Which dog breeds are best for families with young children?
Short answer
The AKC advises families to look for a dog with an outgoing, friendly personality that's affectionate with the whole family, noting that some breeds are more patient with younger kids while others do better with older children. Choosing well takes thoughtful consideration of your lifestyle, home, and your children's ages, so match the dog to your household rather than pick from a list alone.
Sourced from veterinary authorities · not a diagnosis · anything risky goes to a vet.
Who this is for
Families with children choosing a dog breed in the US or Canada.
When this doesn’t apply
- Guaranteeing any individual dog is safe or gentle with kids (that depends on the specific dog, its history, and training)
- Deciding whether your family is ready for a dog at all
What changes the answer
- Your children's ages and how the dog will be supervised around them
- Home size and access to a yard or exercise space
- How much time the family has for training, grooming, and exercise
- Whether anyone in the home has allergies
Common mistakes
- Assuming any dog is automatically safe with young children without adult supervision
- Choosing by breed reputation instead of meeting the individual dog and asking about its temperament
- Underestimating a high-energy breed's exercise needs in a busy household with kids
Sources
- Best Family Dogs: Which Breed Is Right for You? — American Kennel Club · Tier 2 · verified 2026-07-20
Common questions
What traits make a good family dog?
The AKC points to an outgoing, friendly personality that's loving with the whole family, and notes some breeds are more patient with younger kids while others suit older children better.
Is breed the most important factor?
It's one factor. The AKC frames the choice as thoughtful consideration of your lifestyle, home, and children's ages; an individual dog's temperament and training matter a great deal too.
Should young kids ever be left alone with a dog?
No. Regardless of breed, young children and dogs should be supervised together to keep both safe.