Best Dog Breeds for Kids

Dogs can be great for kids: Not only are they are a source of unconditional love, but they can help teach responsibility and cooperation.

Alaskan Malamute

A well-behaved Mal is a joy to be with, playful, gentle, friendly, and great with kids.

An immensely strong, heavy-duty worker of spitz type, the Alaskan Malamute is an affectionate, loyal, and playful but dignified dog recognizable by his well-furred plumed tail carried over the back, erect ears, and substantial bone.

Australian Terrier

plucky, spirited, and smart; how did they fit so much dog into such a bitty package?

Upbeat and lively, the self-assured Aussie approaches life with plenty of the old-time terrier curiosity and grit.

Australian Terriers are small but sturdy, self-confident terriers known for a longish torso, distinctive coat furnishings around the neck and forequarters, and a topknot of soft, silky hair that contrasts in texture with an otherwise harsh coat.

Basset Fauve de Bretagne

Smart, courageous and determined, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a serious hunter, easily adaptable to different types of game and terrain. It is equally an excellent companion dog, being cheerful, intelligent and eager to please.

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne, also known as the Fawn Colored Brittany Basset, is a small, stocky, rough-coated hardy dog that is energetic and fast for its size. The Fauve gets along well with children and other pets.

Training and socialization is a must or Fauves can get into mischief.

Not nuisance barkers, you will, however, know if a rabbit runs through the yard, as they then give the hound 'voice' and chase.

This breed is as happy romping in the field as he is curled up next to the family on the sofa.

Beagle

Beagles are loving and lovable, happy, and companionable'¿all qualities that make them excellent family dogs.

Not only is the Beagle an excellent hunting dog and loyal companion, it is also happy-go-lucky, funny, and thanks to its pleading expression, cute.

No wonder that for years the Beagle has been the most popular hound dog among American pet owners. These are curious, clever, and energetic hounds who require plenty of playtime.

Beauceron

The Beauceron is imposing and powerful, but also remarkably smart, spirited, and a versatile herder.

Beaucerons are muscular, rugged, and large, standing as high as 27.5 inches at the shoulder, and yet graceful and in all ways balanced. Their dark black coats feature handsome squirrel-red accents, including the red feet that give the breed its French nickname Bas-Rouge ('red stockings').

They're not for novice owners, who might end up being owned by their dominant dog instead of the other way around.

That said, well-trained and socialized Beaucerons are levelheaded watchdogs and guardians, especially good with the young, the small, and the defenseless.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Berners are imposing but not threatening, and they maintain an aloof dignity with strangers.

Big, powerful, and built for hard work, the Bernese Mountain Dog is also strikingly beautiful and blessed with a sweet, affectionate nature.

Berners are generally placid but are always up for a romp with the owner, whom they live to please.

Berners get along with the entire family and are particularly gentle with children, but they will often become more attached to one lucky human.

Border Terrier

Borders love exploring outdoors and make fine childhood playmates.

These plucky, happy, and affectionate dogs are popular pets in town and country.

Borders are described as 'hard as nails when working, but at home they're good-tempered, affectionate, and trainable.

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