Best dog breeds for families

Hartstein says the Bichon Frise is particularly energetic, so these petite, white cuties make a great fit for active families with time to exercise them. The Bichon Frise might need a little extra time to run around, but once they’re home, they tend to be low-key. Hartstein says they don’t bark much, they don’t shed, and they love to cuddle. The pit bull gets a bad rap, but they can be great for families. Hartstein says they are wonderfully loyal and intelligent pets that need a lot of training, socialization, and exercise. Unlike other breeds, they’re low maintenance in terms of grooming, and they are very affectionate with their owners. Known as a classic family dog, Goldens can be hit or miss. As Retrievers, they need constant training, socialization, and exercise to meet their needs. As with most social gregarious dogs on this list, they wouldn’t do well being left alone for many hours at a time, but you probably don’t have to worry about them being too loud. If you’re willing to put in the effort, these pups make great family dogs. Like other retrievers, Labs are friendly, intelligent, and very popular dogs for good reason. They are energetic and want to learn, so you need to train them often, or they can develop behavior problems. They also need lots of enrichment and exercise. The smallest Schnauzer brother, this guy is spirited, alert, and friendly. Schnauzers are also known for being quite smart, so they love to be trained by their families. Some of them don’t do ...

If anyone knows the benefit of growing up with dogs, it's Ree Drummond and her kids. The Dogs of all breeds are wonderful, but there are certain breeds that are less reactive around kids or other pets. This makes them best suited for families. They come in all sizes: choose from Click through the gallery to see the best dog breeds for families and kids, many recommended as great family pets by the If you're looking for a family dog of smaller size, opt for the beagle. This breed's incredible sense of smell makes it a great working dog, and it's worth giving your dog a task. Otherwise, they are prone to roaming so a fenced yard where the kids and dog can play together is important. The beagle is also one of the most vocal dog breeds, and kids will be entertained by their three different sounds. Forget the poodle's reputation as a prissy dog. They're super smart, athletic, and love to play! If you're looking for a smaller dog, this popular breed also comes in miniature and toy sizes. And their curly coats are hypoallergenic, so they make a great pet in a household with kids who have allergy sensitivities.

James F. Dean / Getty Images Boxers are known to be playful and do not mind befriending kids as playmates. A lively dog, it can go toe-to-toe with children who also seem to have endless energy and a love of the outdoors. It has a goofy, childlike personality that children can appreciate. It can be sometimes clumsy and bump or knock over a kid or two, so watch it closely around toddlers. The Spruce / Kevin Norris Labs are loyal family dogs. Even-tempered, they are one of the last dogs to get aggressive. They are outgoing, kind, gentle, and very smart dogs. They get along great with kids and other animals in the house. They tolerate a child hugging, patting, or prodding it. Their relaxed demeanor is a big plus for families with young children. They appreciate a lot of space, preferably with a backyard, since they need plenty of daily exercise. The Spruce / Kevin Norris A golden retriever is much like a longer-haired, furrier Labrador retriever. Their temperament is very similar: gentle, laid-back, tolerant, and non-aggressive. This breed can get hyperactive and a little unmanageable if it does not have a constructive way to release its bountiful energy. A playful and smart breed, it can make a great companion for school-aged children, enjoying a game of fetch and other yard games. Carol Howell / Getty Images Poodles are extremely smart and have a great temperament. A poodle's high energy often matches a child's energy. Poodles are loving, cuddly, gentle, and patient. Plus, y...

Some dogs have a natural instinct to protect their home and family and they make excellent Guard Dogs. Guardian breeds tend to be loyal, fearless, strong and watchful. If you want a breed that will not only alert you when a visitor arrives, but will also intuitively know when to protect you from a dangerous situation than Guardian breeds are for you. These breeds need