If you have recently started a family, or your kids are begging you for a family dog, you may be wondering what are the best dogs for a family companion.
While there are many dog breeds that can fit into your home, these seven types of dogs are known for their adaptability to family households.
We are a lover of all dogs however we know that some dogs simply work better in a family atmosphere, especially with kids.
Take a look below at our top 7 picks for the best dogs to have as a family companion.
Golden Retrievers
Golden retrievers are one of the best dogs that any family could ask for.
They are well-known for being highly intelligent and friendly dogs.
Golden Retrievers fit into any home due to their pleasant and easily lovable personalities.
But, if you are looking for a guard dog, their cheery nature may disappoint in this regard.
These lovable dogs are easy to train and even more so when you find a great trainer.
Labradors
When it comes to having a dog around your children, a friendly personality is something that you will be looking for.
Labradors are known for being fantastic family dogs.
Although Labrador Retriever puppies do require a lot of attention and care, they will end up fitting right in.
Pugs
These funny-looking dogs are actually a lot sweeter than they look and make a perfect addition to a family.
You can trust them alone with your children and know that their calm personalities will work out well with your little ones and their antics.
Beagles
Beagles are strong enough to put up with rowdy children.
They are also friendly enough not to get bothered by them, making them ideal for any family unit.
These fun dogs do require a lot of exercise, but most dogs do. They would happily make a walking partner for your kids or for you.
Newfoundland
This dog breed isn't heard of a lot when talking about dogs that are good with children.
However, it is actually a fabulous animal to have in your home.
They love water, are very easy-going, and get along well with children.
Bulldogs
Bulldogs may look like angry dogs, but they are extremely calm animals that do well in family households.
While they aren't very active, they do require some exercise to avoid obesity.
They are stubborn, but easygoing and get along with children.
Collies
While it may seem cliché that a collie is a family dog, they have their reputation for a good reason.
They are very gentle dogs with active personalities, making them great dogs to have living with any family.
There are many dogs that do well with children and large families, but these seven are known for being the best dogs to have as a family companion!
Madison Finley says
Great list! I'll always have a soft spot for golden retrievers. They're so affectionate and eager to please.
Brandi Dawn says
This is a good list but neither of my doggos are on it! Haha. I am an equal opportunity dog lover. I dont think there is a breed I havent liked!
Janu says
I want a dog breed of large
barnold says
Thanks for this list. Good to know what breeds are generally safe with kids.
Natalie says
My brother has a goldendoodle which is a super family friendly dog!
Linda Szymoniak says
I'm glad to see Beagles on the list, although at this time of my life, I'm very into my Treeing Walker Coonhounds, which are lovingly referred to as Beagles on steroids. No two families are the same, so what dog is right for each can be different. Whatever you do, though, please ADOPT and don't shop!
Tamra Gibson says
We moved to the country about 8 years ago and we have got 2 labs . We got them about 5 years apart and loved them so. They both were stolen and i looked forever for them
Melissa Cole says
Very good list! Must save when it is time for us to choose our first family dog.
Rhea Chladek says
Those are all great suggestions. However, most of them are big dogs. Which small dogs do you recommend to have in a household with children? Sometimes, space limitations prevent having a larger dog.
Sarah L says
We had a Gold retriever when I was growing up. For sure the sweetest dog.
Chelsea Lindsay says
Thank you for sharing this. My husband and I are looking into getting a family dog. I had a collie growing up and he had land and a german shepherd. This is an awesome list.
Rachel says
This is a good list. Only Yorkies aren't on it 🙂