Are some dogs safer with children? UK expert insights

There is ongoing debate in the UK about whether some dog breeds are inherently dangerous or safer with children. Most experts agree no breed is intrinsically harmful; rather, risks arise from how dogs are bred, trained, and managed.

The Dangerous Dogs Act targets certain breeds, yet no solid evidence proves any breed is more likely to be dangerous. Instead, factors like physical strength and behaviour influence potential risks for children.

Which dogs pose risks to children?

Risk factors apply to any dog regardless of breed. Key traits increasing danger include:

• Untrained or unruly behaviour
• Poor supervision and management
• Dominance or "alpha" behaviour over people
• History of mistreatment or neglect
• Being provoked or frightened
• Trapped without retreat options around children

Recognising these traits helps prevent unsafe scenarios around kids.

Traits of dogs generally safer with children

A safer dog exhibits a blend of the following:

• Good training and obedience
• Responsive to commands and supervised
• Recognises human leadership and roles
• Positive social experiences and kind upbringing
• Calm, confident, without dominance
• Used to children’s varying behaviours
• Given personal space and respected boundaries

Even dogs with difficult backgrounds can improve with rehabilitation and training.

Large dogs and children: What you should know

Big breeds, such as the Newfoundland, are not inherently more aggressive. However, their size means accidental injuries (like knocking over a child during play) are possible. Owners must supervise and train large dogs for gentle interactions.

Small dogs and child safety

Small breeds like the Chihuahua may cause less physical harm due to size but can still display aggression or bite. Sometimes these dogs receive less training because owners underestimate their potential risk. Proper socialisation and respect remain essential regardless of size.

Which breeds are often recommended for families?

In 2025, UK vets and animal welfare groups typically recommend breeds known for their friendly, tolerant temperaments, good with children when well-trained:

• Labrador Retriever – playful, affectionate, intelligent, requiring exercise and engagement
• Golden Retriever – gentle and patient companions
• Beagle – friendly and tolerant, suited for active homes
• Cockapoo – intelligent, social, low-shedding for allergy sufferers
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – small, affectionate, and gentle with children

Others like Bernese Mountain Dogs, Poodles, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Boxers, and German Shepherds can also be great family pets when raised responsibly and trained well. Some require experienced owners due to their size or energy levels.

How to promote safety around dogs and children

The best safety approach focuses on:

• Careful training and positive socialisation from an early age
• Supervised, respectful child-dog interactions
• Teaching children how to behave appropriately with pets
• Recognising each dog’s individual temperament rather than judging solely by breed
• Responsible ownership and ongoing management

These measures help create safer, happier environments for dogs and children alike.

Frequently Asked Question: Are some types of dogs safer with children than others?

Quick Answer: No dog breed is guaranteed safe or unsafe around children. Safety depends on individual dog's temperament, training, supervision, and interaction management.

UK experts emphasise that although certain breeds like Labradors and Golden Retrievers are popular for families due to their friendly nature, any dog can bite or react unexpectedly if stressed or provoked. Responsible ownership, including training and supervision, is the key to safer relationships between children and dogs.

How to find a reputable breeder or puppy for your family

When choosing a family dog, it’s vital to find reputable breeders who prioritise health, temperament, and ethical practices. Look for breeders registered with the Kennel Club, who provide proper health screening and socialisation for puppies.

Adopting from responsible rescue organisations is also an excellent choice. They often assess dogs’ behaviour and suitability for family life, helping you find a safe companion.

For example, breeds mentioned in this article can often be found through dependable breeders or rescue centres, like those listed on the Labrador Retriever puppies and golden retriever puppies pages.

Summary and next steps

There is no definitive "safe" dog breed guaranteed to be perfect with children. Instead, the focus should be on well-trained, supervised dogs with calm, friendly temperaments. Responsible dog ownership and educating children about dog behaviour are paramount for safety.

Choosing breeds commonly considered good with children, such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Beagles, Cockapoos, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, is a good starting point but never substitute for careful training and supervision.

For families seeking a new dog, investing time in proper socialisation and seeking reputable breeders or rescue organisations helps ensure a positive experience for everyone.

Remember, with the right preparation, all dogs can become safe and loving companions for children.