Discover the 5 Dog Breeds Known as Nanny Dogs for Families

Just like Nana the dog from Peter Pan, the term “nanny dog” refers to any breed of dog that’s known to be good with children. Ideally, a nanny dog would protect the children just like a human nanny, while showing them lots of affection, being patient, and entertaining them without toppling them over while playing. These breeds are celebrated for their gentle temperament, patience, and protective instincts, making them ideal for households with children. While no dog should ever be left unsupervised with young kids, certain breeds have earned the “nanny dog” nickname due to their exceptional ability to bond with and care for children.

Why Choose a Nanny Dog for Your Family?

Dogs and kids can be a great match! Dogs encourage children to exercise and appreciate the outdoors, whilst also helping to develop the social skills of both dog and child alike. When thinking about adding a four-legged friend to the household, parents often worry about the specific dog breeds, as there are some which are a little less predisposed to tolerate the attentions of children. A good place to start is by looking for breeds with certain characteristics, such as loyal, patient, energetic, friendly, and easily trained. That being said, the individual dog’s personality is the most important thing. Breed characteristics are a good place to start when looking for a family dog, but individual personality should be the overall determinant.

Key Traits of Nanny Dogs

• Calm and Even Temperament: Nanny dogs are patient and can handle the excitement and unpredictability of children.
• Affectionate and Loyal: These dogs form strong bonds with family members, especially kids.
• Protective Instincts: They are watchful and ready to guard their human companions.
• Playful and Energetic: Nanny dogs match the energy of children, making them great playmates.
• Tolerance for Rough Play: They can handle tugs, pulls, and accidental roughhousing with grace.

Top 5 Nanny Dog Breeds for Families

Below, we explore five dog breeds renowned for their nanny dog qualities, each with unique characteristics that make them exceptional family pets.

1. Golden Retriever

When you think of a family dog, your mind probably goes straight to a golden retriever. The American Kennel Club (AKC) calls these big blondies “outgoing, trustworthy, and eager-to-please family dogs,” who are easy to train and playful even in old age. A Golden is incredibly trustworthy, outgoing, and ready to please your entire family. And though they’re quiet, they still love to play with the kids around the home and yard. Golden Retrievers are friendly, tolerant, and affectionate dogs known for their gentle demeanor, making them great with children. They are large-sized dogs with a sturdy build who benefit from a yard to run in and need daily exercise. Their long coats also require a bit of maintenance, since they shed quite a bit and require plenty of brushing.

2. Labrador Retriever

Labradors are regularly referred to as one of the best dog breeds for families, known for a fondness for being around children and getting along well with other pets in the home too. The labrador is a playful, kind and affectionate dog who loves nothing more than to spend time with their pack. They’re full of energy and incredibly smart, so they’re well suited to those with active lifestyles. A Labrador Retriever pup is one of the most highly-attached dog breeds, making them incredibly loyal to any owner, including kids. A Lab also has a friendly disposition and a lot of energy to burn – they’ll want to enjoy playtime with the little ones as much as possible and will outlast even the most energetic of kids! One thing to bear in mind with the breed is that young labs tend to be quite exuberant and will jump and bounce around, so if you have very small children, you may want to consider rehoming an older dog who is past this stage.

3. Newfoundland

Not all dogs that are good with children are child-sized. Some of the biggest dogs, such as the furry Newfoundland, can be exceptionally patient and gentle with children. The Newfoundland, or “Newfie,” is a giant breed known for their sweet temperament and love of children. Although gentle, an adult Newfoundland can be 28 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh as much as 150 pounds. This should be a consideration for smaller living spaces. Newfies also tend to drool, and their thick coats require regular grooming. Newfies are so caring and protective of children that they are often called “nanny dogs.” They are dedicated water rescue dogs. Looking more like a bear than a dog, the Newfie may seem a surprising choice for a family dog if you aren’t familiar with the breed. These giant dogs are smart, calm, and loyal. They typically weigh 120-175 pounds, and they shed a lot, but they are often referred to as the “nanny dog.” Nana in “Peter Pan” is a Newfie.

4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier

This one may surprise you, but Staffordshire Bull Terriers are actually thought to be one of the best dog breeds for kids and have even earned themselves the name ‘nanny dog’. When well socialised, they possess sweet natures and absolutely love life, people and playing with their family. Staffordshire bull terriers fall under the pitbull umbrella, which can make many parents skeptical of bringing them around children, but like any breed, properly socialized Staffys can make great pets. They were one of the first breeds coined nanny dogs thanks to their special love of children, says the AKC, and today they’re known to be sweet-natured, family-oriented, and patient with kids. They’re also one of the breeds most commonly found in shelters, so adding a pup like this to your family shouldn’t be a large expense. The loyalty of Staffordshire Bull Terriers often extends beyond their own family, as they are known to be watchful protectors of the neighborhood children.

5. Boxer

From being very active to having a friendly temperament, the Boxer is a good dog for families with kids. Whether your kid wants to play in the yard, go swimming, or watch a movie, your dog will be happy to accompany her. The boxer thrives in human friendships, especially those with children. He is gentle and sweet around them¡ªalways looking for ways of pleasing them. The clowns of the dog world, Boxers love kids. They might be too boisterous for small children, but they make great playmates for kids big enough not to be easily knocked over by the Boxer’s enthusiasm. The Boxer breed also managed a reputation as a bit dangerous, but these sweet dogs are anything but!

Comparing Nanny Dog Breeds

To help you choose the right nanny dog for your family, here’s a comparison table highlighting key characteristics of the five breeds discussed.

Myths and Misconceptions About Nanny Dogs

The term “nanny dog” has sparked some controversy, particularly with breeds like the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and other pit bull types. While pit bulls have been called “babysitters” because they are gentle around children, there is no evidence that children were ever left completely alone in the care of Pit Bulls. The term likely emerged from a combination of anecdotal evidence, historical photographs, and media portrayals that showed pit bulls in familial settings, often surrounded by children. This article aims to correct a few fallacies and pit bulls were never called nannies or nanny dogs. Period. Let’s stop spreading untruths about this dog breed. Calling them fake names and giving them a phony history doesn’t help the species. It’s important to clarify that no dog, regardless of breed, should be left unsupervised with children.

Debunking the Pit Bull Nanny Dog Myth

Pit Bulls weren’t originally bred for nanny dogs. Many Pit Bull breeds were bred for hunting in 19th century England, Scotland, and Ireland or, in the case of American Pit Bull Terriers in the late 19th century, for fighting. Throughout the 19th century, Pit Bulls were increasingly bred as pets ¡ª predominately for families in the working class. This was the time around which Pit Bulls began to be recognized for their “nanny dog” qualities which made them ideal in homes with children. However, the notion that pit bulls were called “nanny Dogs” in the 19th century is a modern myth. The wonderfully named Lilian Rant, President of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club of America, says “The Stafford we know today quickly becomes a member of the family circle. He loves children and is often referred to as a ‘nursemaid dog.’” The most important thing to note here is that she is clearly speaking in the present tense, not claiming a much gentler history for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

Tips for Introducing a Nanny Dog to Your Family

Bringing a nanny dog into your home requires careful planning to ensure a smooth transition for both the dog and your children. Here are some practical steps to follow:

• Research the Breed: Understand the breed’s temperament, exercise needs, and grooming requirements to ensure it fits your family’s lifestyle.
• Meet the Dog: Spend time with the individual dog to assess its personality. A calm and friendly demeanor is key.
• Teach Kids Respect: Educate children on how to interact with dogs, avoiding rough play or pulling on ears and tails.
• Supervise Interactions: Always monitor children and dogs together, especially during the initial adjustment period.
• Provide Training: Enroll your dog in obedience classes to reinforce good behavior and ensure safety.
• Create a Safe Space: Give the dog a quiet area to retreat to when it needs a break from playtime.

Best Products for Nanny Dog Owners

To make life with your nanny dog even more enjoyable, consider these products available on Amazon. They cater to the needs of family-friendly dogs and their owners.

• Dog Bed for Comfort: A cozy bed ensures your dog has a comfortable place to rest after playing with the kids. Check out the PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed for durable, washable comfort.
• Interactive Toys: Keep your dog engaged with toys like the KONG Classic Dog Toy, perfect for energetic breeds like Labs and Boxers.
• Grooming Kit: For breeds like Newfoundlands, a grooming kit is essential. Try the FURminator Deshedding Tool to manage shedding.
• Training Treats: Reinforce good behavior with Zuke’s Mini Naturals Training Treats, ideal for obedience training.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nanny Dogs

What makes a dog a “nanny dog”?

A nanny dog is a breed known for its gentle, patient, and protective nature around children. These dogs are typically affectionate, tolerant of rough play, and loyal, making them great companions for families.

Are nanny dogs safe to leave alone with children?

No dog, including nanny dogs, should ever be left unsupervised with children. Even the most gentle breeds can react unpredictably if startled or uncomfortable. Always monitor interactions to ensure safety.

Which nanny dog breed is best for small living spaces?

Among the nanny dog breeds, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a good choice for smaller spaces due to its medium size and moderate exercise needs. However, ensure it gets daily walks and playtime.

Do nanny dogs require special training?

While nanny dogs are naturally good with kids, training is essential to reinforce positive behaviors. Obedience classes and socialization help ensure they interact safely with children and other pets.

Where can I learn more about dog safety with children?

For expert advice on dog-child interactions, visit the American Kennel Club’s guide on dog safety for kids or follow Dogmeets_baby on Instagram for practical tips.

Conclusion: Finding Your Family’s Nanny Dog

Choosing a nanny dog for your family is a rewarding decision that can bring joy, companionship, and a sense of security to your household. Breeds like the Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Newfoundland, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and Boxer stand out for their exceptional qualities as family pets. By understanding their needs, debunking myths, and preparing your home, you can ensure a harmonious relationship between your children and their new furry friend. Explore the recommended products and resources to make the transition smooth and enjoyable for everyone involved.