Today, we’re setting sail on a journey through the many adoptable dog breeds that aren’t just loving and loyal but also gel fabulously well with your pint-sized, high-energy, two-legged family members.
From the playful, lovable rescue Labs to the patient, gentle giants like the Newfoundland, we’ve lined up an enchanting array of dog breeds waiting to fill your homes with wet-nosed kisses, joyful barks, and unforgettable moments of shared love and compassion.
So, fasten your seatbelts, friends! We’re about to embark on our grand exploration of the 20 best dog breeds for kids and families to adopt and love. No whining, wagging, or woofing at the back, please! We promise it’s going to be a paw-sitively inspiring and informative journey. Let’s unleash the love of adopting, one wag at a time! (Please note, listed at the bottom are the rescue organizations for each breed covered)
Let’s Get Started with Four of the Best Dog Breeds for Kids and Families to Adopt and Love: the Cavi, the Saint, the Staffie & the Schnauzer…
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (Cavies)
Nope, not named after the recently crowned King Charles III in England. The ancestors of this sporting and affectionate pupperoo strutted their stuff alongside King Charles II in the palaces of Europe circa the 17th century! In fact, many famous paintings from those times feature the companionable Cavalier sitting loyally at her owner’s feet. The chestnut and white coloured coat is called Blenheim, after the estate of the Duke of Marlborough, where spaniels of this colour were first developed.* Today, the coat variations include ruby, black and tan, and the tri-colour. Easy to care for, friendly and obedient with a constantly wagging tail, this breed is a heaven-sent family dog. Weighing in a petite yet sturdy 5-8kgs.
St. Bernard (Saints)
Who doesn’t love the Saint Bernard? Often referred to as the “Nanny” dog, their love of children is well documented. But they are even more famous as intrepid search and rescue dogs. It all started way back in 982 AD at the St Bernard Hospice where monks of the St. Augustine order assisted distressed travellers as they traversed the Great St Bernard Pass on foot. The monks found that the dogs were of great help in their search for lost travellers, as the dogs could discover victims buried beneath snow drifts. Amazingly enough, some of these remarkable dogs would operate alone as they scoured the desolate mountain dips and valleys in search of beleaguered travellers. When they discovered one, they would simply lie on the person to keep them warm while barking and moaning furiously until help arrived. The dogs carried food and drink in barrels attached to the collars to revive the travellers.
One thousand years later, we find the modern-day St Bernard still operating as search and rescue dogs, but for the most part, their new gig is counter-surfing. Yup, they’re the heaviest dog in the world, and any food left unattended on the kitchen surfaces is fair game. Tranquil, benevolent, gentle and trustworthy, this fine dog will give his heart and soul for his family. A word to the wise, space is the name of the game as this pup weighs in at 50 to 91kgs.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Staffies)
Undisputable facts come to the fore when it comes to the much-loved Staffie. Firstly, this plucky dog’s loyalty and devotion are legendary. Secondly, this dog has “great strength for its size, is intelligent and very affectionate, especially with children.”* Originally hailing from the county of Stafford in England in the 19th century, the Staffie has become a firm South African family favourite in the 21st century. Active and agile, walkies and playtime are a must for this breed. Who better to keep this doggeroo happy and healthy than an active family? 11-17kgs of affection and fun.
Miniature Schnauzer (Mini Schnauzer)
A hugely loving little dog whose main focus in life is to be an integral member of their family. They like to be involved with all that’s happenin’ all of the time. But they’re not only devoted companion dogs. This active breed was used as messenger dogs during World Wars I and II. They were used to help the Red Cross doing therapy work and also found themselves in the role of police dogs.6 Certainly an all-rounder of a doggo. Friendly to all and sundry, easy to train and loving with children. It’s important to note that their coat needs a lot of attention, and regular grooming is a must. Weighing at 6-7kgs.
Next Up, More of the Best Dogs to Adopt and Love: the Spaniel, the Beagle, the Newfie & the Frenchie
Cocker Spaniel (Spaniels)
It’s hard to choose what is cutest about this robust, medium-sized family dog. Could it be the softest cheeks, the long silken ears, or its flowing fur? Or are the very best things about this breed its temperament – gentle and affectionate – and its ‘tude – “merry, lively and exuberant!”* Thought to have originated in the 14th century in Spain, the cocker spaniel that we know today was recorded in England in the 19th century.
Traditionally a gun dog, this spaniel has morphed into the quintessential companion dog. Comfortable on the couch, make no mistake, but even happier running around the garden after the kids. When you meet this outstanding doggo you’ll fall in love in an instant and stay in love for a lifetime. This pup weighs in at 13-15kgs. Interestingly, the spaniel’s coat has been bred to every colour from orange roan to tri-colour. It’s altogether cool to see.
Beagle
First mentioned in Chaucer’s 14th century Canterbury Tales and then immortalized as Snoopy, the Beagle’s fans are legionary. Why, Queen Elizabeth I swanned around with a pack of ‘Pocket Beagles,’* which were reputed to be no more than 25cm tall. Despite its illustrious heritage, the Beagle is a down-to-earth family dog whose virtues include an even temperament, amiable nature and obvious intelligence. This sturdy little hound is always game, well, for a game! Lively, active, bold and friendly, he’s the kind of dog everyone wants to be around. Bred to travel in packs, this little one would love to be part of its own loving pack. The breed standard varies in size from 8kgs to 14kgs fully grown.
Newfoundland (Newfie)
The Newfie is a force of nature, ready and willing to rescue those in peril, especially if water is involved. There’s many an old tale about them, from a brave doggo jumping into the ocean to rescue a ship’s canary to how one Newfie saw a young boy floundering in the middle of a lake and in two ticks launched himself off the bank and swam out to the boy whereupon the young lad grabbed his tail and the brave dog swam him ashore. Nowadays, Newfies work with the Coast Guards and various navies to save those drowning in rough seas. You can find them leaping from helicopters straight into the swirling water to save lives.
Superdogs? Yes and no, the Newfie is built for water rescue from the ground up, featuring large, markedly webbed feet and a flat, dense, and water-resistant double coat. A natural love of water coupled with a life-saving instinct make this dog well-suited to his chosen profession. Oh, and yes, these heroes make wonderful family dogs. Their temperament is routinely described as “docile, responsive and exceptionally gentle while their bearing, noble and majestic.”* When they aren’t saving the world, you’ll find your average Newfie lazing about with a young child, using them as a pillow while playing on her phone. 50-68kgs for this breed.
French Bulldog (Frenchie)
Bonjour! It’s the French Bulldog. (Too cute for its own good!) These stocky dynamos have become wildly popular with an astonishingly high price tag.
“Highly adaptable and the absolute companion dog, the French Bulldog is the clown of the dog world. This fashionable breed is currently in demand and fetches among the highest prices in the land. Puppy prices range from R20,000 to about R70,000.”7 But not to worry, if you’re just dying to have this little pup in your home, there’s always the French Bulldog Rescue to connect with to find your Frenchie. (See a list of rescue organizations below.)
Its origin is disputed, but all are in agreement that this “vivacious, deeply affectionate dog”* is a charmer. You will find the Frenchie up for playtime and ready to be spoiled by your family. Weighing in at 10-13kgs.
Mission Adopt for Kids and Families Continues with the Golden, the Maltese, the Lab & the Border Collie
Golden Retrievers (Goldens)
Everything good and beautiful lives in the heart of the Golden Retriever. Introduced to the world by Britain’s Lord Tweedmouth in the 19th century, this breed is a marvel of engineering, sorry, I mean doggy heritage, which includes dashes of “Bloodhound, Tweed Water Spaniel, Labrador and Irish Setter.”1 Intuitive and intelligent Goldens have been at the forefront of the modern-day working dog. We see them showing natural performance and talents as guide dogs, hunting dogs, drug and bomb-sniffing dogs, and they excel in search and rescue and obedience training.
But over and above all of these accomplishments, this alert and responsive dog is happiest in the embrace of their family, where they show their love to each and every member without reservation. Lots of interaction and regular exercise are most definitely required for this breed to flourish. It must be said that they can be a little boisterous in the ‘teenage years.’ Goldens weigh in at 27-36kgs.
Maltese
Weighing in a ‘hefty’ 2-3kgs, the little Maltese packs a large punch of friendliness wherever it goes. And, boy, has it gone just about everywhere on the planet! This world traveller started their journey when the Phoenician traders took them to the island of Malta two thousand years ago. Two thousand years later, having survived the fall of Rome, the Dark Ages and the Napoleonic Wars,2 they are still thriving on the nearest couch, being cuddled by the kiddos of the home. For those who love to teach their dogs tricks, the Maltese won’t let you down. Full of fun and vigour, this little pup will make a great addition to your family.
Labrador Retriever (Labs)
Labs are even-tempered, trainable, responsive and companionable, all of which boils down to them being fun, friendly and family oriented. They’re working dogs too. You’ll find them outperforming the majority of dogs in retrieving game, being guide/support dogs for the disabled and sniffer dogs capable of ferreting out drugs and explosives. And, boy, oh boy, do they love to swim! It must be their heritage working with fishermen to pull in the nets on the coasts of Newfoundland and Greenland. This pup thrives on being at the centre of the family. And if you just so happen to live near a lake, dam, pond, river, ocean, pool or puddle, you’ll see a doggo joyfully frolicking in it. Add two cups of kids, a dozen laughs, and generous sprinkles of love. Perfection. Weighing in at 25-34kgs. Note, they looove their food; you’ll need to keep an eye on their waistline.
Border Collie
“The Border Collie has an effortless gait, lifting its feet just a short distance off the ground”1, i.e., it’s made for running around like a mad thing herding sheep skillfully and precisely. From as early as the 1700s, the Border Collie was valued as an outstanding herder on the English borders with Scotland and Wales, thus ultimately earning its name. These ultra-intelligent dogs need “daily mental stimulation and physical exercise”3 to avoid falling into unhappiness. This means if you’re a family that likes to jog, cycle, hike, play frisbee for a solid hour a day, train and enter your dog in dog sports and have a huge garden, then please apply. Perhaps more suitable for tweens and older kids as they might just decide to herd the little kids around. Friendly, responsive, affectionate and trainable, this firecracker of a dog will bounce into your life and fill it with energy, light and love. 14-20kgs – all built for endurance; feed accordingly!
Let’s Not Forget the Following Fab Four Adoptable Breeds, Just Right for Kids and Families: the Sausage Dog, the Pom, the Collie & the Basset
Dachshund (Sausage Dog)
“Their defiant carriage of head and intelligent expression indicates their courage.”*
“I would rather train a striped zebra to balance an Indian club than induce a dachshund to heed my slightest command. When I address Fred, I never have to raise either my voice or my hopes. He even disobeys me when I instruct him in something he wants to do.” — E. B. White.4
By all accounts, a spirited little doggo! A dog of German origin, his heritage was chasing small animals to ground. Today’s Dachshund is more interested in avidly chasing down every ball they encounter. Fetch with a twist – it seems, in that it’s highly debatable, they’ll bring it back… It’s funny, but it is true; they can be stubborn. However, along with their innate stubbornness lives a heart that is loyal and devoted to a fault. Their continued popularity as a family dog is unquestionable, and experience shows that as soon as one Worshond joins the family, a second follows shortly on its heels. The standard-size Dachshund weighs in at 9-12kgs, with the miniature no more than 5kgs.
Pomeranians (Poms)
Here’s a foxy little number to keep you upbeat, on your toes and all-around happy! Say hello to the Pom. Bright, intelligent eyes, friendly demeanour and vivacious spirit, describe this sweet family doggo. Despite its diminutive size, the Pom “is allied to larger Spitz breeds, like the Keeshond, and is descended from Arctic sledge-hauling dogs”* Also, another source says that regardless of its size, “it makes a good watchdog.”1 Who knew? What a dog! Boasting a plume tail that cascades down its back and an uber-fluffy coat, this dog is no shirker in the looks department either. So there you have it: a winning combo of desirable – cute, cuddly and just a little bit sassy. One gets the strong feeling that the Pom is indisputably a first-rate family doggy. Weighing in at 2-3kgs.
Collie (Known worldwide as legendary film star Lassie)
Some say the Collie descended from “dogs taken to Scotland by the Romans in 50 BC.”* Others say that it was derived from Scottish working collie stock and “enjoyed royal patronage when Queen Victoria kept the breed at Balmoral Castle, Scotland.”1 What we do know for sure is that it comes in two coat types, rough and smooth. The rough-coated Collie has experienced considerably greater popularity than its counterpart. In fact, the phrase ‘glamorous film star’ comes up when you search Collie on Google… no, just joking, but suffice it to say this hugely famous dog has made its mark on popular culture.
But what about its status as a family doggeroo? The Collie is gifted with responsiveness and intelligence, making training easy. It’s a highly loyal breed whose dignified stature belies a friendly, playful disposition. Officially categorized as a working dog, you’ll find the Collie does seek out activity and needs plenty of exercise and playtime to stay happy and healthy. Additionally: “The breed is also known for its sensitivity and awareness of emotions in people.”5 Could a family dog be asked for anything more? I think not. The Collie weighs in at a spry 18-30kgs.
Basset Hound (Bassets)
A-howlin’ and a-barkin’ – yip, there’s no way around it, Bassets are highly communicative dogs, but that’s what Basset lovers appreciate about them. You could say they keep us informed as to the progress of their day! While most Bassets come from France (Basset meaning “low” in French), the Basset Hound was bred in Great Britain towards the end of the 19th century.1
Sporting such unique features as the world’s second longest ears (the Bloodhound holds the title), a scimitar tail and enough skin for an extra dog, you might think the Basset had let it go to his head… Nothing could be further from the truth; these sturdily-built doggos are an affectionate, placid breed who thrive on love and attention. Active and always available to play, the kids will quickly bond with them. Weighing in at 18-27kgs. Nota Bene: watch that waistline!
The Next Four Dogs to Adopt and Love, Plus One for Luck: The Bully, the Shih Tzu, the Mini Poodle, the Husky & Our Plus One: the Boxer
Bull Terriers (Bullies)
The Bully breed was first standardized by one Mr James Hinks of Birmingham in the West Midlands of England way back in the day, also known as the 1850s. The best description of this breed has to be the following: “a very long, oval-shaped head with no stop, small triangular eyes; thin, erect ears; and very tight-fitting coat.”1 It’s a uniquely proportioned doggo with a matching special personality that blossoms under careful training and individual attention. Despite a tough-guy exterior, they are affectionate, friendly dogs who are good with children and this is perhaps the truest description of the breed.
For those looking for a smaller model, the Bull Terrier also comes in the lesser-known Miniature Bull Terrier size. How cute is that! The standard Bull Terrier weighs in at a hefty 24-28kgs while the Mini tips the scales at a mere 11-15kgs. They’re a bona fide Mini Me, just right for a loving family of their own.
Shih Tzu
This gentle soul originated in the 1600s from Tibet and China and was developed by crossing miniature Chinese breeds with Tibetan breeds. The result was a charming little doggo capable of great loyalty and with plenty of game and intelligence. Small, to be sure, but this dog will fill your heart with its love and affection. They’re the kind of dogs who will follow you from room to room with a happy wag. Outgoing and friendly, it’s a family doggo through and through. Please note that this breed requires regular grooming and, at a minimum, weekly brushing. This little tyke weighs in at 4.5-7kgs.
Miniature Poodle (Mini Poodles)
This intelligent breed began its history in Germany as the Water Dog (circa 1600s), and then on to France, where they became celebrated circus dogs able to learn tricks in a thrice.* Owing to this remarkable trainability and lively mind, the Poodle can still be found performing circus tricks in Las Vegas. Today we know the Mini Poodle more as a consummate couch potato and spirited companion. Side note: From the late 1940s to the 1960s, the Mini Poodle was the most popular breed in the world.1 What a heritage for this little pupperoo. Suffice it to say that in the 21st century, the Mini Poodle is still intelligent, lively and energetic and is still loved and adored by families the world over. Weighing in at 12-14kgs.
Husky
“Energy” – Definition: Husky! Perfect for slightly older kids who like playing games and running about the place shrieking in delight while the husky howls in unison. It may sound chaotic but it certainly captures the sights and sounds of a loving home where a Husky gives her heart and lays her head. Famously known as a sledging dog with excellent endurance (Think Iditarod7), the Husky originally hails from northeast Asia in the 1800s. However, it is considered an American breed. Many, of course, know better, as the Husky has gone on to creep into the hearts and homes of many South Africans across the country. This dependable, friendly and alert dog weighs in at 16-27kgs.
Boxer
Did you know a Boxer is considered responsive enough to be used as a guide dog in some countries?1 Yip, this playful and affectionate doggo is highly trainable, which is a good thing since it has a guarding instinct and may not always be immediately friendly to strangers. To its family, however, a Boxer displays tremendous love and needs to be loved back just as fiercely. The bottom line with this patient doggo is that it is simply terrific with children. Originally hailing from Germany in the late 1800s, this breed weighs in at 25-32kgs.
Conclusion
And there you have it, dear friends of fur and fun! We’ve wagged and woofed our way through the delightful world of the 20 best dog breeds for kids and families to adopt and love. Adoptable dog breeds that are not just kid-friendly but truly family-friendly in every sense of the word.
Remember, when you adopt, you’re not just adding a new four-legged member to your family, but you’re also giving a deserving dog a second leash on life. Every paw that patters across your living room floor is a step towards a world where every dog has a home, and every home has the love of a dog.
We hope we’ve inspired you to open your hearts and homes to these wonderful, love-filled breeds. Let’s remember, in the grand game of fetch that is life; it’s love that we throw out that comes bounding back to us.
Rescue Organizations
https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/animal-rescue-service/Cavalier-Rescue-South-Africa
https://saintbernard.rescueme.org/za
https://staffordrescuesa.co.za/
https://www.schnauzerrescuesouthafrica.co.za/
https://twitter.com/spanielwelfare
https://www.facebook.com/BeagleRescueSA/
https://newfoundland.rescueme.org/za
https://www.facebook.com/FrenchBulldogRescueSA/
https://www.goldenrescue.co.za/
https://www.malteserescue.co.za/
http://www.labrescue.org.za/UK/
https://bordercollierescue.co.za/
https://www.facebook.com/DachshundRescueSouthAfrica/
https://pomeranian.rescueme.org/za
https://bordercollierescue.co.za/
https://www.sabasset.org/
https://www.adorabullterrier.com/
https://www.adorabullterrier.com/
https://shihtzu.rescueme.org/za
https://poodle.rescueme.org/za
https://www.huskyrescue.org.za/
https://www.friendsofthedog.co.za/boxer-rescue.html
Resources
1. Dogs by David Alderton, Dorling Kindersley
2. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Border_Collie
4. E. B. White https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dachshund
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Collie
6. https://www.friendsofthedog.co.za/schnauzer-miniature.html
7. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iditarod_Trail_Sled_Dog_Race
* The Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds by Juliette Cunliffe
