Dogs are man’s best friend. These soft, cuddly and playful creatures can make even the hardest of hearts soften. However, it might be hard for some people, especially those with children, to find the right dog for them. In the end, when a family finds the perfect dog, it will bring so much joy and happiness!

Dogs can be wonderful companions for children as well. Having a pet can teach responsibility at a young age, helping them grow up to be responsible adults. So, here are five of the best dog breeds for families looking to bring a playful companion (or two) into their lives:

      Labrador Retriever 

Labrador Retrievers were bred in England during the 19th century. They were originally bred as fishermen’s dogs but were used later on as hunting and service dogs, like they are today. These dogs can live up to 12 years with proper care, which includes lots of exercise. They train exceptionally well, which makes them the top breed for service dogs. Labrador Retrievers are one of the best dog breeds for families, as they are very calm and gentle with children, as well as very loyal and loving.

      Golden Retriever 

Golden Retrievers are quite similar to the labrador, though they are much more energetic. These dogs were bred during the 19th century in Scotland as water and land hunting dogs. They can live up to 12 years, although they do need lots of exercise and a good amount of grooming because of their long hair. Golden Retrievers are most commonly used as service and therapy dogs because of their calm temperament, patience and extreme loyalty. These dogs are amazing with children and other dogs. They are very energetic and playful, making them great companions for active children. However, they can also make great companions for children with physical and mental ailments, as they are at the top of the list of best therapy dog breeds, right next to the Labrador Retrievers. 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels were bred in Europe during the 16th century. They were originally bred as royalty companion dogs. These dogs are used today as emotional support and therapy dogs, as well as service dogs. They can live up to 14 years; not as much exercise is needed unlike some other dog breeds, but exercise is always highly recommended for any dog. This breed trains exceptionally well, they are also very loving and comforting dogs. They love children and are very playful and gentle with them, their small size making them perfect for cuddles!

    Beagle

The history of the Beagle goes way back into the 5th century B.C. They were bred to be hunting dogs, and they were exceptionally good at it because of their amazing sense of smell. Beagles are still used as hunting dogs to this day; as they are one of the best hunting breeds. They can live up to 14 years with proper care. Beagles are full of energy, love and snuggles. They are very loyal to their owners and very kind to other people. They really are all bark, no bite, though they do tend to bark a lot, which could make them unsuitable for families who would rather have a quiet environment. However, Beagles make great companions, especially for those who are very energetic. But they can also be a wonderful source of comfort and love, as well as great foot warmers!

     Standard Poodle

Nobody really knows for sure where the Standard poodle came from, though it is most commonly believed that they originated from Germany. Poodles got their name from the German word “pudel”, which means to “splash in water”. These dogs were bred for water hunting, hence their name. There are three types of poodles: toy, miniature and standard. Standard Poodles are the best breed of poodles for families because of their size. Though they may seem like a lot of work because of their hair, which does take a lot of grooming, they train amazingly well and make great companions! They can also live up to 18 years! Standard Poodles are very loving and loyal pets. They are also very playful and gentle with children, and they get along great with other dogs! 

Pets can bring so much joy and happiness to a family. Dogs are great companions who can help you through a tough time or help face your fears. They can even help create those “remember when?” memories that help shape people and bring them closer together.