These dogs make great family pets for those with children – or for those planning to.
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes – the UK Kennel Club recognises 221 different pedigree dogs, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier.
Then there are all manner of crossbreeds, from so-called ‘designer dogs’ to lovable mongrels.
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There’s also always the option of adopting a dog from a dog shelter for a minimal fee – for example from the Dogs Trust.
And if you have young childen – or are planning a family – then there are certain breeds that should top your list.
These are breeds that tend to be calm, gentle, loving and patient – that are unlikley to snap and enjoy playing games and snuggling with their human siblings.
Here are 14 breeds that fit the bill perfectly.
1. Labrador Retriever
Not content with just being the most popular dog in the UK, the Labrador Retriever is also the most child-friendly – thanks to their friendly, loving and outgoing nature.
2. Bulldog
They may sometimes look a little grumpy due to their distinctive wrinkles, but the adaptable Bulldog’s calm and relaxed nature makes it a perfect choice for families with young children. | Canva/Getty Images
3. Beagle
A more compact size family hound, Beagles tend to get on very well with children and love to play. | Canva/Getty Images
4. Newfoundland
With its combination of loyalty, intelligence and sweet nature, the Newfoundland is a great family dog. They may be huge, but they are also gentle and protective of children. No wonder they are also known as a ‘nanny dog.
And if you have young childen – or are planning a family – then there are certain breeds that should top your list.
These are breeds that tend to be calm, gentle, loving and patient – that are unlikley to snap and enjoy playing games and snuggling with their human siblings.
Here are 14 breeds that fit the bill perfectly.
5. Irish Setter
The noble-looking Irish Setter is an outgoing and sweet-natured breed that loves big long walks and plenty of cuddles from the younger members of the family.
6. French Bulldog
Currently the second most popular dog in the UK, the French Bulldog, is also one of the best for families. They are playful, smart, cuddly, adaptable, and don’t need a huge amount of exercise. | Canva/Getty Images
7. Golden Retriever
What is true of the Labrador is usually also true of its close cousin the gregarious Golden Retriever. Another gundog famed for its placid nature, intelligence and good humour, the Golden Retriever is a perfect family pooch. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Bichon Frise
This cheerful, hypoallergenic breed loves kids and all the attention they inevitably get from the wee ones. Bichons are small, cuddly, and enjoy playing games for hours. Their coat requires grooming, but their affectionate personality makes them ideal for families.
And if you have young childen – or are planning a family – then there are certain breeds that should top your list.
These are breeds that tend to be calm, gentle, loving and patient – that are unlikley to snap and enjoy playing games and snuggling with their human siblings.
Here are 14 breeds that fit the bill perfectly.
9. Brussels Griffon
Ideal for families with less room at home, the Brussels Griffon is a small, child-friendly breed with a great sense of humour and happy to live in a flat.
10. Poodle
Intelligent, hypoallergenic, and versatile, Poodles adapt well to family life. They’re gentle with children, easy to train, and available in three different sizes – standard, miniature and toy – to match the size of your home and how active your lifestyle is.
