Good family dogs come in all colors and sizes, but they do have a few things in common that make them chosen as family companions time and time again. Reliable temperaments, friendly personalities, and trainability are but a few key traits. Family dogs tend to fall right in the middle when it comes to energy levels (but not always), making them equal parts playmate and couch potato. These breeds tend to be good with young kids, possessing a lot of patience for the inevitable pestering and playfulness that kids will bring. Beyond being tolerant, they’ll probably choose your child to be their best friend, and you can take comfort in knowing they’re in good hands (or paws). Even with family-friendly breeds, it's important to remember that every dog is an individual with a unique personality and disposition, so taking some time to get to know your dog is key. Select from the popular breeds above to learn more, or use our Breed Explorer to find any family-friendly dog you're looking for.

Learn More About Family-Friendly Dog Breeds