Best Dogs For Babies

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The best dogs for babies are the ones that provide comfort, security, and support to a child. But how do you know which dog is the right one for an infant?

Your choice may be influenced by your budget, activity, schedule, and living arrangements. You can consider a golden retriever, bulldog, poodle, labrador, dalmatian, corgi, etc. Ideally, you should focus on getting a puppy that can be trained over the years and spend more time with your child.

Parents with infants already have a lot on their minds and schedules. The last thing they need is to worry about whether or not the dog they bring into the family will be a wise choice for their young and curious little infant.

We've spent years training different breeds of dogs, whether they were our own or for clients who couldn't train their dogs. We've interacted with many different kinds of dogs, which has helped us write this list of the best dogs for babies. So, let's get started.

In this article

‍Best Dogs for Babies

Golden Retrievers

Golden Retriever
Golden Retriever

These gorgeous canines have a well-deserved reputation as the ideal family pet. They're patient and laid-back, and they'll make excellent cuddly friends for small children.

Beagles

Beagle
Beagle

Beagles, with their enormous brown imploring eyes, are not only adorable but also excellent family members.

Even if you're out for a walk, they're known for being laid-back. Instead of running after a squirrel at the park, they choose to take in the smells and sounds. They enjoy playing, have a sweet demeanor, are versatile, and love spending time with their pack.

Collies

Collie
Collie

There's a reason these dogs are frequently voted the smartest canine breed. They're a riot to be around, and they're highly intelligent. If you keep them in charge of monitoring, raising, and protecting your child, they will take it seriously and excel at it, just as they do with any other task you assign them. They'll be happy and even useful members of your family as long as you keep them entertained and active.

Bull Dogs

Bull Dog
Bull Dog

Though it has a serious expression on its face, this dog is as laid-back as any other breed. There isn't anything that bothers these puppies, so you won't have to worry about your child playing with them all day. Indeed, they thrive on attention and cuddling, so the more time they get to play, the better.

Newfoundland

Newfoundland
Newfoundland

These gentle giants are among the world's most well-behaved animals. They have a soft spot for kids and like spending time with their pals. They enjoy running about, exercising, playing, and then snuggling in for a good cuddle. Because these canines are so large, they may not be aware of their own size. Little pulls of their hair from toddlers who are still learning how to pet won't disturb them too much because they're bigger. Plus, they're great huggers if you have a towel around to wipe away all of their adoring drool.

Poodles

Poodle
Poodle

The poodle is one of the most distinctive-looking and intelligent dog breeds. They're easily trained and will quickly grasp the limits and expectations you set for them. They are generally laid-back, especially if they have been adequately stimulated and exercised, and they get along well with youngsters.

There are a variety of poodle hybrids, known as doodles, that have grown popular among family members because, like the poodle, they don't shed as much hair as other dogs (which is particularly useful if you have allergies).

Plus, they usually have all of the poodle's engaging demeanor and energetic features coupled with the benefits of the breed they're mixed with.

Labradors

Labrador
Labrador

Labrador retrievers, like golden retrievers, are particularly popular family dogs for a reason. These puppies will cling to children like peanut butter clings to jelly. They like playing as much as they enjoy cuddling, making them ideal companions for your high-energy children. They also enjoy eating, so be cautious when feeding them.

Pugs

Pug
Pug

These loud breathers are not only amusing to look at, but they also make excellent family members. They enjoy playing and running around like young children, but they also enjoy extended snuggle sessions. The ordinary pug is the most adorable and genuine friend who would be willing to spend hours of endless play with a small child. Just make sure you have your earplugs on hand when nap time eventually arrives.

Boxers

Boxer
Boxer

These adorable goofballs will provide endless hours of fun and enjoyment for both you and your small children. They enjoy being around people even more than other dogs, and they have a special affection for children. And, because of their larger size, they'll be able to tolerate (usually) all types of hand grasping, fur pulling, and playing in any setting. These dogs are content as long as they receive the attention they need.

Mastiffs

Don't be intimidated by its massive bones. This little love bug is truly a big buddy. This breed has a strong desire to bond with its owners and will easily guard them once they have done so. They'll have fun, plus, you can be assured that if they feel their pack is in danger, they'll keep the threat at bay.

Dalmatians

Dalmatian
Dalmatian

Thanks to certain classic Disney movies, there may be 101 reasons to love these canines. They're a breed of dog that's playful, fun-loving, and plain gorgeous. They get super excited and happy when they run around during the day and sleep peacefully, cuddled up at night, just like many other kid-friendly breeds. If you live on a farm, these dogs have a special fondness for horses, so you won't have to worry about them getting along with the rest of your farm family.

Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise

Don't be fooled by their cute faces; there's a lot going on in those fluffy little heads. The Bichon Frise enjoys being the center of attention and will make everybody who comes into contact with them fall in love with them. These dogs are super gentle and calm with kids and will gladly share the attention with a youngster bestie. They also learn and adjust to new settings rapidly, so you won't be able to put them off their charm game for long.

Australian Shepherds

Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherd

These lovely canines are naturally lively, and like the collie, enjoy having a job to do. They want and need to expend their pent-up energy through daily exercise, and running about with a little child can be just the thing.

They're fiercely devoted to their pack, and the prospect of bringing in new members may irritate them. This is useful if you want them to be protective of your kids, but it will take some time for them to acclimatize to any new pack member.

However, because they are so intelligent, it is quite easy to teach them as they quickly pick up on new talents and skills. These rambunctious little mischief-makers enjoy being stimulated and will enjoy interacting with their human companions on a daily basis.

Bull Terriers

Bull Terrier
Bull Terrier

Over the years, this species has been featured in a variety of marketing initiatives, ranging from beer to departmental shops. Because they're known for being sociable and trainable, their semi-famous long-nose faces appear all over the place.

They can be a little intense when playing, but for babies and small children who will be sharing space with them on a regular basis, they will be cuddly, loving, and protective.

Vizslas

Vizsla
Vizsla

If you have a backyard where these dogs can run around, they'll be the happiest dogs in the world. They'll blow off steam in the yard and come back inside to cuddle with their favorite friend - your baby. This kind and athletic breed will be entertaining babies with their seemingly limitless energy and cuddling up for afternoon naps.

Irish Setter

Irish Setter
Irish Setter

This sleek and lovely dog prefers to be among other people and does not enjoy being alone. So, they'll be overjoyed to have a reason for you (or a caretaker) and your child to stay at home and play all day. Plus, they're generally cheerful dogs, making it simple to keep them content.

Cavalier Kings

Cavalier King
Cavalier King

This breed, like infants, enjoys curling up in a small ball and spending the entire day with you. For years, these canines have been known as one of the gentlest and kindest dogs available. They are more difficult to teach than other breeds. However, they won't require much training in order to be nice and caring to their newborn human companions, as this will come easily to them.

Basset Hounds

Basset Hound

This hound dog is laid-back and enjoys hanging around and exploring. These big-eared fur kittens have a big heart and are known to be gentle and calm. They're content just hanging out about the house, so they're not going to add any additional maintenance to an already hectic schedule. These hearty and lively pups adore hanging out with their owners and playing, playing, and playing all day! They have a lot of energy and will want to put it to good use on a daily basis.

Boston Terriers

Boston Terrier
Boston Terrier

When they're not chasing a ball or squirrels, they'll cuddle up with their favorite people and gently play with them. These lovable pups thrive on having a job to do. They're gentle and protective when they are children around.

Airedale Terriers

Airedale Terrier
Airedale Terrier

These beautiful creatures want to make you happy and are easily trained, so you can easily teach them about their boundaries and what expectations you have at an early age, which will come in handy as they become older.

Bloodhounds

Bloodhound
Bloodhound

This breed, like other hound dogs, is peaceful and laid-back. They enjoy using their nose to discover the world surrounding them and would be perfectly content to spend the entire day with an infant. Because they're frequently trained and placed to operate in a variety of professional settings, they can readily be trained to work in ordinary households as well.

Bolognese

Bolognese
Bolognese

This all-white puppy is related to the popular bichon frise in many respects. They are bashful and want to be in the presence of their pack or people they are attached to the most.  But whoever they choose to be their special someone will receive nothing but loving, kind, patient adoration, and lots of cuddles.

Corgis

Corgi
Corgi

Corgis, the Queen's favorite breed, hold a special place in many people's hearts. They're playful and outgoing, and they enjoy spending time with their loved ones. Though they enjoy being in charge, they understand the need to respect the family hierarchy and will be happiest if they can just cuddle and be the center of attention – along with their human infant friends, of course.

Afghan Hounds

Afghan Hound
Afghan Hound

These unique and stunning creatures are as kind as they are stunning. They are entirely devoted and loyal to the people they love the most, even if they aren't the friendliest with strangers (they prefer their family over any stranger who enters their territory).

Because they have a little of a stubborn streak, they may not want to please you as much as other dogs. However, they are normally gentle and have an incredibly lovely personality that will make you forget about their stubborn peculiarities.

American Foxhounds

American Foxhound
American Foxhound

Any child who has seen the movie "The Fox and the Hound" may wish for an American foxhound. Like other hound dogs, it is happiest when given a mission to do (ideally one that involves its nose). It is also, like other hound dogs, placid, easygoing, and pleased to just sit around the house with its family members.

Chinese Crested

Chinese Crested
Chinese Crested

You'll be hard-pressed to find a dog with a more distinctive appearance than the Chinese crested. Their small bodies make them appropriate for a variety of living settings, and their fluffy, frequently hairless coats make them stand out visually. These sociable animals have strong bonds with their pack and are less interested in people outside of it. They are kind, sweet, cuddly, and delightful family companions if you are with them.

Why You Should Get a Dog Even If You Have Small Kids at Home

Even if they appreciate the idea of having a canine friend, some families prefer to wait until their children are older or disregard the idea of having a dog entirely. However, studies show that children who grow up with dogs experience several social and health benefits. There are also plenty of puppies that families can keep with the ideal disposition for an infant or toddler.

Dogs can teach children responsibility, compassion, and collaboration while also providing the best playmates imaginable. It's usually a good idea to explore the ideal dog breed for your children and lifestyle before you adopt any puppy. Some canines are better suited as playmates for rowdy older children, while others have gentle, patient personalities that are more suited for small children. Consider adopting an older dog if you have young children at home.

When you bring a new pet into the family, you should anticipate continuous, caring training. Learning how to engage with animals in a safe and courteous manner will also benefit your child. Remember to set aside time for grooming, feeding, walking, and playing as a family!

Many families with infants are hesitant to add a dog to their household. They want a dog for companionship, love, and security it brings, but they also want to make sure the new addition won't disrupt family harmony or pose a safety risk.

Babies, Dogs, and Safety

Before you go any further, remember that you should never leave a dog alone with an infant or child. Even the gentlest, most loving dogs in the world might inadvertently harm a small child, so always keep an eye on your children (both two-legged and four-legged) when they interact.

Even the cleanest dogs spend their days licking the floor, sleeping on the ground, gnawing on carcasses found in the yard, and generally playing around outside in the dirt. While there is some benefit to letting young children come into contact with pathogens, you don't want to go overboard. You don't want your child putting your dog's paw in her mouth, for example.

AKC advises that you should make the initial introductions brief, and as your dog proves his trustworthiness, gradually allow more personal contact. Keep a close eye on your dog's body language and stop immediately if he exhibits signs of violence or doesn't appear to be capable of treating the newborn with the utmost tenderness.

Remember that dogs express their distress by subtle body language movements, so familiarize yourself with canine stress signals to avoid misinterpretations. A dog's head turning away from you is an obvious indication that they are uncomfortable.

Allowing your dog and infant to connect doesn't have to be a stressful experience — just be clever, pay attention to your dog's anxiety body cues, and always provide a route for your dog to leave the situation if he becomes uncomfortable.