Best Dog Breeds For Families With Kids

Young customer holding her new puppy inside Pretty Pets Kennel Singapore

When it comes to choosing a family pet, selecting the right dog breed is crucial, especially for families with kids. 

Dogs are more than just pets; they become part of the family, offering companionship, love, and often a bit of chaos! Some breeds are particularly well-suited for life with children, bringing the perfect blend of energy, affection, and patience. 

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best dog breeds for families with kids, considering factors like temperament, size, and energy levels. 

We’ve rounded up a list that caters to diverse family dynamics and lifestyles. Coincidentally these are also some of the more popular dog breeds in Singapore, so read on!

If you’re looking for a playful companion for your children or a gentle soul to complete your family circle, we’re confident you’ll find a breed here that’s just paw-fect for your home.

Posted on Google Google
Serene Tham profile picture
Serene Tham
0 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
It's been 1.5 months since we got our Japanese Spitz puppy and she has been an absolute joy. Much thanks to Yvonne for answering all our questions and being so helpful in sharing information on caring for our little pup. She had a clean bill of health and came home healthy, energetic and quite well adjusted. After purchasing this little one, we still keep in touch with Yvonne and are grateful for the after sales support indeed. :)
Posted on Google Google
Ivan Cheng profile picture
Ivan Cheng
2 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Amazing experience with Pretty Pets Kennel!! Special shoutout to Branden who took the effort and patience to explain to us about the cavapoo. Really love at first sight. Initially wanted to have a second thought but with the professional explanation. It left us with only 1 choice. Guess what? We got a new family member now…☺️🎊🎉
Posted on Google Google
Su Chew profile picture
Su Chew
3 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I got my family’s dream dog, a Papillion-Japanese spitz mix at Pretty Pet’s Kennel! I’m very grateful to Yvonne who introduced me to the designer mix dog. According to Google, it has better tolerance with Singapore’s humid heat vs Pomsky (or pure Japanese spitz). Pretty Pets Kennel designer mixes can be rare and have high visibility, so it’s important to secure them quickly if you really desire them. I’m lucky Yvonne kept me up to date on the sale this litter. ❤️ After I brought him back, Yvonne checked in daily for about 3 days to make sure the puppy was settling well and I was doing all the right things. I’m lucky that he is about 50% toilet trained from the moment I brought him in. Perhaps it’s also part of Pretty Pets structure that he is partly toilet trained. They also ethically check on some viruses before they release the pup.
Posted on Google Google
Dionis Soh profile picture
Dionis Soh
3 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Went down to pretty pets kennel with no intention of getting a puppy there but Yvonne was really assuring and helpful. She also checked in with us on how our Ryo was adapting.
Posted on Google Google
Jermaine Huang profile picture
Jermaine Huang
5 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We had a wonderful experience with Branden, who gave us thoughtful recommendations and helped us find a suitable dog for our family. He was patient with all our questions, took the time to understand our needs, and guided us throughout the entire process. Branden was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful. His excellent service made the whole journey smooth and reassuring. We really appreciate his patience and support, and would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a furry addition to their family!
Posted on Google Google
Shirley Wee profile picture
Shirley Wee
5 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
After 5 years, we came back to get our 2nd puppy, this time round to accompany our little boy. Thanks Branden for the great advice and care for our little puppy 🙏🏻
Posted on Google Google
Rae Lim profile picture
Rae Lim
6 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We’ve had such a lovely experience with them, from the very first time we met Yvonne to even after Pebbles came home. We actually chanced upon this place quite randomly and very much on a whim. Our boy had very recently left us, and at the time we were simply looking around — not even specifically for another puppy. Yvonne was extremely warm and took the time to get to know us. When she found out that we had previously had a Japanese Spitz, she asked if we would like to have a look at the puppies. I don’t think we need to say much more after that. ❤️ Our puppy girl came home with us the following week. What really impressed us was seeing how well the furkids/babies were cared for. We know that, unfortunately, the conditions in these situations are not always ideal, so it was reassuring to see the care and attention given to the puppies. We were even able to interact with our puppy’s birth parents, which was something really special for us. The aftercare has been just as lovely. Yvonne continues to check in with us and follows up to make sure everything is alright, and she has always been there when we have questions or concerns. We really appreciate that the care didn’t simply stop once our puppy went home. There is probably never a “right” time to welcome another furkid after losing one. We certainly weren’t looking to replace our boy, and we know our hearts weren’t really prepared for another puppy so soon. But we are incredibly grateful for that one simple question that led us to meet our little puppy girl. Thank you, Yvonne, for bringing our little puppy girl into our lives. ❤️🐾
Posted on Google Google
Ng Si En profile picture
Ng Si En
8 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Yvonne was (and still is) helpful and patient in answering our queries about our bichon puppy and providing timely advice, even after more than a month of taking our puppy home! She’s healthy and doing well
Posted on Google Google
Rex Chan profile picture
Rex Chan
8 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
​We wanted to send a huge thank you to Yvonne for all help and guidance. Taking the time to patiently explain everything to us made us feel so comfortable and confident in choosing our lovely furkid. Your kindness and expertise mean the world to us—thank you for helping us bring our new little one home!
Posted on Google Google
Xinwen profile picture
Xinwen
15 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Jared has been extremely helpful and caring from the very beginning when we welcomed our Pomeranian, Kai, into our family. Although I have had dogs before, having a puppy is a new experience for our children, and there were many things for us to learn and adjust to together. Jared really went above and beyond. He even created a group chat to keep in touch with us, follow up on Kai’s daily progress, and make sure we were doing well and taking good care of him. Whenever we had questions or were unsure about something, he was always patient, responsive and ready to guide us. What we appreciate most is that his care didn’t stop after we brought Kai home. You can really feel that he genuinely cares about the puppies and wants them to settle happily into their new families. Thank you, Jared, for all your help, patience and care. You made welcoming Kai into our family such a smooth and reassuring experience. 🩵🐶 Highly recommended! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Verified by Trustindex
Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more

Beagle

Beagle puppy sitting calmly on white fur with pink fortune-themed backdrop
Beagle puppy sitting sweetly in front of a lucky charm backdrop

Starting our list is the incredibly charming Beagle, a delightful bundle of joy that comes in a compact size. 

These dogs, which can be classified as small to medium in size, truly embody the essence of friendliness. Their playful and inquisitive nature makes them an ideal companion for active children, as they love to explore and engage in various activities. 

Beagles strike a perfect balance in terms of size; they are not too large or small, allowing them to fit comfortably in a wide range of family environments. 

Renowned for their steadfast loyalty and steady temperament, Beagles are reliable companions for your kids. They are always ready to participate in fun games or simply snuggle up for some quality cuddle time.

(It’s important to note that the Beagle isn’t HDB-Approved!)

Pug

A black Pug is gently held belly-up, gazing straight at the camera with wide, curious eyes. Captured at Pretty Pets Kennel, this intimate and playful moment highlights the Pug’s affectionate personality and trust in human touch — perfect for bonding-themed visuals, pet-parent storytelling, or promotional content.
Cheeky black Pug sitting upright and mid-lick at Pretty Pets Kennel — full of personality and charm.

Let’s talk about Pugs. 

These dogs are well-known and loved for their cute faces and strong bodies. Pugs look charming and have great traits, making them a good choice for families with kids. 

They can fit into many homes because of their small size and friendly nature, which makes them perfect family pets.

Pugs are very loving and enjoy being around people. They build strong bonds with everyone in the family, especially kids, creating a warm and happy home. 

Their playful and sometimes cheeky behaviour brings joy and laughter to families as they play and show love. Even though they are playful, Pugs don’t have too much energy. 

This makes them great for living indoors and for families who prefer a calm lifestyle. In short, Pugs are loving companions that add fun and warmth to any home.

French Bulldog

Blue French Bulldog puppy sitting on soft surface in Singapore
A well-balanced French Bulldog puppy with calm posture.

The French Bulldog, or otherwise known as Frenchie, is easy to recognize with its bat-like ears and small body. 

They are a lovable dog breed that fits well in family life. French Bulldogs are friendly and calm, which many people like. They are great with children, showing patience and kindness, making them good companions for kids.

These dogs also do not need much exercise, so they are good for families with small yards (or without one at all!)

Their small size means they can live happily in apartments without feeling cramped. Plus, French Bulldogs are usually quiet and do not bark much. This makes them a great choice for families who want a calm home.

(It’s important to note that the French Bulldog isn’t HDB-Approved!)

Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise puppy with fluffy white coat, hypoallergenic small companion dog
Bichon Frise puppy with fluffy white coat, hypoallergenic small companion dog

The Bichon Frise is a small dog breed known for its lively personality and charming traits.

 Easily recognised by its soft, fluffy white coat, this breed brings joy with its cheerful demeanour. Bichon Frises are great for families with children due to their playful nature and sturdy build, making them ideal companions for games and activities.

These friendly dogs adapt well to various family lifestyles, whether active or more relaxed. 

For families worried about allergies, the Bichon Frise’s hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding and dander. Overall, they are a delightful and practical choice for those seeking a loving pet.

Toy Poodle

White and brown-faced Toy Poodle standing on hind legs, climbing up at Pretty Pets Kennel
A curious white and brown-faced Toy Poodle balances on its hind legs, eager to explore — captured at Pretty Pets Kennel Singapore.

The Toy Poodle is a special dog breed. 

They look elegant and are very smart. Their intelligence makes them easy to train, which is great for families who want a pet that can learn quickly. 

Toy Poodles are also known for being gentle and kind. They are patient, which makes them good with kids and a great choice for families.

Another key feature of Toy Poodles is their hypoallergenic coat. This means they are less likely to cause allergies in sensitive people. 

This is important for families with allergy concerns, as they can enjoy having a dog without worrying about reactions.

Toy Poodles have balanced energy levels. They like to go on walks or play in the house with their family, but they are also happy to relax at home. 

Their ability to fit into different situations and their loving nature make them a wonderful addition to any family.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

cavalier king charles spaniel puppy with family affection singapore
A loving companion that quickly becomes part of the family.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is known for its big, expressive eyes and beautiful coat. 

This breed is friendly and easy to get along with, making it a great pet for families with kids. They enjoy both playing and cuddling.

They are a good size for families. They are small enough to handle, but sturdy enough to take on family outings. 

Cavaliers are very loving and often connect deeply with everyone in the family. They bring happiness and warmth to a home, making them a beloved pet for families wanting a kind and elegant dog.

Golden Retriever

happy dog owner cuddling golden retriever puppy singapore
Happy puppy owners start with the right match — find yours today.

Lastly, we come to the Golden Retriever, which is often regarded as the perfect dog for families. 

These wonderful dogs are known for their remarkable loyalty and incredible patience, qualities that make them especially well-suited for homes that have children. 

They tend to mirror the Labrador’s zest for life, eagerly joining in on a variety of family activities and adventures. 

In addition to their friendly disposition, Golden Retrievers are recognised for their intelligence and ability to learn quickly, which can make training them a very rewarding experience. 

Their loving and caring personalities, along with their dependable nature, truly allow them to become cherished members of the family rather than simply pets that live in the home.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right dog breed for your family can provide a deep sense of joy and companionship that lasts a lifetime. 

Different breeds, such as the energetic Beagle and the loving Golden Retriever, each come with their own distinct traits and characteristics that can enhance family life in various ways. 

When selecting a dog, it is important to consider that the ideal breed is not solely determined by its size or physical appearance. 

Instead, it involves finding a dog whose personality and energy level resonate with your family’s lifestyle and specific needs, ensuring a harmonious and fulfilling relationship for years to come.

Unsure which dog breed suits you best? Take our Pretty Pets Breed matcher quiz to find out now!

Posted on Google Google
Serene Tham profile picture
Serene Tham
0 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
It's been 1.5 months since we got our Japanese Spitz puppy and she has been an absolute joy. Much thanks to Yvonne for answering all our questions and being so helpful in sharing information on caring for our little pup. She had a clean bill of health and came home healthy, energetic and quite well adjusted. After purchasing this little one, we still keep in touch with Yvonne and are grateful for the after sales support indeed. :)
Posted on Google Google
Ivan Cheng profile picture
Ivan Cheng
2 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Amazing experience with Pretty Pets Kennel!! Special shoutout to Branden who took the effort and patience to explain to us about the cavapoo. Really love at first sight. Initially wanted to have a second thought but with the professional explanation. It left us with only 1 choice. Guess what? We got a new family member now…☺️🎊🎉
Posted on Google Google
Su Chew profile picture
Su Chew
3 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I got my family’s dream dog, a Papillion-Japanese spitz mix at Pretty Pet’s Kennel! I’m very grateful to Yvonne who introduced me to the designer mix dog. According to Google, it has better tolerance with Singapore’s humid heat vs Pomsky (or pure Japanese spitz). Pretty Pets Kennel designer mixes can be rare and have high visibility, so it’s important to secure them quickly if you really desire them. I’m lucky Yvonne kept me up to date on the sale this litter. ❤️ After I brought him back, Yvonne checked in daily for about 3 days to make sure the puppy was settling well and I was doing all the right things. I’m lucky that he is about 50% toilet trained from the moment I brought him in. Perhaps it’s also part of Pretty Pets structure that he is partly toilet trained. They also ethically check on some viruses before they release the pup.
Posted on Google Google
Dionis Soh profile picture
Dionis Soh
3 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Went down to pretty pets kennel with no intention of getting a puppy there but Yvonne was really assuring and helpful. She also checked in with us on how our Ryo was adapting.
Posted on Google Google
Jermaine Huang profile picture
Jermaine Huang
5 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We had a wonderful experience with Branden, who gave us thoughtful recommendations and helped us find a suitable dog for our family. He was patient with all our questions, took the time to understand our needs, and guided us throughout the entire process. Branden was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful. His excellent service made the whole journey smooth and reassuring. We really appreciate his patience and support, and would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a furry addition to their family!
Posted on Google Google
Shirley Wee profile picture
Shirley Wee
5 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
After 5 years, we came back to get our 2nd puppy, this time round to accompany our little boy. Thanks Branden for the great advice and care for our little puppy 🙏🏻
Posted on Google Google
Rae Lim profile picture
Rae Lim
6 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We’ve had such a lovely experience with them, from the very first time we met Yvonne to even after Pebbles came home. We actually chanced upon this place quite randomly and very much on a whim. Our boy had very recently left us, and at the time we were simply looking around — not even specifically for another puppy. Yvonne was extremely warm and took the time to get to know us. When she found out that we had previously had a Japanese Spitz, she asked if we would like to have a look at the puppies. I don’t think we need to say much more after that. ❤️ Our puppy girl came home with us the following week. What really impressed us was seeing how well the furkids/babies were cared for. We know that, unfortunately, the conditions in these situations are not always ideal, so it was reassuring to see the care and attention given to the puppies. We were even able to interact with our puppy’s birth parents, which was something really special for us. The aftercare has been just as lovely. Yvonne continues to check in with us and follows up to make sure everything is alright, and she has always been there when we have questions or concerns. We really appreciate that the care didn’t simply stop once our puppy went home. There is probably never a “right” time to welcome another furkid after losing one. We certainly weren’t looking to replace our boy, and we know our hearts weren’t really prepared for another puppy so soon. But we are incredibly grateful for that one simple question that led us to meet our little puppy girl. Thank you, Yvonne, for bringing our little puppy girl into our lives. ❤️🐾
Posted on Google Google
Ng Si En profile picture
Ng Si En
8 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Yvonne was (and still is) helpful and patient in answering our queries about our bichon puppy and providing timely advice, even after more than a month of taking our puppy home! She’s healthy and doing well
Posted on Google Google
Rex Chan profile picture
Rex Chan
8 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
​We wanted to send a huge thank you to Yvonne for all help and guidance. Taking the time to patiently explain everything to us made us feel so comfortable and confident in choosing our lovely furkid. Your kindness and expertise mean the world to us—thank you for helping us bring our new little one home!
Posted on Google Google
Xinwen profile picture
Xinwen
15 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Jared has been extremely helpful and caring from the very beginning when we welcomed our Pomeranian, Kai, into our family. Although I have had dogs before, having a puppy is a new experience for our children, and there were many things for us to learn and adjust to together. Jared really went above and beyond. He even created a group chat to keep in touch with us, follow up on Kai’s daily progress, and make sure we were doing well and taking good care of him. Whenever we had questions or were unsure about something, he was always patient, responsive and ready to guide us. What we appreciate most is that his care didn’t stop after we brought Kai home. You can really feel that he genuinely cares about the puppies and wants them to settle happily into their new families. Thank you, Jared, for all your help, patience and care. You made welcoming Kai into our family such a smooth and reassuring experience. 🩵🐶 Highly recommended! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Verified by Trustindex
Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more

FIND THE PERFECT PUPPY FOR YOUR FAMILY

Every family is different — and so is every breed.

Find a puppy that fits your home, lifestyle and personality with our Breed Matcher Quiz, or meet the puppies currently available at Pretty Pets.