Best Dogs For Boys

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Looking for the best dogs for boys? You've come to the right place! Dogs are a great addition to any home and have many benefits, especially for young boys.

Although any type of dog is ideal for both boys and girls, a few breeds, such as golden retrievers, Rottweiler, Newfoundlands, poodles, Great Danes, and beagles, with higher energy levels that are usually better suited for boys. And it's not because dogs are known to be "man's best friend."

Bringing a new furry family member home is always an exciting and happy occasion, especially for young boys. Dogs not only provide unconditional love, but they can also teach responsibility and teamwork. However, before you choose the breed you want, you should consider your lifestyle, age, and living conditions. Some breeds thrive outdoors or in large open spaces, while others are timid and enjoy a sedentary lifestyle. While most dogs can be trained well, you might have to ensure that your boys and dogs know how to engage with each other.

When you raise a dog in a family with boys, their relationship has the potential to blossom into something truly wonderful. However, if you're a parent, choosing the proper dog for your boy can be a challenge. This is why, as expert breeders, we've compiled a list of the 20best dogs for boys, based on research, facts, and, well, of course, logic.

In this article

‍Best Dogs for Boys

Little dogs can be a bad choice because they are often treated like toys by young boys, resulting in injury. On the other hand, you can consider big dogs, but not all big dogs are the most viable options for boys. However, size can often be irrelevant in some cases. The key to owning a dog that everyone loves is to choose the correct one.

So, it doesn't really matter if the dog is small or large; it's their disposition that matters. The plain truth is that some dog breeds are more suited to boys than others. Almost any dog can get along well with boys, in theory. Breed type, size, age, and training are all factors that can influence your chances of choosing a wonderful dog for a boy.

Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise

This small cotton ball of a dog enjoys playing and is usually not overly excited. It's sweet, cute, and full of the kind of enthusiasm that a boy exudes. It's also a little dog that won't scare or overwhelm younger boys. However, keep in mind that if a boy is being very boisterous or rough, it may emit a warning snap to let them know there is a limit to how much it can handle.

Beagle

Beagle
Beagle

Do you have a young boy who never seems to run out of energy? Well, see how they do when paired with a beagle. These intelligent, friendly dogs require a lot of activity and have been known to wander off on adventures if you don't keep a close eye on them, but they get along surprisingly well with active children or adults. So, they can be the perfect companion for boys. These canines are friendly, intelligent, and not very large, making them ideal for boys.

Beagles enjoy playing and have the instincts to protect the people they love. It could potentially be one of the best security dogs for your family. Even though some are a little high-strung, they usually respond well to training. They are a gregarious breed that loves being in the company of others, especially children and boys.

Boxer

Boxer
Boxer

Boxers are noted for being playful and full of energy, just like young boys. It's a rambunctious canine who can go toe-to-toe with boys who seem to have endless energy and passion for the outdoors and adventures. It can be clumsy at times and accidentally bump or knock over a small child or perhaps over the furniture around the house, so you might have to keep an eye on it before it's housetrained.

Boxers are, without a doubt, energetic. They're also playful, affectionate, pack-oriented, and have a soft spot for those they love. Just make sure they get plenty of exercise, as they are prone to barking, digging, and becoming agitated when they have too much energy.

Poodle

Poodle
Poodle

Poodles are intelligent and have a wonderful temperament. The high activity level of a poodle is often comparable to that of a young boy. Poodles are affectionate, cuddly, gentle, and tolerant creatures. Poodles come in different sizes, small, mini, or regular, so you have the option to select which one you want based on your preference. For families with young boys, the larger, standard poodle is definitely the best choice; it is the sturdiest and can handle more roughhousing than the smaller types.

Bulldog

Bulldog
Bulldog

Bulldogs are calm, kind, and friendly with typically anyone they meet. Young boys love interacting with them since they are small yet tough enough to withstand some rough play. They also make excellent guard dogs for small children, guarding them against unforeseen dangers. Bulldogs, like pugs and boxers, are brachycephalic breeds that should be kept in check when it comes to excessive activity, particularly on hot days. After a short romp or round of play, this breed will most likely plop down for a snooze fest. These dogs are friendly and will put up with a little roughhousing with the boys.

Great Danes

Great Danes
Great Danes

This lovely breed is recognized for its friendly demeanor and eagerness to please. In appearance, the Great Dane is gentle, robust, huge, and loyal. Great Danes are powerful dogs that originated in Germany and are also known as the German mastiff and Deutsche Dodge. They are well-built and athletic, but their demeanor is quiet and reserved. Due to their massive stature and serious faces, Great Danes might appear menacing at first glance.

However, anyone who has spent significant time around these amazing creatures quickly discovers that they are more amusing than frightening. Despite their amusing personalities, these incredible canines possess a hidden store of knowledge and bravery that extends back to their hunting origins. The one thing to keep in mind is that, while this breed is both lively and loving, it does not respond well to teasing, so boys will need to be trained just as much as this dog.

Collie

Collie
Collie

Do you know what a collie is? Now, we're not promising that your collie will save anyone trapped in a well, but that should give you a good idea of what to expect. They are kind, predictable, and easy to teach, and protective of their pack.

Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdog

Shelties, sometimes known as "Lassie" dogs, are similar to collies. They're quiet, kind, and patient dogs that get along with kids of all ages and sizes. Shelties adore being around people. The breed is playful and well-behaved with boys, but it requires some training to overcome its natural tendency to nip or herd. Overly energetic boys may sometimes overwhelm the dog, so keep a close check on their interactions to ensure they get along.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retriever

A labrador retriever is another dog that gets along well with energetic boys since they enjoy playing and frolicking — in other words, they'll exhaust you! Labs love to make their pack members happy, which is why they are easy to train. The worst thing about Labs is that they only live for 10 to 12 years and are prone to tumors, which means they will spend less time with you and your family. Labrador retrievers are devoted members of the family.

They are one of the last canines to become violent due to their even temperament. They are kind, gentle, and intelligent dogs. They get along swimmingly with the family's children and other pets. They don't mind if a child hugs, pats, or prods them. So, their laid-back attitude is ideal for families with young boys. However, they need plenty of space, preferably with a backyard, because they need a lot of exercise on a daily basis.

Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever
Golden Retriever

Golden retrievers are known for their patience, which is something that all parents wish they had more of. They are also loyal, gentle, and smart, so they get along well with growing children. They do require a lot of activity, but this is unlikely to be a problem for any boy because they like playing so much. A golden retriever resembles a Labrador retriever with longer hair and a thicker coat.

They have the same temperament: gentle, laid-back, tolerant, and non-aggressive. If this breed does not have a productive means to discharge its abundant energy, it might become hyperactive and unruly. It's a cheerful and intelligent breed that can make a fantastic playmate for school-aged children who like fetch and other yard games.

Mutt

Mutt
Mutt

What's the best thing about getting a mutt? They are a mixed breed and combine the best of both worlds. They blunt the edges of any purebred dog and bring the best out of it. Mutts are also the dogs most in need of rescue, yet they are generally healthier than purebreds. This means you'll have a higher chance of finding a dog who will blend in with your family and get along with everyone. Medium dogs are ideal because they aren't too large to overwhelm young boys (or you), and you don't have to worry about your youngster accidentally hurting them.

Pit Bull

Pit Bull
Pit Bull

Pit bulls are known in the media for causing injuries or assaulting individuals than other breeds, yet these dogs are actually fantastic with children and boys if properly trained and socialized at a young age. Fortunately, pit bulls are intelligent and easily trainable, and they like making their owners happy. When you combine it with the fact that they're lively, playful, and strong enough to withstand a lot of roughhousing but don't require a lot of exercise, you've got a fantastic dog for boys. Plus, who wants to mess with a boy who has a pit in his backyard?

Boston Terrier

Boston Terrier
Boston Terrier

Boston terriers enjoy socializing and will jump at the chance to meet new people or see old acquaintances. They are easy to teach, require moderate exercise, and are sturdy canines, making them ideal for boys who want to engage in activities and adventures with their canine buddies.

Boston terriers are a non-aggressive breed that enjoys playing games and having fun with their pack. They may become excessively exuberant at times and mistakenly knock over a little boy or toddler, but they mean no harm.

Rottweilers

Rottweilers
Rottweilers

Although rottweilers look fierce and aggressive, this breed has a lively and friendly element. Rottweilers have a nasty reputation, but they make great family pets if you have older boys—not so much for small children. The Rottweiler is a robust, large, and domestic dog breed.

The Rottweiler is regarded as one of the world's best family protection dogs. They are natural guardians who respond to stimuli in their environment softly and with a wait-and-see attitude. The Rottweiler's strength, loyalty, and intelligence are well-known, and it's no surprise that it's a popular breed. So, do you think a Rottweiler is a nice dog for boys? This dog is wary of strangers and has a natural aggressive instinct when confronted with a perceived threat, making it an excellent guard dog.

Why Do Boys Love Dogs?

The phrase "man's best friend" has a nice ring to it. However, the statement may be more accurate than we realize for middle-aged males. According to research conducted by American clinical psychologist Chris Blazina, up to 42% of middle-aged men are more prone than anybody else in their social circles to turn to their dog for emotional support at difficult times.

This, according to Dr. Blazina, occurs because "guys are quite reluctant to seek various forms of support and treatment — whether in the medical realm or merely among their social network."

However, it's not all bad news: a strong and meaningful friendship with a four-legged companion may help isolated men reconnect with others.

We adore canines. They're devoted, reassuring, and unconditionally loving. Do we, however, love them more than the people in our lives?

Dr. Blazina examined a number of studies in order to better understand how bonding with a pet might improve men's lives. Men were asked to compare their closest human and animal companions on how secure their bond felt in a statewide research study in the United States.

A stable relationship with an animal friend was deemed 'nearly always' secure in 62 percent of cases.

Only 10% of men said the same thing about their closest human buddy. 'Sometimes' was the most popular classification for a human bond.

According to this theory, men have stronger emotional relationships with their dogs than with the people in their lives.

Dr. Blazina explains, "One study I undertook indicated that as men become older — middle age and beyond – their dogs take on an even more crucial role."

Boys Who Love Dogs Are Compassionate

People who adore dogs are endowed with large hearts. They are generous, compassionate, and caring. When you're having a bad week and need someone to chat to, they're the person in every friend group you call up for happy hour.

Dogs are raucous, rowdy, noisy, and unruly. No matter how old a dog lover gets, they never outgrow the simple joy of throwing a ball around or walking in the grass with their bare feet. They make you laugh and joke around in partnerships. They are young souls who remind you that life should be enjoyable.

Dogs teach you how to accomplish something for someone else even if it isn't pleasurable. No one wants to get up early on their day off to walk their dog, but you do it because you love him. You want to hang around with people like these.