Dog outside

Thinking of adding a new furry friend to the family? There are many things to consider when searching for the perfect pup for you and your children. Just like humans, our furry friends come in a variety of personalities. Some are high energy and require ample exercise, while others may be more low-key and prefer lounging due to their nature or age.

So, which breed is perfect for your family? Colleen Demling-Riley, Dogtopia’s dog behaviorist, tells Care.com to try matching your selection with traits that are best suited for your family and lifestyle, such as size, age, activity level, and grooming needs. The best dog breeds for kids depend on a variety of factors but one main thing you should always consider is whether the pup is comfortable around the unpredictability of children and has a patient and loving reputation.

For more tips on finding the right pup for your family, check out Care.com’s list of 8 kid-friendly dog breeds.