21 Worst Dogs for Kids (with Photos): Which Breeds to Avoid for Your Family?

When it comes to choosing a dog for a family with kids, there are many factors to consider. Some breeds are known for their gentle and friendly nature, while others may not be the best fit for a household with young children. 

As a family dog expert – I get asked about breed choice a lot! In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the worst dogs for kids and why they may not be the best choice for families. We go into specific reasons not just a random list based on dog attacks, dog bite stats or what social media consider to be the worst dog breeds.

While it’s true that any dog can be trained to behave well around children, some breeds are naturally more patient and tolerant than others. For example, breeds that were originally bred for hunting or guarding may be more prone to aggression or territorial behavior, which can be dangerous for kids. 

Additionally, some dogs may have a high prey drive, which can make them more likely to chase or even attack small children.

It’s important to note that every dog is an individual and there are always exceptions to the rule. It is also important remember to remember there are mixed breed dogs that are just as dangerous. Size is also not always a factor, you will see many smaller dogs make this list too.

 However, if you’re considering getting a dog for your family and you have young children, it’s important to do your research and choose a breed that is known for being good with kids. With that said, let’s take a closer look at some of the worst dogs for kids and why they may not be the best fit for your family.

Worst Dogs for Kids

1	Rottweiler	Powerful, protective, requires experienced handling and socialization
2	St. Bernard	Large size, drooling, may accidentally knock over small children
3	Shiba Inu	Independent, stubborn, strong-willed, may not tolerate young children’s behavior
4	Borzoi	Independent, strong prey drive, may not tolerate young children’s behavior
5	Siberian Husky	High energy, strong prey drive, independent, can be difficult to control
6	Weimaraner	High energy, strong prey drive, may be overly exuberant and knock over small children
7	American Pit Bull Terrier	Controversial reputation, requires experienced handling, strong prey drive
8	Greyhound	Sensitive, strong prey drive, may not tolerate young children’s behavior
9	Australian Cattle Dog	High energy, can be nippy, bred for herding, requires consistent training
10	Chow Chow	Independent, stubborn, can be aggressive if not socialized properly
11	Great Dane	Large size, may accidentally knock over small children, prone to health issues
12	Dalmatian	High energy, boisterous, may accidentally knock over small children
13	Chihuahua	Small and fragile, may not tolerate young children, can be possessive and snappy
14	Chinese Shar-Pei	Independent, stubborn, can be aggressive if not socialized properly
15	Boxer	High energy, can be boisterous and clumsy, may accidentally knock over small children
16	Alaskan Malamute	High energy, strong prey drive, can be difficult to control
17	Basenji	Stubborn, independent, not very affectionate, can be aloof with children
18	Belgian Malinois	High energy, bred for work, requires experienced handling, may be too intense for children
19	Doberman Pinscher	Powerful, protective, requires experienced handling and socialization
20	Akita	Possessive, stubborn, and potentially aggressive if not socialized properly
21	Bullmastiff	Large and powerful, requires early socialization and training, can be protective

Aggressive Breeds

When it comes to dogs and kids, safety should always be a top priority. While many breeds are great with children, others can be more aggressive and may pose a risk. Here are some of the most aggressive dog breeds to watch out for:

Pit Bulls

Pit bulls are often at the top of the list when it comes to aggressive dog breeds. They were originally bred for fighting, and while many pit bulls make great pets, some can be unpredictable and dangerous.

Pit bulls have powerful jaws and can cause serious injuries if they attack. They are also known for their high energy levels and can be difficult to train.

Rottweilers

Rottweilers are another breed that can be aggressive towards children. They are large and powerful dogs that were originally bred for herding and guarding.

Rottweilers can be protective of their families, but they can also be territorial and may not tolerate strangers or other animals. They require a lot of training and socialization to be safe around children.

Doberman Pinschers

Doberman Pinschers are intelligent and loyal dogs, but they can also be aggressive towards children. They were originally bred as guard dogs and have a strong protective instinct.

Dobermans can be territorial and may not tolerate other animals or strangers. They require a lot of training and socialization to be safe around a young kid.

It’s important to note that not all dogs of these breeds are aggressive, and there are many factors that can contribute to a dog’s behavior. However, if you’re considering getting a dog for your family, it’s important to do your research and choose a breed that is known for being good with children.

Large Breeds

Great Danes

Great Danes are known for their large size and gentle nature. However, they may not be the best choice for families with young children. Great Danes can unintentionally knock over small children due to their size and weight. They also have a tendency to be stubborn and require early and consistent training.

Mastiffs

Mastiffs are another large breed that may not be suitable for families with young children. While they are known for their loyalty and protective nature, they can also be quite territorial and may not react well to unfamiliar people or animals.

Mastiffs also require a lot of exercise and may become destructive if not given enough physical activity.

Irish Wolfhounds

Irish Wolfhounds are the tallest breed of dog and can weigh up to 180 pounds. While they are known for their calm and gentle nature, they may not be the best choice for families with young children due to their size. They also have a tendency to be aloof and may not be as affectionate as other breeds.

Overall, large breeds can be wonderful pets for the right family. However, it’s important to consider the needs and temperament of each breed before making a decision. Families with young children may want to consider smaller breeds or breeds that are known for their patience and gentleness.

High-Energy Breeds

Siberian Huskies

Siberian Huskies are beautiful dogs that are known for their thick fur and stunning blue eyes. They are also known for being high-energy dogs that require a lot of exercise and attention. While they can be great family pets, they are not recommended for families with young children.

These dogs were originally bred to pull sleds across long distances, so they have a lot of energy and require a lot of exercise. They can become destructive if they are not given enough exercise and attention, which can be a problem for families with young children who may not have the time or energy to keep up with their needs.

If you are considering a Siberian Husky as a family pet, be sure to do your research and make sure you have the time and resources to give them the attention and exercise they need.

Dalmatians

Dalmatians are best known for their unique spotted coat and their role in the classic children’s story, “101 Dalmatians.” While they can be great family pets, they are not recommended for families with young children.

These dogs are high-energy and require a lot of exercise and attention. They can become destructive if they are not given enough exercise and attention, which can be a problem for families with young children who may not have the time or energy to keep up with their needs.

If you are considering a Dalmatian as a family pet, be sure to do your research and make sure you have the time and resources to give them the attention and exercise they need.

Jack Russell Terriers

Jack Russell Terriers are small dogs with big personalities. They are known for their high energy levels and their love of play. While they can be great family pets, they are not always recommended for families with young children.

These dogs require a lot of exercise and attention, and they can become destructive if they are not given enough exercise and attention. They also have a strong prey drive, which means they may not be suitable for families with small pets.

If you are considering a Jack Russell Terrier as a family pet, be sure to do your research and make sure you have the time and resources to give them the attention and exercise they need.

Breeds That Require Specialized Care

Chow Chows

Chow Chows are known for their thick, fluffy coats and blue-black tongues. They are also known for their independent and stubborn personalities. While they can be loyal and affectionate with their families, they are not always good with children.

They require early socialization and training to help them become more comfortable around kids.

Chow Chows also require a lot of grooming to keep their coats healthy and free from mats. They shed heavily twice a year and need daily brushing to prevent tangles and matting. They are also prone to several health issues, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies.

Afghan Hounds

Afghan Hounds are elegant and regal dogs with long, silky coats. They are known for their independent and aloof personalities. While they can be affectionate with their families, they are not always good with children. They require early socialization and training to help them become more comfortable around kids.

Afghan Hounds also require a lot of grooming to keep their coats healthy and free from mats. They shed lightly but need daily brushing to prevent tangles and matting.

They are also prone to several health issues, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies. Not easy to deal with if you are already super busy with kids!

Chinese Shar Pei

Grooming takes most of the time with this dog breed, which leads little spare time for family and child commitments.

Chinese Shar-Peis are a wrinkly dog breed with a unique appearance. They are known for their loyal and protective personalities. While they can be affectionate with their families, they are not always good with children. They require early socialization and training to help them become more comfortable around kids.

Chinese Shar-Peis also require a lot of grooming to keep their skin healthy and free from infections. Their wrinkles need to be cleaned regularly to prevent bacteria from building up. They are also prone to several health issues, including skin problems, eye problems, and allergies.