The top 9 dog breeds for Kids

1. Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a confident, smart, kind, and loyal dog. Neither aggressive nor timid, the Golden Retriever is extremely patient, which makes them a perfect match for kids. One of the quintessential dog breeds for children, the golden retriever is very playful, affectionate, friendly with kids, social and intelligent, responding well to training. Golden retrievers are also very adaptable and will want to tag along during family outings and adventures. Proper care for their glorious golden coats requires twice weekly brushing, and while the breed is adapted to live outdoors, they’d really prefer to be indoors, with their humans, most of the time.

2. Labrador retriever

This is one of the most popular dog breeds, and for good reason — the Labrador retriever is playful, patient, loving, protective, and reliable. Labs are highly intelligent, and take well to training. It loves to swim and frolic in the water or on the land. They also aren’t too large, ranging in weight from 55 to 80 pounds, on average. Always up for an adventure, Labrador retrievers are eager to tag along any family adventure.

3. Poodle

The Poodle also happens to be a very smart and gentle dog. The breed is available in both miniature and standard sizes. They’re great for kids with allergies, as they shed very little.

They’re also considered one of the goofiest, creating an ideal personality for a family pet. Super affectionate, playful and happy, this dog breed likes to socialize and is easily adaptable to its surroundings. If you have a child with allergies or dander sensitivity, the poodle’s low-shed fur can also offer some relief.

4. Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is nicknamed the Gentle Giant for very good reasons: an easygoing temperament, lots of love for children, and at maturity stands around the same height as a bed, making it easy for bedtime snuggles and tuck-ins. The Newfoundland is also smart — this breed is a water dog with life-saving instincts and likes to tag along on hikes and other outdoor adventures. Socialization and training from an early age will help you manage the behavior of this 100 to 150-pound breed.

5. Beagle

The Beagle’s small size and calm temperament make him a great choice for families, and if your kids love the outdoors, this breed will fit right in, since there’s nothing they love more than exploring outside and taking to the trails. Beagles were originally kept as hunting dogs, and their sturdy build means they’re never too tired to play games. Smart, friendly, and happy, the Beagle usually gets along with other pets too. However, they do shed, and require frequent brushing and bathing.

6. Bull Terrier

This dog breed is happiest when with family and is a natural protector. A medium-to large-sized dog, weighing between 45 and 80 pounds, the bull terrier is a good playmate for children, can withstand some roughhousing and has a healthy amount of energy to burn. Early socialization is recommended to discourage any territorial behavior, whether it be over food, space, toys or people.

7. Collie

Collies are a gentle and predictable breed, rarely misbehaving and easily trainable and so is perfect for families that are unfamiliar with dogs. Collies get along great with children and love to please their owners and protect their family. Because of the Collie's long hair, the breed requires regular grooming to keep its coat in tip-top shape. A sensitive and intelligent breed, Collies are both gentle and stubborn, so keep obedience training is advised.

8. Vizsla

The vizsla has a gentle disposition and manner and is loyal, affectionate and quiet, perfect for your little ones to play with. Viszlas are obedient, confident and smart, forming close bonds with their family and able to learn new tricks quickly. They might be too rambunctious indoors and need at least an average-size backyard to play in. Make sure they're happy and healthy, and they can live up to 15 year.

9. Irish Setter

Known for its red coat, the Irish setter is playful and energetic, loves being around people and plays well with children. This doggy needs lots of exercise and is a good match for energetic kids. A smart and trainable companion, the Irish setter is perfect for people with lots of space but isn't what one would call a good apartment dweller.