Family Dogs 2026: Here are the 10 best breeds of adorable dog for families with young kids - including the loving Labrador Retriever 🐶

If you’ve been thinking about getting a new dog then you’re not alone – Royal Kennel Club (that’s the new name for the UK Kennel Club) figures show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels over recent years.

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes - the UK Kennel Club recognises 221 different pedigree dogs, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).

Then there are all manner of crossbreeds, from so-called ‘designer dogs’ to lovable mongrels.

So there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or an easy to train dog.

Read more:

Dogs Training: These are the 10 easiest to train breeds of adorable dog - including the loving Labrador

Not Aggressive Dogs: These 10 adorable dog breeds are unlikely to show aggression - including the loving Labrador Retriever

There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.

Meanwhile if you have young childen - or are planning a family - then there are certain breeds that should top your list.

These are dogs that tend to be calm, gentle, loving and patient - that are unlikley to snap and enjoy playing games and snuggling with their young human siblings.

Here are 10 family-friendly breeds that fit the bill perfectly and should become firm friends with kids.

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