90+ Best Dog Breeds for Kids, Guarding & More (With Info & Pictures)
With so many dog breeds in the world, how do you choose just one? We've gathered the best dog breeds for every kind of dog lover, including the best dog breeds with kids, the best guard dogs, and more! Scroll down to find your new favorite breed.
Best Dog Breeds With Kids
Dogs can be great companions for your kids - as long as you choose the right breed. Here are the 26 best dog breeds to have with kids:
1. Redbone Coonhound
As long as you properly socialize them, Redbone Coonhounds are excellent with children. They're playful, lively, good-tempered, and affectionate family dogs.
2. Norwegian Elkhound
Norwegian Elkhounds are playful and energetic, making them great companions for active, mischief-loving kids. They can knock over smaller children, so you'll want to keep an eye on toddlers.
3. Canaan Dog
The Canaan Dog is a smart, devoted dog from Israel. With enough socialization, this breed does very well with families.
4. Field Spaniel
Loyal, sweet, and intelligent, the Field Spaniel is an excellent family pet. You can expect affectionate companionship, but make sure to supervise this breed with small children.
5. Smooth Fox Terrier
Smooth Fox Terriers are upbeat, fearless dogs with a playful side. Families with active, outdoorsy lifestyles will love this small breed!
6. Pocket Beagle
Pocket Beagles are small British hunting dogs that can be great companions for older children. This little breed is playful, affectionate, and just a little bit mischievous.
7. King Shepherd
The King Shepherd is a smart, confident mix of the Shiloh Shepherd and the German Shepherd Dog. This is an excellent family dog with a gentle, steady nature.
8. Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound is an affectionate large dog best suited to older children. This gentle breed isn't especially playful but can be a great family companion.
9. Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog
The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog is a lively, loyal breed well suited to small families. They may tend to herd small children but can do very well with older kids.
10. Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher is a fearless, lively little dog from Germany. As long as you teach your children how to approach and play with dogs, a well-socialized Min Pin should do well.
11. Australian Silky Terrier
Australian Silky Terriers are great pets for older kids, though they have less patience for toddlers. Don't forget to teach children how to respect your terrier!
12. Bearded Collie
Active, smart, and alert, Bearded Collies are affectionate family pets. You'll want to supervise them with small children but they're fun companions for older kids.
13. American Eskimo
Fluffy white American Eskimos are smart, protective dogs that do well in active families. If you're looking for a good-tempered guard dog, this breed could be for you!
14. American Mastiff
American Mastiffs won't work for every family - these powerful dogs need an experienced hand - but with the right training, you'll have a loving, calm companion for older kids.
15. Australian Bulldog
Australian Bulldogs are confident, loyal dogs that need plenty of socialization. With consistent training, they do very well with older kids.
16. American Water Spaniel
American Water Spaniels are hardy gundogs with friendly, merry personalities, making them perfect for any family with spare time.
17. Australian Cattle Dog
Curious, independent, and alert Australian Cattle Dogs go very well with active families. They may be standoffish with strangers, but these dogs love the children and adults in their families!
18. Basset Fauve de Bretagne
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is an adaptable, affectionate hunting dog perfect for active families.
19. Leonberger
Leonbergers are often called "gentle lions," and that nickname sums up their suitability for families. These giant dogs are surprisingly gentle, patient, and affectionate with children.
20. Finnish Lapphund
The Finnish Lapphund is a tough, playful dog that needs plenty of space to run around. Active families will love this courageous, energetic breed!
21. American Foxhound
Often mistaken for the Beagle, the American Foxhound is an intelligent, independent dog with a loyal, even-tempered personality. These dogs have boundless energy and do well with small children.
22. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is one of the world's oldest breeds, and with the right socialization, this elegant dog can be a good family pet.
23. Border Collie
Border Collies may be herding dogs, but they also do well with very active families. Be prepared for nearly boundless energy!
24. Belgian Malinois
Outgoing and hardworking, the Belgian Malinois is a smart dog perfect for the most active families.
25. Brittany Spaniel
The Brittany Spaniel is a playful, fun dog perfect for families with large fenced yards. These stubborn, enthusiastic dogs need lots of exercise!
26. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are energetic, smart herding dogs that do very well in active families. These beautiful dogs need lots of exercise and are very protective of their families.
Still looking for the perfect family pet? There are quite a few other dog breeds that do well with kids, including American Cocker Spaniels, Border Terriers, Beagles, Bloodhounds, Collies, Greyhounds, Pugs, Basset Hounds, Whippets, and Newfoundlands. A lot of it comes down to properly socializing and training your dog, so many breeds can be great family pets.
Best Guard Dog Breeds & Best Watch Dog Breeds
If you want a dog that will help you protect your family and property, look no further than these dog breeds. From Akitas to Mastiffs, these are the best guard dog breeds in the world.
27. Kuvasz
The Kuvasz was originally bred to guard livestock in Hungary, so you can feel confident that this breed will keep you safe. Brave, smart, independent, and intimidating, this breed is thousands of years old.
28. Alano Español
The Alano Español regularly tops lists of great watchdogs because it's so fearless, strong, and devoted. This hard-working breed can handle rugged terrain and harsh weather.
29. Aidi Dog
The Aidi Dog originated in Morocco and is a cheerful, strong guard dog. These vigilant dogs are fiercely intelligent and always ready to defend their homes.
30. Leonberger
Leonbergers are gigantic dogs, so it's easy to see why they're intimidating guardians. This breed comes from several large and giant breeds and looks something like a lion.
31. Australian Kelpie
Australian Kelpies are excellent watchdogs without boundless energy and stamina. These hard-working herders are smart and very trainable.
32. Azawakh
Azawakhs are protective, independent dogs that are devoted to their families and suspicious of strangers, making them perfect guard dogs.
33. Appenzeller Sennenhund
Watchful, lively, and smart, the Appenzeller Sennenhund is a protective, stubborn family dog.
34. Austrian Pinscher
Austrian Pinschers are devoted, protective dogs related to the German Pinscher. These dogs are good hunters, guard dogs, and companions.
35. Anatolian Shepherd
Anatolian Shepherds are ancient dogs that may date back as far as the Bronze Age. These confident, devoted dogs are excellent protectors and guard dogs.
36. Akita
Akitas may be adorable, but they're also stubborn, brave watchdogs perpetually on the lookout. These imposing Japanese dogs are a powerful working breed.
37. Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dogs aren't just great with kids! They're also alert, curious watchdogs with pleasant, independent temperaments.
38. Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is an outgoing, practical herding dog with an alert temperament. This is an intense watchdog!
39. Bullmastiff
Imposing Bullmastiffs are loyal guardians and companion dogs. These brave, affectionate pets started out as guard dogs for the British aristocracy, so you know they'll keep an eye on your castle, too.
40. Boerboel
Boerboels were originally bred as South African guard dogs, hunting big game and protecting farms.
41. Beauceron
Beaucerons are faithful, obedient, and protective dogs that started out as herders and livestock guardians. In modern times, you can find them working as military and rescue dogs!
42. Cane Corso
Cane Corsos are even-tempered and reserved, but they're also natural protectors well suited to keeping an eye on their families. These dogs are powerful, smart, and loyal.
43. Dutch Shepherd Dog
The Dutch Shepherd may be on the smaller side, but it's also an alert, muscular watchdog sometimes used for police tracking.
44. Dogo Argentino
Strong, energetic, and cheerful, the Dogo Argentino is an excellent family pet and a loyal guard dog.
45. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers are classic guard dogs originally bred to protect livestock from wolves. These powerful, territorial dogs also have a loyal, loving side.
46. German Shorthaired Pointer
German Shorthaired Pointers are smart, social hunting dogs that love adventure and keeping an eye on their families.
47. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is calm, dignified, and powerful, weighing up to 140 pounds. This guard dog was bred to protect and herd livestock.
48. Great Dane
Great Danes can weigh up to 200 pounds and stand over 30 inches tall, making them imposing watchdogs. Affectionate with family and shy around strangers, these dogs are alert companions.
49. German Wirehaired Pointer
German Wirehaired Pointers are hunting dogs, but they're also fiercely protective watchdogs well suited to protecting your family and house.
50. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees dog breed was bred to fight predators like wolves and bears, so you know it's a great fearless guard dog. These massive dogs are sweet with small children and vigilant, hardworking watchdogs.
51. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are famously loyal, alert, and obedient, making them popular watchdogs and working dogs. This breed is commonly found working in police and military agencies!
52. Newfoundland Dog
If you're looking for a giant dog that's good with kids and protective, Newfoundland may be for you. These hardworking, gentle dogs can even rescue people from the water!
53. Weimaraner
Weimaraners are excellent companions, hunters, and guard dogs. These agile dogs can hunt wolves and bears!
54. Chow Chow
Don't let the face fool you: Chow Chows may be adorable, but they're also independent, alert watchdogs perfect for hunting and guarding.
55. Spanish Mastiff
Spanish Mastiffs were originally bred to guard livestock and fight off predators and thieves. They're imposing, fearless, and powerful, making them perfect guard dogs!
56. Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs may look delicate, but they're hardy sheep guardians that can withstand the cold, wet weather of the Shetland Islands in Scotland.
57. Tibetan Mastiff
Tibetan Mastiffs are intense, giant dogs from the Himalayan Mountains. This aloof, independent breed has served as a guard dog and a watchdog for the Dalai Lama and countless others.
Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Life
Although many dog breeds need backyards and space to run around, if you live in an apartment, there's no need to despair! This list of the best dog breeds for apartment life will help you find a small dog that will love your smaller spaces.
58. Affenpinscher
Affenpinschers are small dogs originally bred as ratters. These playful, curious pups do well in apartments and make excellent beginner pets.
59. Australian Silky Terrier
Australian Silky Terriers are pint-sized dogs with energetic, friendly personalities. They'll love your apartment!
60. American Hairless Terrier
These goofy little dogs are feisty, co-dependent, and smart. Plus, as the name suggests, the American Hairless Terrier will keep your apartment hair-free!
61. Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons are loyal, stubborn little dogs that love to be glued to your side. It's an active breed but also one that can handle apartment living.
62. Border Terrier
Border Terriers are cute lap dogs perfect for singles, seniors, and apartment dwellers. These hard-working little dogs have distinctive wiry coats and only weigh 11 to 14 pounds.
63. Cesky Terrier
With an adorable mop of hair and an affectionate, family-oriented personality, the Cesky Terrier is an excellent choice for anyone with a small home. This dog is also low-shedding!
64. Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Dandie Dinmont Terriers may have a goofy name, but they're reserved, smart little dogs with endless amounts of personality. Even better, they love any size of home!
65. Dutch Smoushond
The Dutch Smoushond hails from the Netherlands. This shaggy, wire-coated breed gets along well with other pets and can handle a small apartment.
66. Drever Dog
The Swedish Drever dog needs a fair amount of exercise but is otherwise very low-maintenance. As long as you take this breed for regular walks, they should adapt well to your apartment!
67. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds may be hunting dogs, but that doesn't mean they don't enjoy lounging around the house. These loyal, affectionate dogs have a lazy side, so you will need to make sure they get enough exercise.
68. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a relatively new breed with a patient, people-oriented personality. Weighing up to 18 pounds, this little dog will fit into any apartment!
69. Chinese Crested Dog
This distinctive breed is shy, somewhat yappy, and very devoted. The Chinese Crested isn't recommended if you have small kids, but they will do well in adult-only apartments!
70. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are classic apartment dogs because they're easy to groom, friendly lap dogs with affectionate, entertaining personalities. This breed is ideal for city dwellers!
71. Finnish Spitz
The Finnish Spitz is a small game hunter bred to point out animals hiding in hedges. This little dog is independent, happy, and perfect for apartments.
72. Havanese
Havanese dogs are active little pets that love to stay close to their owners. Weighing up to 13 pounds, this breed can easily squeeze into small homes.
73. Klein Poodle
Falling between the Miniature Poodle and the Standard Poodle, the lesser-known Klein Poodle is a playful, goofy pet that can handle apartment living. Just make sure you take this breed out for regular walks!
74. Keeshond
If you've never heard of the Keeshond, you're missing out! This German breed is alert, lively, and well-sized for apartments, though they can be very vocal.
75. Italian Greyhound
Most people think of Italian Greyhounds as fast, athletic dogs, but they also have a lazy side. These lean, low-shedding dogs typically weigh less than 15 pounds.
76. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are great apartment dogs that offer all of the personality of a Schnauzer in a very compact size. These smart, brave little dogs can also serve as watchdogs.
77. Maltese
Maltese dogs are excellent little companion dogs, weighing only 4 to 7 pounds. They're also surprisingly athletic!
78. Pomeranian
Pomeranians have been popular lap dogs and companions for hundreds of years. These little dogs weigh up to 7 pounds and do well in apartments but aren't well suited to small children.
79. Papillon
Papillons got their name from their distinctive ears - "papillon" means "butterfly" in French - and they're also one of the world's oldest toy spaniels. This agile, active little dog can handle apartment living as long as you provide regular exercise.
80. Norwich Terrier
The Norwich Terrier is a small dog from the United Kingdom originally bred to hunt rodents. This working terrier is small enough for apartments but can be a big barker.
81. Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles are the smallest of the Poodle breeds, weighing only 7 to 9 pounds. These little dogs are hypoallergenic and don't chew, scratch, or dig excessively, making them a good option if you live in an apartment.
82. Russkiy Toy
Russkiy Toys are tiny lapdogs from Russia. These 3- to 6-pound dogs are thought to be one of the smallest dog breeds in the world!
83. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is one of the world's oldest herding dogs, hailing from Wales in the UK. This stubborn, smart dog is perfectly sized for apartment living.
84. Pug
Pugs are popular with all kinds of dog lovers, but they're especially well suited to apartment living. These cheerful, outgoing dogs have a mischievous side and can be very entertaining.
85. Pekingese
Pekingese dogs were originally bred as companions and lapdogs for the Chinese Imperial court. These little dogs are excellent in small spaces but can be a little yappy.
86. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso has a glorious, silky coat and a confident, playful personality. This small dog has been around for at least 1,000 years and started as a guard dog for Tibetan monasteries.
87. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises have hypoallergenic fluffy white coats and charming personalities. They're excellent companion dogs and can thrive in small homes.
88. Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier is an independent, sensitive dog that excels in agility and hunting. This small dog does well in apartments as long as they get enough exercise.
89. Welsh Terrier
Welsh Terriers can handle living in apartments, though they will need regular walks. These dogs are playful, confident, and alert.
90. West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier, commonly called the Westie, is a fun, charming little dog perfectly suited to apartment living. This easy-to-train dog does need regular walks and prefers not to be left alone.
91. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers (affectionately known as Yorkies) are smart lapdogs with lion-like courage. Weighing up to 6 pounds, these dogs have fine, silky hair and demanding personalities.
The Bottom Line
We hope you found the perfect dog breed for your needs, whether you want a pup that can handle kids, guard duty, or apartment living. With so many dog breeds in the world, there's sure to be a perfect option (or three) for you!
You may also be interested in:
Featured Image Credit: Piqsels
Expert dog care, straight to your inbox
News, insights, expert advice, and everything dog.
No spam — unsubscribe anytime.
By signing up, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.
How useful was this post?
Click a star to rate. You can leave written feedback afterwards. (We read all feedback.)
Nicole has loved animals of all sizes her whole life so it's no wonder she has dedicated her career to helping them through what she loves best: learning, writing, and sharing knowledge with others. She’s the proud mom of two dogs, a cat, and a human. With a degree in Education and 15+ years of writing experience, Nicole wants to help pet parents and pets around the planet to live happy, safe, and healthy lives.
