One of the greatest joys of childhood is growing up with a dog, so if you’re looking to add a canine companion to your family you’re probably really excited about the process of choosing which breeds best suit you. Be warned that some dog breeds do not do well with children, especially very young ones. But don’t worry, because they are so many dogs that make excellent companions for young kids. If you’re on the search for a gentle dog that’s tolerant of loud noises, messy rooms and odd schedules, these breeds are for you. But be warned, no dog is suitable for a child that hasn’t been taught how to interact with animals properly and all dog and child interactions should be supervised.
#1 – Beagle
The Beagle is a small to medium sized scent hound originally bred for hunting and is still a prized rabbiting dog today. They are very gentle and even-tempered and are noted for making very poor guard dogs because they’re open to meeting anybody. They make excellent companions for children.
#2 – Pug
The Pug a goofy, sociable personality that makes him a wonderful family companion for adults and children alike. Although strong-willed and exuberant, they are typically very lazy dogs and require relatively minimal exercise.
#3 – Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This small toy spaniel is gentle, playful and very affectionate towards their family and strangers alike. They are small but hardy, adapting easily to all kinda of environments and situations. They make excellent family companions and are suitable for those with small children.
#4 – Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Although this active and muscular bully breed may look intimidating to some, Staffordshire Bull Terriers are actually very social and loving dogs. Staffies are not well-suited for quiet, indoor families as the breed does best with plenty of exercise and fun. That said, they make wonderful companions for children and are extremely affectionate.
#5 – Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier, nicknamed the American Gentleman, is a true joy to have around for those that love a silly, sociable breed. They are were originally bred to be companion dogs and still excel at this job today. They are well-suited for families with children.
#6 – Border Terrier
Border Terriers are small terrier dogs that were originally bred for vermin and fox hunting. Today, they excel at a variety of dog sports and make wonderful active companions. Although they may chase cats and other small pet, Border Terriers are very even-tempered and make great companions for children.
#7 – Keeshond
The Keeshond is a medium sized Spitz breed that is very intelligent and eager to please. They are very affectionate and attached to their families and make excellent companions for children. Keeshonden have done well in obedience, agility and even guide dog work.
#8 – Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel, both the American and English varieties, are medium sized bird hunting dogs that make excellent family companions. They are intelligent dogs that are very affectionate and become closely attached to their families. They are great dogs for homes with children.
#9 – Havanese
The Havanese is a small but hardy dog that makes an ideal family companion. They are very social dogs that become attached to their families and do not do well when left alone for extended periods. They may be a toy breed, but they are even-tempered and well suited for families with children.
#10 – Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
This Canadian retriever is a medium sized dog originally used for hunting waterfowl. They are active and intelligent dogs that make excellent companions for families with children, assuming they will get enough exercise. They do well in a variety of dog sports and are very eager to please.
#11 – Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk Terrier is a small, adorable terrier and is considered to be one of the softest tempered in the group. They are very social dogs that make excellent family companions and do well with small children.
#12 – Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium sized Irish dog with a single-layered coat that rarely sheds, making them suitable for those with allergies. They are also very playful and friendly, making them excellent companion dogs for families with children.
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via Whisker Therapy