choosing a dog breed

5 best dog breeds for kids

Musfira khubaib khan
4 min readAug 20, 2022

Which dog breed is the best fit for your family? Which dog breed is perfect for kids? Adding a new dog to your family can be a bit hard to decide which breed to go for, especially when you have kids at home…. keep in mind, that dogs still lie under the category of beasts. Some high-energy breeds may bond well with the older kids but when you have younger kids at home you look for safer options. Potentially you would want a breed that has a gentle, playful, and protective nature.

Although there are dog breed selectors, available online to help you choose the perfect family dog for you but it is always a wise decision to do a research of your own.

1. LABRADOR RETRIEVER

Labrador retriever is ranked as the no.1 dog breed in the world.

The Labrador Retriever holds the top spot, and this friendly favorite has been no.1 since 1991.

Personality: They are extremely friendly, outgoing, and playful , eager to please their owner. They possess a calm, patient, and decent personality as they are not among the barky dogs.

Training and grooming needs: they are easily trainable which makes them suitable for all family types . Their grooming needs are a bit high as they shed regularly and require weekly brushing.

Activity level: Labs are even-tempered companions, they are enthusiastic and energetic. They require a minimum of 1- hour of exercise daily.

Life expectancy: Labrador retriever has a life expectancy of 10–12 years.

2. GOLDEN RETRIEVER

Golden retrievers are best known family dogs. They have a dashing and elegant appearance.

Personality: Golden retrievers are intelligent, devoted, and friendly dogs. They have adorable personalities and are good companions with kids. They only bark when necessary which means they won’t bother you and your neighborhood.

Training and grooming needs: This elegant breed of dog owns an agreeable personality and require occasional grooming.

Activity level: They are highly active and playful dogs, yet they are gentle with kids.

Life expectancy: Retrievers have a life expectancy of 10- 12 years

3. POODLE

Known for their cute and fashionable haircuts, poodles are adored by kids.

Personality: Poodles have a fun and loving nature. They are caring, smart, and loyal , moreover, they don't get annoyed easily which makes them an ideal choice for kids. They need a good amount of attention, they might develop bad habits, such as barking if neglected.

Training and grooming needs: They have an accepting attitude and are easily trained. Poodles don't shed a lot which means they are safe for kids with allergies. They require frequent grooming (approx. every 6 weeks is suggested)

Activity level: Poodles come in various sizes but on a standard, they are lively and high-spirited dogs. They need daily exercise of an hour or so.

Life expectancy: Poodle’s life expectancy is 12–15 yrs.

4. IRISH SETTER

This handsome breed of dogs is mostly found in the attractive shades of reds like mahogany and chestnut.

Personality: Setters are outgoing, sweet-natured bright dogs. Due to their gentle and patient personality, they are popularly known as child-friendly dogs. They get along with kids as well as other dogs.

Training and grooming needs: Irish setters are obedient and can be trained into well-behaved family dogs easily yet they need gentle hands for training. Their long and silky coat needs to be taken care of which means they require regular grooming.

Activity level: Irish setters are one of the most active breeds of dogs, their exercise needs are quite high (more than 2 hours per day) which means, get ready for long daily walks with your pet. They love spending time outdoors.

Life expectancy: Setters may live up to 12–15 years

5.COLLIES

Personality: Collies have a very graceful personality. they possess an affectionate nature. They are loyal, devoted, responsive, and playful They prove to be quite a good companion with kids.

Training and grooming needs: Collies pick commands pretty well which means they won’t give you a tough time while training them. Collies have double coats, their grooming must be done every 4-8 weeks (more frequent grooming is required during the shedding seasons - mainly spring and fall)

Activity level: Collies are athletic dogs, they are fast, strong, and energetic. No doubt they require a good amount of exercise daily.

Life expectancy: 12–14yrs

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