Bringing home a new dog is a big decision for the whole family; ensuring they’re compatible with your household is crucial.
A good way to be informed, before making this decision, is researching dog breeds. This can tell you about a dog’s activity level, their temperament around children, and how easy they are to train.
To help, our Pointer pet experts have put together a list of fantastic, family-friendly dog breeds that will feel paw-fectly at home with you.
Top Ten Dog Family-Friendly Dog Breeds
- Labrador Retriever
A firm favourite in the UK, the Labrador Retriever is known for its gentle temperament, loyalty, and intelligence. Labradors are easy to train, patient with children, and full of energy –perfect for active families.
- Golden Retriever
Similar to Labradors in many ways, Golden Retrievers are affectionate, calm, and fantastic with kids. Their friendly nature and high level of patience make them ideal for young children. They do require regular grooming and plenty of exercise, but their loving personalities more than make up for the upkeep.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small, affectionate breed perfect for families living in smaller homes. They’re gentle, sociable, and easily bond with children and adults alike. Their low exercise needs make them a great match for less active households or first-time dog owners.
- Cockapoo
A popular crossbreed in the UK, the Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel + Poodle) is friendly, intelligent, and usually hypoallergenic. Cockapoos are great with children and known for their playful nature. Their low-shedding coats make them ideal for families with allergy concerns, though they do need regular grooming.
- Border Terrier
If you’re after a smaller, robust dog with a big heart, the Border Terrier is a great choice. They’re loyal, affectionate, and energetic enough to keep up with busy children. Border Terriers adapt well to both city and rural living, and their wiry coat is relatively low maintenance.
- Beagle
The Beagle is curious, cheerful, and excellent with kids. Their compact size and gentle nature make them great family pets. Beagles do need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, so they’re best for families with a garden or access to open space. They’re known for forming strong bonds with children.
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Staffie)
The Staffie is one of the most affectionate breeds around. Known as the “nanny dog” in the UK, Staffies are incredibly loyal and loving with children. They are strong and energetic, so early training is key—but their gentle nature makes them a fantastic family companion.
- Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is a sweet-natured and playful breed that thrives in family settings. They’re affectionate and responsive, and they get along well with children and other pets. Their long, silky coats require regular grooming, but their joyful personalities make them worth the effort.
- Miniature Schnauzer
Smart, loyal, and alert, the Miniature Schnauzer is a great option for families looking for a smaller dog with a big personality. They’re good with children, relatively easy to train, and known for being protective yet gentle. They’re also a good choice for families concerned about shedding or allergies.
- Whippet
The Whippet is one of the most underrated family dogs in the UK. They’re calm indoors, affectionate, and gentle with children. Despite their speed, they don’t need excessive exercise and are happy with a few sprints and plenty of sofa time. Whippets are ideal for families living in flats or smaller homes.
Don’t Roll Over Just Yet – There’s More!
So, what can you do between selecting the right dog breed and bringing your new pup home? Sniff out your supplies!
We recommend checking out Dog’s Trust paw-some new dog checklist. It’s a handy guide that covers everything you’ll need before your four-legged friend sets a paw in your home. From toys to training pads, not forgetting some delicious treats, ensure your dog has everything they need to settle in comfortably.
Remember, dogs can be just as costly as any other family member. To budget wisely, pop your chosen breed into the RSPCA’s Pet Cost Calculator. It’ll give you a realistic idea of the ongoing expenses—so you can start putting some kibble into the savings bowl early!
Ready to take the leap? For more information about owning a dog, including how to introduce a new dog to your family and, how to involve children in training a dog, head over to our blogs page.