Neha, Author at Central Park Puppies

Best Family-Friendly Dog Breeds for Kids

July 1, 2025

Posted on July 1, 2025 | by Neha | Leave a Comment

Finding a dog that’s great with kids is key to creating a happy, safe home. The best family-friendly dog breeds for kids are gentle, patient, and playful, making them perfect for families with young children. This guide covers 20 breeds, their traits, and tips to ensure a joyful bond between your kids and their new furry friend.

Why Choose a Family-Friendly Dog Breed?

Family-friendly dogs are patient, tolerant, and love playtime, making them ideal for homes with children. They adapt to busy households, are often easy to train, and thrive on family activities. These breeds also teach kids responsibility and empathy through pet care.

Factors to Consider for Families with Kids

Look for breeds with gentle temperaments, moderate energy levels, and good trainability. Consider size, grooming needs, and compatibility with other pets or small spaces. Safety is key, so choose dogs known for their calm, non-aggressive nature.

Top 10 Family-Friendly Dog Breeds for Kids

Labrador Retriever

Characteristics: Medium-to-large, athletic build.
Temperament: Friendly, gentle, and outgoing.
Grooming Needs: Low; weekly brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 60 minutes of daily activity.
Why It’s Great: Labs are patient and love kids’ energy. Buy a Labrador Retriever puppy.

Golden Retriever

Characteristics: Long, golden coat; sturdy build.
Temperament: Intelligent, gentle, and playful.
Grooming Needs: Moderate; regular brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 60 minutes of exercise.
Why It’s Great: Goldens are loyal and great with kids. Adopt a Golden Retriever puppy.

Beagle

Characteristics: Compact, smooth coat.
Temperament: Friendly, curious, and social.
Grooming Needs: Low; weekly brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 45–60 minutes of activity.
Why It’s Great: Beagles are playful and gentle with kids. Buy a Beagle puppy.

Pug

Characteristics: Wrinkled face, small size.
Temperament: Affectionate, playful, and calm.
Grooming Needs: Low; weekly brushing and wrinkle cleaning.
Exercise Requirements: 20–30 minutes of play.
Why It’s Great: Pugs are gentle and love snuggling with kids. Adopt a Pug puppy.

Bichon Frise

Characteristics: Fluffy white coat, small size.
Temperament: Cheerful, gentle, and social.
Grooming Needs: High; regular brushing and grooming.
Exercise Requirements: 30 minutes of activity.
Why It’s Great: Bichons are patient and kid-friendly. Buy a Bichon Frise puppy.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Characteristics: Silky coat, small frame.
Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, and sociable.
Grooming Needs: Moderate; regular brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 30–45 minutes of walks or play.
Why It’s Great: Cavaliers are calm and love kids. Adopt a Cavalier puppy.

Shih Tzu

Characteristics: Long or short coat, small size.
Temperament: Friendly, calm, and affectionate.
Grooming Needs: High; daily brushing for long coats.
Exercise Requirements: 20–30 minutes of light activity.
Why It’s Great: Shih Tzus are gentle and great for young kids. Buy a Shih Tzu puppy.

Boxer

Characteristics: Muscular, short coat.
Temperament: Playful, loyal, and protective.
Grooming Needs: Low; weekly brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 60 minutes of exercise.
Why It’s Great: Boxers are energetic and patient with kids. Adopt a Boxer puppy.

English Bulldog

Characteristics: Wrinkled face, stocky build.
Temperament: Calm, loyal, and gentle.
Grooming Needs: Moderate; clean wrinkles regularly.
Exercise Requirements: 20–30 minutes of walks.
Why It’s Great: Bulldogs are low-energy and kid-friendly. Buy an English Bulldog puppy.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Characteristics: Soft, wavy coat; medium size.
Temperament: Friendly, energetic, and gentle.
Grooming Needs: High; regular brushing and trimming.
Exercise Requirements: 45–60 minutes of activity.
Why It’s Great: Wheatens are playful and safe for kids. Adopt a Wheaten Terrier puppy.

11–20 Family-Friendly Dog Breeds for Kids

Havanese

Characteristics: Silky coat, small size.
Temperament: Sociable, gentle, and playful.
Grooming Needs: Moderate; regular brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 30 minutes of activity.
Why It’s Great: Havanese are patient and love kids. Buy a Havanese puppy.

Newfoundland

Characteristics: Thick fur, large size.
Temperament: Gentle, patient, and protective.
Grooming Needs: High; regular brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 45–60 minutes of exercise.
Why It’s Great: Newfoundlands are gentle giants for families. Adopt a Newfoundland puppy.

Collie

Characteristics: Long or short coat, elegant build.
Temperament: Intelligent, loyal, and gentle.
Grooming Needs: Moderate; regular brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 60 minutes of activity.
Why It’s Great: Collies are patient and great with kids. Buy a Collie puppy.

Boston Terrier

Characteristics: Sleek coat, compact build.
Temperament: Friendly, playful, and gentle.
Grooming Needs: Low; occasional brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 30 minutes of walks or play.
Why It’s Great: Boston Terriers are calm and kid-friendly. Adopt a Boston Terrier puppy.

Irish Setter

Characteristics: Red coat, athletic build.
Temperament: Energetic, friendly, and affectionate.
Grooming Needs: Moderate; regular brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 60 minutes of exercise.
Why It’s Great: Irish Setters are playful and safe for kids. Buy an Irish Setter puppy.

French Bulldog

Characteristics: Short coat, compact size.
Temperament: Calm, affectionate, and social.
Grooming Needs: Low; weekly brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 20–30 minutes of activity.
Why It’s Great: French Bulldogs are gentle with kids. Adopt a French Bulldog puppy.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Characteristics: Thick coat, large size.
Temperament: Gentle, loyal, and patient.
Grooming Needs: High; regular brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 45–60 minutes of exercise.
Why It’s Great: Berners are calm and great with kids. Buy a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy.

Miniature Schnauzer

Characteristics: Wiry coat, small-to-medium size.
Temperament: Alert, friendly, and trainable.
Grooming Needs: Moderate; regular trimming.
Exercise Requirements: 30–45 minutes of activity.
Why It’s Great: Schnauzers are playful and safe for kids. Adopt a Miniature Schnauzer puppy.

Vizsla

Characteristics: Sleek coat, athletic build.
Temperament: Affectionate, energetic, and gentle.
Grooming Needs: Low; minimal brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 60 minutes of exercise.
Why It’s Great: Vizslas are loyal and great with active kids. Buy a Vizsla puppy.

Cocker Spaniel

Characteristics: Silky coat, expressive eyes.
Temperament: Affectionate, playful, and gentle.
Grooming Needs: Moderate; regular grooming.
Exercise Requirements: 45 minutes of activity.
Why It’s Great: Cocker Spaniels are patient and kid-friendly. Adopt a Cocker Spaniel puppy.

Tips for Families with Kids and Dogs

Teaching Kids to Interact Safely: Show kids how to pet gently, avoid pulling tails, and respect the dog’s space. Supervise interactions with young children to ensure safety. Visit ASPCA.org for kid-pet safety tips.
Training for a Happy Home: Use positive reinforcement to teach commands like “sit” or “stay.” Involve kids in training to build responsibility and strengthen the dog-kid bond. Start training early for best results.
Managing Energy Levels: Match your dog’s energy to your kids’ activity level. High-energy breeds like Boxers suit active families, while Pugs are great for calmer homes. Daily playtime keeps everyone happy.
Essential Supplies: Get a sturdy leash, a crate, food and water bowls, and kid-safe toys. A comfy dog bed and grooming tools are also must-haves for a family-friendly home.

FAQ: Common Questions About Family-Friendly Dog Breeds

What are the best family-friendly dog breeds for kids?
The best family-friendly dog breeds for kids include Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Pugs for their gentle nature. Buy a Labrador Retriever puppy for a great family pet.
Are family-friendly dogs safe for young children?
Yes, breeds like Shih Tzus and Bichon Frise are gentle and safe with proper supervision. Always teach kids to interact respectfully.
Which family-friendly dog is easiest to train?
Golden Retrievers and Miniature Schnauzers are highly trainable and great for families. Adopt a Golden Retriever puppy for a smart pet.
What family-friendly dogs are good for apartments?
Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus are small and apartment-friendly. Buy a Pug puppy for a compact companion.
Which family-friendly dog needs the least grooming?
Pugs and Boston Terriers require minimal grooming, just weekly brushing. Adopt a Boston Terrier puppy for low maintenance.
How much exercise do family-friendly dogs need?
Most family-friendly breeds need 20–60 minutes of daily exercise. Labs and Boxers need more, while Pugs require less.
What is the most gentle family-friendly dog?
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Shih Tzus are among the most gentle breeds for kids. Buy a Cavalier puppy for a calm pet.
How do you choose a family-friendly dog?
Consider temperament, size, and energy level. Choose a gentle, trainable breed like a Beagle to suit your family’s lifestyle.
Are family-friendly dogs good with other pets?
Breeds like Havanese and Golden Retrievers are social and get along with other pets. Adopt a Havanese puppy for a pet-friendly dog.
Can family-friendly dogs be left alone with kids?
Always supervise dogs with young children, but breeds like English Bulldogs are calm and safe. Buy an English Bulldog puppy for a gentle companion.

Conclusion

The best family-friendly dog breeds for kids, like Labrador Retrievers, Pugs, and Shih Tzus, bring joy and love to any household. With the right breed, your kids will gain a loyal playmate and learn valuable life lessons. Ready to welcome a family dog? Check out our puppies for sale today!

AUTHOR

Ash Perera

For Ash, it has always been about helping people. After earning her masters degree, she worked as a special education teacher in NYC public schools for five years prior to diving in to Central Park Puppies full-time. For more than 8 years now, Ash has been helping families find the perfect puppy for their homes. She serves as a co-founder and chief marketing officer of the online platform Central Park Puppies, a company committed to ethical breeding and a genuine love for all things canine. When she's not busy helping families connect with their dream pups, she is often embarking on adventures with her two daughters, husband, her beloved chihuahua and spunky schnauzer.

Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds for Allergy Sufferers

July 1, 2025

Posted on July 1, 2025 | by Neha | Leave a Comment

Living with allergies shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the love of a dog. The best hypoallergenic dog breeds for allergy sufferers are low-shedding, produce less dander, and make wonderful companions for sensitive owners. This guide explores 20 hypoallergenic breeds, their traits, and tips to help you find the perfect pet for your allergy-friendly home.

Why Choose a Hypoallergenic Dog Breed?

Hypoallergenic dogs shed less fur and dander, reducing allergens that trigger sneezing or itching. While no dog is 100% allergen-free, these breeds are easier on allergy sufferers and often suit apartments or small spaces. They’re also great for families or singles seeking low-maintenance, loving pets.

Factors to Consider for Allergy Sufferers

When choosing a hypoallergenic breed, consider grooming needs, temperament, and exercise requirements. Look for dogs that are friendly, trainable, and compatible with your lifestyle, whether you’re in a busy city like New York or a quiet suburb. Budget for regular grooming to keep dander at bay.

Top 10 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds for Allergy Sufferers

Poodle (Toy, Miniature, Standard)

Characteristics: Curly, dense coat; elegant build.
Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, and highly trainable.
Grooming Needs: High; regular clipping every 6–8 weeks.
Exercise Requirements: 30–60 minutes of daily activity.
Why It’s Great: Poodles are low-shedding and come in sizes for any home. Buy a Poodle puppy.

Maltese

Characteristics: Silky white coat, small frame.
Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and playful.
Grooming Needs: High; daily brushing to prevent matting.
Exercise Requirements: 20–30 minutes of walks or play.
Why It’s Great: Maltese are low-shedding and perfect for allergy sufferers. Adopt a Maltese puppy.

Bichon Frise

Characteristics: Fluffy white coat, compact size.
Temperament: Cheerful, social, and great with families.
Grooming Needs: High; regular brushing and grooming.
Exercise Requirements: 30 minutes of daily play.
Why It’s Great: Bichons are low-shedding and love human interaction. Buy a Bichon Frise puppy.

Shih Tzu

Characteristics: Long or short coat, sturdy build.
Temperament: Calm, friendly, and affectionate.
Grooming Needs: High; daily brushing for long coats.
Exercise Requirements: 20–30 minutes of light activity.
Why It’s Great: Shih Tzus are low-shedding and apartment-friendly. Adopt a Shih Tzu puppy.

Havanese

Characteristics: Silky coat, small but sturdy.
Temperament: Sociable, gentle, and easy to train.
Grooming Needs: Moderate; regular brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 30 minutes of walks or play.
Why It’s Great: Havanese are low-shedding and great for small spaces. Buy a Havanese puppy.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Characteristics: Soft, wavy coat; medium size.
Temperament: Friendly, energetic, and loyal.
Grooming Needs: High; regular brushing and trimming.
Exercise Requirements: 45–60 minutes of activity.
Why It’s Great: Wheatens are low-shedding and full of personality. Adopt a Wheaten Terrier puppy.

Miniature Schnauzer

Characteristics: Wiry coat, distinctive beard.
Temperament: Alert, intelligent, and trainable.
Grooming Needs: Moderate; regular trimming.
Exercise Requirements: 30–45 minutes of exercise.
Why It’s Great: Schnauzers are low-shedding and adaptable. Buy a Miniature Schnauzer puppy.

Portuguese Water Dog

Characteristics: Curly or wavy coat, athletic build.
Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, and friendly.
Grooming Needs: Moderate; regular grooming.
Exercise Requirements: 60 minutes of daily activity.
Why It’s Great: Their low-shedding coat suits active allergy sufferers. Adopt a Portuguese Water Dog puppy.

West Highland White Terrier

Characteristics: White coat, sturdy frame.
Temperament: Confident, playful, and friendly.
Grooming Needs: Moderate; regular brushing and trimming.
Exercise Requirements: 30–45 minutes of exercise.
Why It’s Great: Westies are low-shedding and great for families. Buy a Westie puppy.

Labradoodle

Characteristics: Curly or wavy coat, medium size.
Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, and social.
Grooming Needs: High; regular clipping.
Exercise Requirements: 45–60 minutes of activity.
Why It’s Great: Labradoodles are low-shedding and versatile. Adopt a Labradoodle puppy.

11–20 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds for Allergy Sufferers

Yorkshire Terrier

Characteristics: Silky coat, small size.
Temperament: Confident, affectionate, and intelligent.
Grooming Needs: High; daily brushing or trims.
Exercise Requirements: 20–30 minutes of activity.
Why It’s Great: Yorkies are low-shedding and easy to manage. Buy a Yorkshire Terrier puppy.

Greyhound

Characteristics: Sleek coat, delicate frame.
Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and quiet.
Grooming Needs: Low; minimal brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 30 minutes of exercise.
Why It’s Great: Their short coat minimizes dander. Adopt an Italian Greyhound puppy.

Coton de Tulear

Characteristics: Fluffy, cotton-like coat.
Temperament: Cheerful, social, and gentle.
Grooming Needs: High; daily brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 30 minutes of play or walks.
Why It’s Great: Cotons are low-shedding and great companions. Buy a Coton de Tulear puppy.

Lhasa Apso

Characteristics: Long or short coat, sturdy build.
Temperament: Independent, loyal, and calm.
Grooming Needs: High; daily brushing for long coats.
Exercise Requirements: 20–30 minutes of activity.
Why It’s Great: Lhasa Apsos are low-shedding and low-energy. Adopt a Lhasa Apso puppy.

Brussels Griffon

Characteristics: Expressive face, small size.
Temperament: Loyal, charming, and social.
Grooming Needs: Moderate; regular brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 20–30 minutes of play.
Why It’s Great: Griffons are low-shedding and affectionate. Buy a Brussels Griffon puppy.

Chinese Crested (Hairless)

Characteristics: Hairless body, tufts on head and feet.
Temperament: Playful, affectionate, and alert.
Grooming Needs: Low; skin care instead of brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 20–30 minutes of activity.
Why It’s Great: Hairless Cresteds produce minimal dander. Adopt a Chinese Crested puppy.

Basenji

Characteristics: Short, sleek coat; elegant build.
Temperament: Intelligent, independent, and quiet.
Grooming Needs: Low; minimal brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 45 minutes of exercise.
Why It’s Great: Basenjis are low-shedding and barkless. Buy a Basenji puppy.

Affenpinscher

Characteristics: Wiry coat, monkey-like face.
Temperament: Bold, playful, and loyal.
Grooming Needs: Moderate; regular brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 30 minutes of activity.
Why It’s Great: Affenpinschers are low-shedding and charming. Adopt an Affenpinscher puppy.

Xoloitzcuintli (Hairless)

Characteristics: Hairless or short-coated, sleek build.
Temperament: Calm, loyal, and protective.
Grooming Needs: Low; skin care for hairless variety.
Exercise Requirements: 30–45 minutes of exercise.
Why It’s Great: Xolos produce minimal allergens. Buy a Xoloitzcuintli puppy.

Cairn Terrier

Characteristics: Wiry coat, small but sturdy.
Temperament: Energetic, friendly, and curious.
Grooming Needs: Moderate; regular brushing.
Exercise Requirements: 30–45 minutes of activity.
Why It’s Great: Cairns are low-shedding and adaptable. Adopt a Cairn Terrier puppy.

Tips for Allergy Sufferers with Dogs

Grooming to Reduce Allergens
Regular grooming keeps dander and loose fur under control. Brush your dog weekly and bathe them monthly with hypoallergenic shampoo. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks helps for high-maintenance breeds like Poodles.
Home Environment Tips
Use air purifiers and vacuum with HEPA filters to reduce allergens. Wash your dog’s bedding weekly and keep their crate or bed clean. These steps make living with a dog easier for allergy sufferers.
Training for a Stress-Free Home
Use positive reinforcement to teach commands and reduce behaviors like excessive jumping, which can stir up dander. Socialize your dog early to ensure they’re calm around guests. Visit AKC.org for training tips.
Essential Supplies
Invest in a grooming brush, hypoallergenic shampoo, a crate, and a HEPA-filter vacuum. Interactive toys and a comfy bed keep your dog happy and your home allergen-free.

FAQ: Common Questions About Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

What are the best hypoallergenic dog breeds for allergy sufferers?
The best hypoallergenic dog breeds for allergy sufferers include Poodles, Maltese, and Bichon Frise due to their low-shedding coats. Buy a Poodle puppy for a great start.
Are hypoallergenic dogs completely allergen-free?
No dog is 100% allergen-free, but breeds like Shih Tzus and Havanese produce less dander. Regular grooming helps minimize allergens.
Which hypoallergenic dog is easiest to train?
Poodles and Miniature Schnauzers are highly intelligent and easy to train. Adopt a Miniature Schnauzer puppy for a trainable companion.
What hypoallergenic dogs are good for apartments?
Maltese, Havanese, and Italian Greyhounds are low-shedding and apartment-friendly. Buy a Havanese puppy for a small-space pet.
Which hypoallergenic dog needs the least grooming?
Hairless breeds like Chinese Crested and Xoloitzcuintli require minimal grooming, just skin care. Adopt a Chinese Crested puppy.
Are hypoallergenic dogs good with kids?
Bichon Frise and Havanese are gentle and great with kids. Buy a Bichon Frise puppy for a family-friendly dog.
How much exercise do hypoallergenic dogs need?
Most hypoallergenic breeds need 20–60 minutes of daily exercise. Breeds like Maltese require less, while Wheatens need more.
What is the most low-maintenance hypoallergenic dog?
Italian Greyhounds and Basenjis are low-maintenance due to minimal grooming needs. Adopt a Basenji puppy for an easygoing pet.
How do you choose a hypoallergenic dog?
Consider grooming needs, exercise requirements, and temperament. Choose a low-shedding breed like a Maltese to match your lifestyle.
Can hypoallergenic dogs live with other pets?
Yes, breeds like Havanese and Bichon Frise are social and get along with other pets. Buy a Havanese puppy for a pet-friendly companion.

Conclusion

The best hypoallergenic dog breeds for allergy sufferers, like Poodles, Maltese, and Shih Tzus, make pet ownership possible without the sneezes. With proper grooming and care, these breeds fit seamlessly into any home. Ready to find your allergy-friendly companion? Explore our puppies for sale today!

AUTHOR