- One of the Boxers’ most distinctive qualities is its love for children. They are a people oriented breed and prefer to have their pack close by. Energetic and affectionate, the Boxer needs to have plenty of exercise and playful interaction.
2. Mastiff, This good natured giant bonds instantly with its family and loves to be around his people. Gentle with children, this breed makes an ideal family pet. When he feels his pack is threatened, a Mastiff will most likely knock an intruder to the ground and lay on them until assistance arrives.
3. Old English Sheepdog, This working dog is considered affectionate and loving, although there may be an instinct to herd its family; this might not be so bad if the kiddos are running late for school. The AKC described this breed as athletic filled with clownish energy.
4. Labrador Retriever, Another popular breed is the Labrador Retriever. This eager to please breed is bouncy and enjoys playing with her pack members. She loves to swim and frolic in the water or on the land. Parents would benefit from a Labrador’s athletic tendencies; she would wear the children out faster.
5. Dogue de Bordeaux, If an owner can get past the drooling 
nature of this lovable breed, the Dogue de Bordeaux sports a calm temperament, is loyal to its pack and affectionate to a fault. Gentle with the children, this French Mastiff will also be protective of the family it loves.
6. Golden Retriever, Active, energetic and friendly these are just a few words to describe one of the most popular breeds in the United States. Goldens are intelligent, eager to please and love to play and run with children. The “Buddy” franchise movies aid in keeping the Golden Retriever a popular choice among families.
7. American Staffordshire Terrier, Extremely loyal, this breed loves nothing more than to be part of a family.
At the turn of the 20th century, the Staffordshire Terrier was the number one family dog in the country and was the poster dog for WWI. Pete from the “Little Rascals” short movies was an Am Staff.
8. Newfoundland, Don’t let their size be intimidating, these gentle
giants are wonderful family dogs. Referred to as a workhorse, this dog would love nothing more than to pull around the kiddos in a sled on the snow. Nana from the story of Peter Pan was a Newfie.
9. Mutts, Don’t forget about mixed breeds! Make it a family event to go to a shelter and pick a loving, loyal family mutt! Just remember that in general, mid to large size mixed breed are a much better fit for families with children.
10. Beagle, bout 15 inches tall and around 22 pounds, they are great little apartment dogs, but they do need lots of exercise, so plan to take them on a brisk daily walk to make sure they live out their full 12 to 15 years of life. Always keep them on a lead or in the confines of a well-fenced yard, though. They really do follow their noses and may wander off on adventures.
While your beagle most likely won’t have a bird named Woodstock as his best friend, you can, by all means, name him (or her) Snoopy.