Top 10 Family-Friendly Dog Breeds in Australia
Top 10 Family-Friendly Dog Breeds in Australia: The Best Dogs for Kids and Families
Choosing the right dog for your family is an exciting decision — but it’s also one that needs careful thought.
Whether you have toddlers, school-aged kids, or teenagers, the breed you choose can make a big difference in your household’s happiness and harmony. Some dogs thrive in a bustling family home, while others prefer a quieter lifestyle.
To help you decide, we’ve rounded up the Top 10 Family-Friendly Dog Breeds in Australia. These breeds are known for their gentle temperament, adaptability, and ability to bond deeply with adults and children alike.
1. Labrador Retriever – The Classic Australian Family Dog
Size: Large (25–36 kg)
Coat: Short, water-resistant coat
Temperament: Gentle, loyal, friendly
Best For: Active families with a backyard
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular family dog breeds in Australia — and for good reason. Labs are intelligent, affectionate, and patient with children. Their gentle nature makes them ideal companions for young kids, while their playful energy suits older children who love to run and play.
Labs need daily exercise, so they’re best for families who can commit to walks, games of fetch, and maybe even a swim.
They are also quick learners, making them easy to train.
2. Golden Retriever – Friendly and Affectionate
Size: Large (25–34 kg)
Coat: Medium to long, needs regular brushing
Temperament: Loving, intelligent, eager to please
Best For: Families with time for grooming and outdoor activities
Golden Retrievers are known as the ultimate “people dogs.” They’re affectionate, patient, and excellent with children. Like Labradors, Goldens are intelligent and love to be part of the family’s daily activities.
Their calm temperament makes them trustworthy around kids, but they do need regular brushing to keep their beautiful coat in good condition.
3. Cavoodle (Cavapoo) – The Cute and Cuddly Favourite
Size: Small to medium (5–12 kg)
Coat: Soft, wavy, low-shedding
Temperament: Playful, affectionate, adaptable
Best For: Families in apartments or houses
The Cavoodle, a cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle, is one of the most popular low-shedding family dogs in Australia. Their small-to-medium size makes them great for both houses and apartments, and their loving personality ensures they get along with kids and other pets.
Cavoodles are intelligent and trainable, and they don’t require as much exercise as larger breeds — though they still love a daily walk and playtime.
4. Beagle – The Playful Adventurer
Size: Medium (9–11 kg)
Coat: Short, low-maintenance
Temperament: Curious, friendly, active
Best For: Families with active kids who enjoy outdoor play
Beagles are small to medium-sized dogs with a huge personality. Known for their friendliness and curiosity, they make excellent companions for children. Their sturdy build means they can handle rough-and-tumble play, but their high energy levels mean they need daily walks and games to stay happy.
Because they’re scent hounds, Beagles can be easily distracted by interesting smells — so a secure yard is a must.
5. Border Collie – The Energetic Genius
Size: Medium (14–20 kg)
Coat: Medium-length double coat
Temperament: Intelligent, energetic, loyal
Best For: Families who enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle
Often called the most intelligent dog breed, Border Collies are quick learners and thrive in active households. They’re perfect for families who love hiking, running, or playing sports like frisbee.
However, they need plenty of mental and physical stimulation, so they suit families who can dedicate time to training and activities. In the right home, a Border Collie can be one of the most rewarding dogs for active families.
6. Poodle – Smart and Low-Shedding
Size: Toy, Miniature, or Standard (4–32 kg)
Coat: Curly, hypoallergenic
Temperament: Intelligent, alert, affectionate
Best For: Families with allergy concerns
Poodles are highly intelligent and come in three sizes, making them a versatile choice for families. Their non-shedding coat makes them a popular option for households with allergy concerns.
They’re playful, easy to train, and love being part of family activities. However, their coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting.
7. Staffordshire Bull Terrier – Loyal and Loving
Size: Medium (11–17 kg)
Coat: Short and easy to maintain
Temperament: Brave, affectionate, loyal
Best For: Families wanting a devoted companion
The Staffy has a reputation for being a “nanny dog” due to their affectionate nature with children. They are muscular, medium-sized dogs who form strong bonds with their families.
Staffies are people-oriented and thrive when included in family life. They need daily exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy.
8. Australian Shepherd – Energetic and Versatile
Size: Medium to large (18–29 kg)
Coat: Medium-length, weather-resistant
Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, loyal
Best For: Families who enjoy outdoor adventures
Despite the name, the Australian Shepherd originated in the United States, but it has become a popular choice among active Australian families.
These dogs excel in agility, obedience, and other canine sports, making them great for families who want a dog that can join in on adventures. They are intelligent and eager to please but need plenty of exercise.
9. Boxer – Playful and Protective
Size: Large (25–32 kg)
Coat: Short, low-maintenance
Temperament: Energetic, affectionate, protective
Best For: Families wanting a fun-loving, loyal dog
Boxers are known for their playful energy and boundless enthusiasm. They’re affectionate with kids, protective of their families, and always ready for a game.
Their short coat is easy to maintain, but they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them from becoming bored.
10. Shih Tzu – The Gentle Companion
Size: Small (4–7 kg)
Coat: Long, requires regular grooming
Temperament: Affectionate, calm, adaptable
Best For: Families in apartments or smaller homes
The Shih Tzu is a small dog with a big heart. They’re gentle, affectionate, and love to be near their family. Their small size makes them suitable for apartment living, and they generally get along well with children.
They don’t need excessive exercise, but regular grooming is essential to keep their coat looking beautiful.
Tips for Choosing the Right Family Dog
When deciding on a breed, consider:
- Energy Levels: Match the dog’s activity needs to your lifestyle.
- Size: Larger dogs may need more space; smaller dogs may be easier in apartments.
- Temperament: Choose a breed known for being good with children.
- Coat Maintenance: Long-haired breeds need more grooming; short-haired are lower maintenance.
- Training Needs: Some breeds are easier to train than others.
Final Thoughts
The best family-friendly dog breed in Australia will depend on your family’s lifestyle, home environment, and preferences.
Whether you choose a loyal Labrador, a cuddly Cavoodle, or an energetic Border Collie, the most important factor is the love and care you give your new furry family member.
With the right match, you’ll have a companion who brings joy, laughter, and unconditional love for years to come.
