Best Dog Breeds for Kids

Congratulations! After a lot of consideration, you’ve decided to get a dog to join your family. You’ve weighed all the pros and cons, doled out the responsibilities, and have already started picking out names for your future fido. But the one thing you haven’t decided is what kind of dog to get. If you’re looking for a dog that will be a good match for you kids, these breeds are generally a good choice.

Bull Dogs

If you’re looking for a patient dog who will be very affectionate toward your kids, the Bull Dog is your pup. With its sturdy build, this dog is perfect for kids who like to roughhouse, but it is also a low-energy and docile breed. It’s important to remember that since Bull Dogs have a compressed jaw, they’ll need some extra care to avoid dental and respiratory problems.

Bull Terriers

Contrary to popular belief that they’re aggressive animals, Bull Terriers are actually very friendly and loving dogs. Beyond that, they are also a good breed to choose if your children are bit rough during playtime. Bull Terriers are sometimes mischievous, so it’s best they’re in homes that provide them with plenty of stimulating activities and backyard space to play in.

Newfoundlands

There’s a reason these gentle giants are nicknamed  “Nature’s Babysitters.” Newfoundlands are considered one of the smartest breeds in the canine world and are very protective of the children in their lives. Easily trained and task-oriented, they should be in a home with a lot of space since they are large-sized pooches.

Golden Retriever

It’s probably no surprise that this breed made our list. Golden Retrievers are extremely loyal, patient, and smart, making them a great match for your kids. They love to play, especially retrieving games like fetch and frisbee (pun intended). With their obedient and loving nature, a Golden Retriever is sure to make a great addition to your family.

Remember:

Just because certain breeds didn’t make it to our list, it doesn’t mean that they won’t be wonderful matches for your family. Plenty of breeds are great family pets, even ones you may not ever have thought of, such as Dobermans and Pitbulls. What it comes down to is an individual dog’s connection with your family, as well as its energy level, size, and personal temperament. Never rule out a dog just because of its breed. All dogs just want to find a family to love that will love them back.

Once you have your new dog, you’ll need a trusted veterinarian to care for them — you’ll need Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital. We care for your pets as if they were our own, and even offer free vaccines or a free exam for new patients! Keep your dog healthy from day one, and call us at 908-464-0023 for more information or to schedule an appointment.