While dogs make wonderful companions, not all breeds are suitable for households with children. Some dogs have characteristics — such as size, temperament or particular needs — that can make them challenging in family settings with young children. While many of these breeds can flourish with the right training and care, they would need to be given special attention to ensure safe interactions. Here’s a closer look at 12 dog breeds that are not the best choice for homes with children
1. Chow Chow
Few breeds are as iconic as Chow Chows. Independent and aloof dogs known for their lion-like mane and blue-black tongue. Their instincts are to be protective, which may make them cautious of strangers, including kids. Due to this breed’s stubborn nature, its behavior can be unpredictable, which means it needs to be supervised at all times around kids. Moreover, their thick fur requires frequent grooming to prevent matting and maintain their iconic appearance.
2. Dalmatian
Dalmatians are active, intelligent dogs that need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Their high energy levels may overwhelm children and their stubbornness may lead to unmanageable behavior without adequate training. Protective tendencies can also clash with kids’ playful nature, and they are better suited for active families who understand their needs.
3. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are very loyal and protective, but their sheer size and strength can intimidate or accidentally harm a small child. Early socialization and training are critical to ensure they understand boundaries and behave appropriately around children. Their protective instincts can result in guarding behaviors that aren’t ideal in child-friendly environments.
4. Akita
Akitas are dignified, courageous dogs known for their aloofness and intolerance of unpredictable behavior. They need confident owners who can establish leadership through consistent training. Their independent personalities and protective instincts mean they may not enjoy the exuberant energy of younger children, so supervision is key.
5. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are large, active sled dogs that require significant exercise and mental stimulation. Their size alone can be intimidating to small children, and their high prey drive might pose challenges in households with other pets or unpredictable movements of children. Each shedding needs regular grooming because they have dense fur.
6. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Huskies are absolutely gorgeous dogs that are extremely active and thrive in more lively environments. Being an independent breed, they are prone to stubbornness, requiring consistent training and supervision around children. Huskies are great escape artists, and also have a high prey drive, which means they’re better suited for a family that can accommodate their exercise requirements.
7. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are gentle giants with a calm and loving demeanor but pose risks due to their sheer size. Accidental knocks or falls during playtime can occur around small children. They require space to move freely and consistent grooming to control shedding, and they should be trained early so they can remain manageable as they mature.
8. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers are loyal, intelligent dogs, but they can have a strong protective instinct that may become overwhelming for children or lead to guarding behavior with strangers or other children. They need firm training and plenty of regular mental stimulation to prevent boredom, and they also need to be supervised with small children or smaller animals in the house.
9. Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs are strong, yet laid-back canines who have a natural instinct to protect their family and home, which can be intimidating for children. Their size creates challenges within households that have small kids who may struggle to interact safely with large dogs. Early socialization is essential to get your Bullmastiff used to other dogs and people while still keeping their sweet-natured temperament.
10. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas may be tiny, but they tend to have larger-than-life personalities that can sometimes manifest as a feisty temperament. They are fragile, and can be easily injured by rough play from children. Chihuahuas tend to form strong bonds with one person, sometimes becoming possessive, Chihuahuas are better for families with older children who handle them well gently.
11. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a powerful and protective dog that thrives under experienced ownership. They could intimidate children due to their size and strength, and their guarding instincts may cause them to have overprotective behavior in family settings. This breed needs early training and socialization to adapt well in homes with children.
12. Pit Bull
Pit Bulls are muscular and affectionate, and they actually make very loving pets. These dogs are often misunderstood due to their reputation for aggression when improperly trained or socialized. However, their strength — which can be further exacerbated by improper training — can leave them susceptible to dangerous behaviors at family gatherings, especially at playtime and around other family pets. This breed benefits greatly from early socialization for successful integration into family life.
By understanding the specific needs and temperaments of these breeds, families can make informed decisions about which dog will best fit into their home environment while ensuring safety for all members—most importantly, children!
