Family-Friendly Pet Breeds: If you have high-energy toddlers at play in your living spaces, the last thing you’ll want to add to the mix is a snarling and hyper-aggressive dog breed that could potentially endanger your loved ones. That said, when shopping for a furry friend, you’ll need to keep a keen eye out for family-friendly dog breeds.
Families with children who are considering the purchase of a dog might want to look for a dog with the following traits:
- High-energy
- Loyal
- Gentle
- Friendly
- Intelligent
Families who want to take the guess-work out of the process should consider the following breeds:
Labrador Retriever
Labrador retrievers are well-known for their high level of intelligence and warm temperament—both must-have traits for a home with young children. You would also be hard-pressed to find a dog more loyal than a Labrador Retriever.
When shopping for Lab puppies, aspiring dog owners will need to note the color varieties available. Unlike Golden Retrievers, there are brown, yellow, black, and white Labrador Retriever variations. While there isn’t an intrinsic difference between a white and yellow lab, other than their coat color, some buyers are very selective and prefer white varieties over yellow labs.
Not surprisingly, white labs possess a paler coat than the yellow variety. Despite these coat color differences, the American Kennel Club identifies both color varieties as yellow labs. Therefore, the color of the dog you choose will play no part in their temperament, nor will it have a direct effect on your new Labrador Retriever’s energy level.
Poodles
Poodles are gentle and intelligent dogs that make for great playmates for small children. These loyal dogs come in standard and miniature sizes, so families can choose the dog size that best suits their current living arrangements.
Bull Terrier
Many families may be surprised to learn Bull Terriers make great companions for humans. The surprise results from the unfair perception that this dog breed is aggressive. The truth about these dogs is that they are loving and even-keeled when interacting with both adults and children.
Beagle
The Beagle’s easy temperament and small size make them a perfect choice for families with small children. The Beagle’s first breeders were in search of a high energy dog they could use for hunting.
Today, this breed is an integral part of families of all sizes. Their sturdy builds make them more than capable of handling hours upon hours of outdoor play.
Bull Dog
The Bull Dog is the perfect breed for families searching for an affectionate dog that’s intensely devoted to their children. While the Bull Dog is a docile and friendly breed, it’s not likely to be confused with some of the more energetic dogs available for families. The Bull Dog adapts well to both small and large living spaces. They also get along well with both humans and other dogs.
Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is an energetic and playful dog that is easily identified by its red coat. Irish are incredibly social and enjoy quality one-on-one time with their human homeowners, making them excellent playmates for high-energy children.
Before committing to an Irish Setter, you should note that this dog breed hates being alone, so they’re ideal choices for families that desire constant companionship from their dog. Besides snuggling with you on the couch after a long day’s work, they make the perfect greeter when visitors arrive.
For those homeowners interested in owning an Irish Setter, you’ll want to make sure you have a spacious yard. That way, your new pup can roam and release any pent-up energy.
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland breed is commonly referred to by dog lovers as nature’s babysitters. This dog breed is brilliant and very protective of the children in their family. Other words used to describe this dog breed include patient, kind, and gentle. Not to mention, they’re easy to train and take to water like a fish-in-training.
In terms of caring for a Newfoundland, this dog breed likes to play in large, open spaces. Families that own a Newfoundland will also need to devote additional time and effort to grooming their coats.
Wrap up
Gift your child with a furry friend, and watch your little ones cultivate a relationship that’s sure to last a lifetime. Aside from the companionship component, living in a home with dogs can teach your child responsibility, allow them to lead a more active lifestyle, and benefit from the serotonin-boosting effects of petting man’s best friend.
