Not Family Friendly: Dog Breeds That Aren’t The Best With Kids

Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamutes were made for the harshest of harsh conditions. They are bred for isolated, as well as freezing cold environments. Survival skills often kick in with this breed, as they are known to attack small animals, as well as children. The Malamute is another breed difficult to train, even worse if they sense a weak owner. If anyone in your family suffers from asthma, you’ll also want to stay away from this breed as they shed a whole lot.

Alaskan Malamute

Rottweiler

The Rottweiler breed is known for their strength and for their large size. They were originally bred for their prowess, often used to herd livestock and pull small carts. Rottweilers can act violently around strangers due to their loyalty and courageous nature. This breed is often used as police dogs and guard dogs. They do love to play, but often mistake roughing around for something real.

Rottweiler

Bullmastiff

Combine the fact that bullmastiffs aren’t very aware of their large size, and that they’re more aggressive than other breeds, it makes sense why parents with young kids are worried. But, like all dogs, with proper training, this breed can be your family’s best friend. They show a heightened loyalty to their owners, often viewing them as leader of the pack, so make sure to avoid showing signs of weakness around your bullmastiff.

Bullmastiff

Saint Bernard

The 90’s film Beethoven is responsible for making the Saint Bernard breed infamous. Although they can be trained, their playful nature makes it all the more difficult. Saint Bernards are very sweet with children, but their enormous size makes it almost impossible for them not to knock over everything and anyone in their path. They are great family dogs, but their stature makes them very difficult for people with young kids.

Saint Bernard

Weimaraner

Weimaraners are another breed who may not be the best pick if you have small kids, but for other reasons. Their excitable nature, and elevated energy levels cause them to unintentionally knock little ones over. Bred as a hunting dog, they bore easily, and need constant activity and love from owners. Meeting your weimaraner’s needs, along with caring for young kids will leave your hands extremely full.

Weimaraner

Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd is another breed who need lots of exercise. Bred as watchdogs and disaster rescue dogs, these pups need daily walks and runs or behavioral problems have the ability to develop. With little kids to care for, the needs of this breed may be too much for parents with multiple tots to run after. Australian Shepherds are also often uneasy when meeting new people, and with play-dates a weekly ordeal, this may be less than ideal.

Australian Shepherd

Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are another breed known for their inexhaustible energy. Their strong personality and desire for affection will have them competing with kids for attention. If you want a guard dog to protect your brood, the Siberian Husky is not the breed for you. Since they were originally bred as sled dogs, they have zero interest in guarding your home. But, with proper training and a whole lot of patience, this breed may be the perfect family dog for you and yours.

Siberian Husky

Affenpinscher

Affenpinschers are known for their playful and equally amusing nature. This breed is the jokester of dog breeds, known to be very mischievous and inquisitive. Since they are quite small, children often think of them as stuffed animals, and thus mishandle them. Although they do well at defending themselves against rough play, they may act out if they feel uncomfortable. Just look at that face, we don’t blame your little ones for mistaking them as toys!

Affenpinscher

Chow Chow

As you’d probably expect, children 99.9% of the time mistake Chow Chows as stuffed animals; just look at all of that fluffiness! Although we can’t deny their cuteness, they are quite large, the possibility of knocking over little ones very likely. Chows are also very attached to their owners, and can be very jealous when others interact with their loved ones. Don’t be surprised if they compete with your children for love and affection.

Chow Chow

Afghan Hound

Afghan Hounds are very strong-willed dogs who require a strong leader in their lives. This breed was originally bred as guard dogs and hunting dogs. It is very important to be gentle, calm and collected when interacting with Afghans…not the easiest for little ones. Their large size also makes them a hazard for kids.

Afghan Hound

The English Toy Spaniel

Although English Toy Spaniels are small and adorable, they are not the best around kids. They often perceive kid’s rough play as threatening, and can act out if they feel they are being mistreated. Strong leadership is crucial since they can become very dominant in the household, leading to aggressive behavior towards both children and adults. As with every breed out there, proper training can combat all of these issues.

The English Toy Spaniel

Greyhound

Thanks to their energy levels and incredible speed, this breed has been bred for racing. They require constant running, which can be hard for parents with little ones to chase after. They have a tendency to attack small animals, as may be the case with small kids. They also don’t tolerate kids cuddling or hovering and they hate rough play.

Greyhound

French Bulldog

Although the French Bulldog is very playful and energetic, they require a lot of affection from owners, taking time away from the needs of small kids. Without attention and obedience classes, these little pups will feel ignored and unappreciated, leading to mischief and even aggression. For those with a French Bulldog, or those thinking of adopting one, make sure your children show authority over the dog…this is crucial.

French Bulldog

Japanese Chin

These adorable dogs were originally bred as companion dogs for Royals, so they understandably demand affection from owners. Be sure not to pamper your Chin too much, as they will feel as if they are the master. They are also known to be quite jealous little guys.

Japanese Chin

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus become overexcited and scared very easily. When children play rough or sneak up behind them, they can turn mean and bite. Shih Tzus also develop separation anxiety when left alone for too long, so it’s best if their owners are retired or work from home.

Shih Tzu

Pekingese

Although their looks may give you a different impression, Pekingese are actually very courageous and independent dogs. Children often cuddle and want to constantly hold and pet these dogs, but Pekingese desire anything but this. If you do decide a Pekingese is the right fit, just be sure your children are authoritative over the dog and that they are aware of the dog’s distinct nature.

Pekingese

Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier is one of the most energetic dog breeds out there. Jack Russells also despise rough play, so if your child pokes and pinches them, they’ll defend themselves by biting. They are also very protective over their space, so try to teach your kids to learn to respect their spots.

Jack Russell Terrier

Chinese Shar Pei

Although the extra skin and folds on the Shar Pei makes them look all the more adorable, they cause a lot of issues. You see, this breed suffers from numerous health issues, their skin folds often contracting pathogens. Children can often become sick when the dog gets sick, a recipe for disaster for parents with kids. They are also aggressive dogs, and therefore difficult to train.

Chinese Shar Pei

Dachshund Standard Smooth

The Dachshund was originally bred to hunt small animals, so it makes sense they don’t get along with small pets such as kittens and hamsters. Many of them also suffer from small dog syndrome, making up for their size with attitude. They are only good around children if rough play is not involved, as they hate it. Also be careful to not manhandle them as they can be aggressive if they feel they are being wrongly handled.

Dachshund Standard Smooth

Dalmatian

Dalmatians are another breed who were originally bred as guard dogs and for hunting small rodents. Dalmatians are also reserved towards other dogs and require constant love and socialization from their owners. These adorable spotted friends are known to bite and scratch if they don’t receive the necessary attention. If you have older kids, this may be the dog for you, as they have a lot of energy and need constant exercise.

Dalmatian

Neapolitan Mastiff

Although the Neapolitan Mastiff is quite huge, they are actually known to be very gentle. While older kids say this breed is very affectionate, parents find that they often unintentionally sit, step on and knock over little ones…it’s say to say they are a bit clumsy! They are also big droolers…get the Swiffer Wet Jet ready!

Neapolitan Mastiff

Skye Terrier

Skye Terriers are not only self-assured and fearless, they are also aggressive against other dogs. Skyes require a lot of love and affection, and will act out if not given it by barking, digging and chewing. They also enjoy hunting small animals, so this breed may not be the best choice for parents with young kids.

Skye Terrier

Akita

Akitas were bred in Japan as guard dogs, their aggressive nature and unfriendliness towards strangers make them good at their job. The issue is that they often view kids as intruders, and your children’s friends? Forget about it. Since the Akita is a very distinct breed with likes and dislikes, little ones need to be aware of them.

Akita

Pit Bull

As many of you are probably aware, pit bulls can be a very dangerous breed of dog, but we are of course not talking about every single one. For generations, this breed has been bred for dogfighting, giving them a bad rep. This breed is known to have a temper, and when they attack, they often don’t let go. Studies show that Pit Bulls are responsible for 30% of fatal dog bites. Of course loving and family-friendly Pit Bulls exist, but families with kids may want to be safe rather than sorry.

Pit Bull

Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinschers are often used in the military for their aggressive behavior. During the 1970’s this breed was extremely popular, but an increase in dog bites was also noted. There are also horror stories of Dobermans attacking their owners for no reason. Although these instances have decreased over the years, when a Doberman turns on a person, things can quickly get ugly. Insurance companies are very wary of them to this day.

Doberman Pinscher

German Shepherd

German Shepherds are not only loyal, but they are also obedient and smart. Their high intelligence and aggressive side are the reason they’re used in law enforcement. Insurance companies know about the aggression, and think twice about families who own this breed. Although there is a possibility they can be great family dogs, they are quite large, powerful animals, who may mistakenly attack the wrong person.

German Shepherd

Great Dane

Great Danes are very regal looking, and they’re also one of the tallest dog breeds out there! Their size is what makes them dangerous, often overpowering small animals and small children. Although an attack is rare, at over 100 pounds, when it happens they are difficult to control. Insurance companies aren’t very fond of them for all of these reasons.

Great Dane

Wolfdog

Although this breed is both majestic and beautiful, Wofldogs are half wolf, and therefore wild animals. This breed is very dangerous to have as a pet because even if they are trained, their wild instincts are always lingering. Insurance companies are opposed to people keeping them as pets and they have the stories and data to back up their claims.

Wolfdog

Staffordshire Terrier

The Staffordshire Terrier is very visually similar to that of a Pit Bull. Though they may look like Pit Bulls, this breed is actually known to be very friendly to humans, but proper training is of course crucial. But, similarly to Pit Bulls, they have been bred as fighting dogs over the years, making them a risky pet.

Staffordshire Terrier

Japanese Tosa

This rare breed is banned in a dozen different countries from being owned as pets. They were originally bred in Japan as fighting dogs. Interestingly enough, they are known to show aggression toward both humans and other animals. They are both bold and fearless, their large size making them difficult to control once an attack begins.

Japanese Tosa

Dogo Argentino

The Dogo Argentino was originally bred in Argentina to help humans hunt. They have also been used to guide the blind and help law enforcement. This dog breed is banned in 6 countries thanks to its aggressive side. Even trained Dogo Argentinos have been known to attack without warning, making insurance companies wary of them.

Dogo Argentino

Tosa Inu

Originating from Japan, the Tosa Inu was initially bred to be a Japanese fighting dog. So, if you’re searching your next family pet, the Tosa is still considered a rare and exotic breed. Still, it would be a massive dog for a family, weighing between 130 to 200 lbs and reaching heights of 24.5 to 32 inches. What’s more, the Tosa is also considered dangerous and legally restricted in certain countries. So with that it mind, this aggressive breed might not be the most friendly companion for your play dates.

Tosa Inu

American Bandogge

This fierce looking pup is also incredibly strong. The American Bandogge is a cross breed between a Neapolitan Mastiff and an American Pit Bull Terrier. Interestingly, despite its muscular look, the Bandogge was not originally bred for fighting. Nevertheless, some have used it as fighting dog. So if you’re looking for a next family-friendly pet, this one might be a little fierce for the playground, especially with those spikes.

American Bandogge

Cane Corso

Don’t be fooled by those big brown, innocent puppy dog eyes. The Cane Corso is also known as a Mastiff and is another large, muscular Italian breed. The pup can weigh anywhere between 99 to 150 pounds and is a descendant of the Canis Pugnax, which was a Roman fighting dog. So in our experience, Roman fighting dogs might just be a little unpredictable, with a side of danger, so not the most ideal guest for a family celebration.

Cane Corso

Bull Terriers

Renowned for their egg or shark shaped heads and strong muscular appearance, Bull Terriers actually rank first place in pound-for-pound lean muscle tissue. While this is an impressive feat, and they are a little softer than other terriers so not particularly aggressive, they are known to have a strong “prey drive”. This means they can be a little aggressive, independent and stubborn around smaller animals. With the right training, they can be more fun and spirited though. Still, you might have to be careful around smaller kiddies.

Bull Terrier

Boer Boel

The Boer Boel has a large, stately appearance and is actually a variation of the South African mastiff dog breed. These powerful pups were originally bred to be guard dogs in South Africa and were often used as the first line of defense against predators, like lions. Boer Boel’s were also invaluable in tracking and holding down game. The intelligent breed is fiercely loyal and protective for families, but is also known as a gladiator. So unless you’re looking for a family guard dog, you might want to opt for a more fluffy family pet.

Boer Boel

Gull Dong

The Gull Dong was originally bred as a fighting dog and is a cross between the Gull Tarrier and the Bully Kutta. The Gull is also known as a Pakistani Bull Dog and is independent, strong, muscular and powerful. So, even though this one might look smiley and friendly, they can be a little fiery and difficult to control. So if you’re not one for taking risks around your family, you might want to steer clear of a fighting dog.

Gull Dong

Basenji

The Basenji originates from Central Africa and is a classic breed of hunting dog. Classified as a sight hound, this dog looks majorly alert to us. It also is curious and affectionate, but would be a little reserved around strangers in the playground. In case you were thinking of domesticating it for the home, the Basenji is the 2nd least trainable of all breed types, so you might have your work cut out for you!

Basenji

American Bulldog

Another muscular and heavy dog on the list is the American Bull Dog. The dog was traditionally bred as a working farm utility dog to catch and hold wild boar and cattle, kill vermin, and guard the property. So while they might look pleasant and friendly, especially this one with it’s side-tongue, they are still bull dogs. So if you’re planning to go on a family walk with your little ones, you might have to deal with a fiery, independent, confident and stubborn companion.

American Bulldog

Fila Brasileiro

The Fila Brasileiro is another large, powerful breed with a pretty savage and scary appearance. Originating from Brazil, the breed is known for it’s great tracking abilities. Still due to it’s size, and aggressive and impetuous temperament, it has been banned in many countries around the world. So if you don’t want to scare your kids, or anyone on the school run, you might want to give this breed a miss.

Fila Brasileiro

Perro de Presa Canario

The Perro de Presa Canario is a large Spanish dog that was traditionally bred to work with livestock. The breed is also known as a “Canarian catch dog”, and if their appearance is anything to go by, it seems unsurprising that they might be a little aggressive toward other dogs and a little suspicious of strangers. They can be a little more domesticated if they are subjected to early socialization and obedience training, but it still seems like risky choice for a family pet.

Perro De Presa Canario

Boxer

Originating from Germany, Boxers are large breed that offers a cross between an Old English Bull Dog and a Bullenbeisser, and can grow to between 50 to 70 lbs. Boxers are not particularly aggressive, and are known for their bright, playful and energetic personalities, so are a little more family-friendly than some other dogs on the list. However they do still have a headstrong side and if provoked can tend to go on the offensive. So, you would have to keep this in mind if you leave them off the leash.

Boxer

Wolf Hybrid

This furtive-looking creature is actually a Wolf Hybrid, which is a cross between a grey wolf and a dog. Although this breed is pretty awesome and fluffy to watch from afar, the Wolf Hybrid offers s combination of genetic traits. So it is less predictable than other dogs or wolves and you might not want to leave your baby alone with it, or run into it in a dark alley.

Wolf Hybrid

Huskies

Huskies are one of the coolest breeds around. Traditionally used for sledding, adventure treking or racing in the Northern regions or through the snow, they are great for an outdoors lifestyle. They have also become more popular as family pet, and can be fiercely loyal, gentle, energetic, soft to cuddle and graceful to walk around with. However, you would have to be aware that Huskies still have a predatory instinct so can be a little more aggressive to smaller animals and destructive if they are bored.

Huskies

Caucasian Ovcharka

The Caucasian Ovcharka was traditionally bred to protect livestock, and is also known as the Caucasian Shepherd. The breed has a reputation for being assertive, strong-willed and courageous, so might make a loyal family companion. However they need to be properly socialized and trained, as they still have ferocious and unmanageable tendencies and a powerful urge to defend.

Caucasian Ovcharka

Borzoi

Borzoi dogs look a lot like large, tender, graceful poodles. These friendly white giants can are properly trained and socialized, and can shine as great family companions. However they can still be very stubborn at times, so you might have to be patient. They are also known for rough play because they probably don’t realize their own strength, so you might have to watch out when they’re around smaller kiddies.

Borzoi