mountain Dogs are big good-natured creatures in every sense. They get along with all pets, love children of any age and will tolerate all their pranks.

Giant Schnauzer

height at withers: 60-70 cm

weight: 35-47 kg

life expectancy: 12-15 years

coat: hard, medium length and density

Giant Schnauzers need good training and long walks. They will begin to undermine the authority of the owner if they spend a lot of time alone. Giant Schnauzers are not nanny breeds, so it is better to have them in a family with school-age children. They will become good companions in games.

Answers to frequently asked questions

What breed of dog is best to have in an apartment for a family with children?
Consider the shedding characteristics and character of the dog if you want to choose a pet for an apartment. Active breeds can start howling, ruining furniture and things if they do not have enough exercise. We have chosen breeds that are prone to languid behavior at home and will not feel withdrawn in an apartment.

Dog breeds that can be kept in an apartment for a child:

• pug
• French Bulldog
• Maltese
• Bichon Frise
• Chinese Crested
• Russian Toy Terrier
• Corgi
• miniature poodle
• collie
• whippet
• Saint Bernard
• Bernese Mountain Dog

Is it possible to have a dog if there is a baby in the house?

Cynologists do not recommend getting a dog until the child is 2 years old, or better yet, 5 years old. You will need time to warm up to the pet, understand its character and raise it. At first, you may be biased towards the dog and worry about the child. Older children understand better that the dog should not be pulled too much, and they can also share with you the responsibilities of caring for the pet.

Puppies and Children – Is It a Good Idea?

A puppy is suitable for a school-age child. A schoolchild will already understand that you need to handle your pet carefully, not grab it and give it time to sleep. If your child is still a baby, then a puppy can become a second child for you. Keep in mind that puppies need to be fed up to 5 times a day, they can get sick more often and are not accustomed to asking to go to the toilet. They also need to be protected from excessive attention from small children. Assess whether you have enough strength for increased attention to two children at once.

Which dog breeds are the kindest and love children?

Kind dogs are mostly in the category of large breeds. These animals will tolerate all the pinches, pokes and even the desire to ride them from children. We have classified the kindest dogs as those that do not show aggression and are ready to pay attention to the child in large quantities.

Dog breeds that love children include:

• Maltese
• shih tzu
• border collie
• miniature poodle
• collie
• Golden Retriever
• Saint Bernard
• Labrador
• Newfoundland
• Bernese Mountain Dog
• Giant Schnauzer

What breed of dog should you choose and buy for your child?

When choosing a breed, focus on the child’s character and the activity of your family. Some dogs need to be constantly in the center of a large family, play a lot and often in the fresh air. Alone and without walks, they can become indifferent or, conversely, irritable. There are breeds that do not need constant direct attention. It is enough for them to simply lie next to the little owner and feel his presence.

We recommend considering the following breeds:

• pug
• shih tzu
• Corgi
• basset hound
• border collie
• Sheltie
• miniature poodle
• collie
• German shepherd
• Samoyed dog
• Golden Retriever
• Saint Bernard
• Labrador
• Bernese Mountain Dog