10 Best Pets for Families with Kids: Safe & Fun Choices
Discover the 10 best pets for families with kids, from dogs and cats to fish and reptiles. Find kid-friendly pets that are safe, fun, and easy to care for!
Choosing the perfect pet for your family is exciting, especially when you have kids! The right pet can teach children responsibility, empathy, and provide endless fun. But with so many options, how do you pick the best pets for families with kids?
This guide highlights 10 kid-friendly pets, from dogs to amphibians, with tips to help you find the perfect match for your household.
Why Choose a Pet for Your Family?
Pets offer more than just companionship. They help kids develop emotional intelligence, learn caregiving skills, and stay active. However, not all pets are suitable for families with children. Factors like temperament, size, and care requirements are crucial when selecting a pet. Below, we explore the top 10 pets that are safe, engaging, and ideal for kids.
1. Dogs: Loyal and Playful Companions
Dogs are a classic choice for families due to their loyalty and playful nature. However, not all breeds are kid-friendly. Consider these factors when choosing a dog:
- Energy Level: High-energy breeds like Labrador Retrievers need space and exercise, while low-energy breeds like Pugs suit calmer households.
- Size: Small breeds like Chihuahuas are portable but fragile, while larger breeds like Golden Retrievers are sturdy and gentle.
- Temperament: Opt for breeds known for patience and friendliness, such as Beagles or Boxers.
- Allergies: Hypoallergenic breeds like Bichon Frises are ideal for allergy-prone families.
Top 5 Dog Breeds for Kids
- Labrador Retriever: Gentle, intelligent, and great with kids of all ages.
- Golden Retriever: Easygoing, trainable, and loves family playtime.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Small, affectionate, and perfect for smaller homes.
- Beagle: Friendly, compact, and ideal for active kids.
- Boston Terrier: Low-maintenance, loving, and great for small spaces.
Tip: Adopt from a local shelter or work with a reputable breeder to find a healthy dog that fits your family’s lifestyle.
Chuckit! Classic 26″ Dog Ball Launcher with Medium Ball
Elevate your fetch game with the Chuckit! Classic 26″ Dog Ball Launcher. Designed to help you throw farther and faster, this popular ball thrower makes playtime more engaging and challenging for your canine companion. Say goodbye to slobbery hands! The extended reach of this launcher allows for easy pickup of the included medium (2.5″) Chuckit! ball without the need to bend over or touch messy surfaces. It’s the perfect tool for energetic play sessions with medium-sized dogs weighing between 20 and 60 pounds.
This set includes one brightly colored, high-bounce Chuckit! ball that is easy for both you and your dog to spot during outdoor play. The Chuckit! Classic dog ball thrower has been a trusted favorite among dog owners for over two decades, known for its durability and ease of use. Made in the USA, this reliable fetch toy will provide countless hours of fun and exercise for your beloved pet, strengthening your bond through active play.
Pros
- Enhances fetch by allowing for farther and faster throws.
- Keeps hands clean by eliminating the need to touch slobbery balls.
- Specifically sized for medium dogs (20-60 lbs) and compatible with 2.5″ balls.
- Includes a bright and highly visible, high-bounce Chuckit! ball.
- Durable and easy to use design with a long-standing reputation.
- Made in the USA.
Cons
- Specifically designed for medium dogs; may not be optimal for very small or large breeds.
2. Cats: Independent Yet Affectionate
Cats are low-maintenance and affectionate, making them great for busy families. However, some breeds are better suited for homes with kids due to their social and gentle nature.
Best Cat Breeds for Families
- Maine Coon: Large, friendly, and great with kids.
- Ragdoll: Gentle, relaxed, and loves being handled.
- Siamese: Playful and social, but needs attention.
- Birman: Loving and calm, ideal for younger children.
- Devon Rex: Energetic and playful, perfect for active kids.
Care Tip: Cats like Persians require extensive grooming, so consider your family’s time commitment before choosing a breed.
Catit Senses 2.0 Digger Interactive Slow Feeder
Transform your cat’s mealtime into an engaging and playful experience with the Catit Senses 2.0 Digger Interactive Slow Feeder. This innovative feeder taps into your cat’s natural hunting instincts by featuring multiple vivid green tubes of varying depths within a stable base. Fill these tubes with your cat’s favorite dry food or treats and watch as they playfully paw and “hunt” for their meal, turning a routine into an exciting activity.
Designed to encourage a healthier eating pace for greedy eaters, this slow feeder helps prevent gulping and aids in digestion. The different tube depths stimulate natural pawing behavior in a fun and interactive way. Crafted from BPA-free materials, the Catit Senses 2.0 Digger also includes a rubber mat to secure the bowl and prevent tipping during enthusiastic feeding. Cleaning is a breeze as the rounded green tubes are easily removable for simple handwashing. As part of the Catit Senses 2.0 product line, this digger is designed to activate your cat’s senses, encouraging them to use sight, smell, taste, touch, and hearing to stimulate their natural instincts indoors.
Pros
- Turns mealtime into a fun and engaging play activity.
- Stimulates natural pawing and hunting behaviors in cats.
- Helps slow down eating for greedy eaters, promoting better digestion.
- Features multiple tubes with varying depths for added stimulation.
- Stable base with a rubber mat to prevent tipping.
- Made from BPA-free materials, ensuring your cat’s safety.
- Easy to disassemble and clean by handwashing.
- Part of the Catit Senses 2.0 line designed to activate all of your cat’s senses.
- Suitable for both dry kibble and treats.
Cons
- Primarily designed for dry food and treats; may not be suitable for wet food.
- Some cats might initially require encouragement to use the digger.
3. Rabbits: Soft and Social
Rabbits are cuddly, low-maintenance pets that thrive in family environments. They’re litter-trainable and come in various breeds, each with unique traits.
Top Rabbit Breeds for Kids
- Holland Lop: Small and gentle, perfect for handling.
- Netherland Dwarf: Tiny and adorable, great for small spaces.
- Lionhead: Fluffy and friendly, loves attention.
- Mini Lop: Calm and easy to care for.
- Havana: Sociable and low-maintenance.
Note: Rabbits need a proper diet and safe housing. Research their care needs to ensure they’re a good fit.
Rabbit Hutch with Casters & Waterproof Roof – 61.2″
Provide a safe and comfortable home for your small pets with this versatile Indoor and Outdoor Rabbit Hutch. Measuring 61.2″ L x 22.6″ W x 33.5″ H, this spacious bunny cage is perfect for 1-2 rabbits or other small animals, offering ample room without any weight limit. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, it features a durable waterproof asphalt roof that provides excellent protection from the elements. Keeping the hutch clean is incredibly easy thanks to three deep, removable plastic trays that can be pulled out from both the back and front, ensuring a hygienic environment for your furry friends.
Mobility is a key feature of this rabbit hutch, equipped with six smooth-gliding casters that allow you to effortlessly move the cage from your house to the garden, or wherever needed. Accessing and interacting with your pets is made simple with a large open roof on the run area and generous front doors, providing easy reach to every side of the cage. As a bonus, a metal feeder and a rabbit chewing toy are included to help set up your pet’s new home. Please note, the package contains one wooden hutch only; other decorations are not included.
Pros
- Three deep, removable pull-out trays for easy cleaning.
- Equipped with 6 casters for effortless portability.
- Waterproof asphalt roof suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
- Large open roof and front doors for easy pet access and interaction.
- Suitable for 1-2 bunnies and other small animals.
- Includes a metal feeder and chewing toy.
Cons
- Wooden construction may require more maintenance than plastic.
- Actual space may be tight for two larger rabbits.
- Does not include other decorative elements shown in some product images.
4. Guinea Pigs: Gentle and Easy to Handle
Guinea pigs are social, easy-to-care-for pets that love human interaction. Their small size and gentle demeanor make them ideal for kids.
Best Guinea Pig Breeds
- American: Smooth-coated and easy to handle.
- Peruvian: Long-haired and friendly, but needs grooming.
- Texel: Curly-coated and cuddly, great for kids.
Care Tip: Provide a spacious cage and fresh veggies to keep your guinea pig happy and healthy.
VISCOO 12-Panel Small Animal Playpen with Mat
Create a secure and spacious environment for your small pets with the VISCOO 12-Panel Small Animal Playpen. This versatile pet enclosure is crafted from high-quality coated steel, ensuring enhanced durability and sturdiness for long-term use. The encrypted fence iron mesh features a narrow 0.5-inch distance between wires, preventing small animals from getting trapped. For convenient management, one of the panels includes a door, allowing easy entry and exit for your furry friends. With an assembled size of 48″ x 24″ x 16″, this portable metal wire yard fence provides ample play and living space for a variety of small animals.
Installation of the VISCOO pet playpen is straightforward; simply connect the metal grating plates with ABS connectors and secure them with nylon ties to form a robust cage. A key feature is the included waterproof floor mat, perfectly sized at 24″x48″ to fit inside the assembled fence. Made from wear-resistant 600D Oxford cloth with a 4.7-inch height, this mat effectively protects your floors from spills and accidents. Its PVC waterproof coating makes cleaning effortless, requiring just a simple wipe with a towel. This C&C cage is an ideal solution for guinea pigs, rabbits, puppies, kittens, ferrets, rats, hamsters, hedgehogs, and even small ducks or chickens, allowing you to easily supervise them from any angle.
Pros
- High-quality, durable coated steel fence.
- Narrow mesh spacing (0.5 inches) prevents small animal entrapment.
- Includes a door panel for easy pet access.
- Comes with a waterproof, easy-to-clean Oxford cloth floor mat.
- Free assembly allows for various configurations and sizes.
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
- Ideal for a wide range of small animals including guinea pigs, rabbits, and puppies.
Cons
- Assembly requires gentle tapping of connectors, which may need a small mallet.
- The 16-inch height might be too low for very agile or climbing small animals.
- Connectors and ties may need occasional re-tightening for maximum sturdiness.
5. Hamsters: Small and Low-Maintenance
Hamsters are perfect for families with limited space. They’re nocturnal, so they’re active in the evenings, aligning with family time.
Best Hamster Types
- Syrian: Larger and easier to handle, great for younger kids.
- Dwarf: Smaller but friendly, suitable for older children.
Safety Tip: Supervise young kids when handling hamsters to prevent accidental injuries.
6. Fish: Calming and Educational
Fish are low-maintenance and teach kids about aquatic life. A well-maintained aquarium can be a beautiful addition to your home.
Best Fish for Families
- Betta: Colorful and easy to care for in small tanks.
- Guppy: Hardy and vibrant, great for beginners.
- Goldfish: Classic and low-maintenance, but needs a proper tank.
Tip: Start with a small tank and teach kids about water maintenance to ensure fish thrive.
Tetra 1-Gallon Hexagon Bubbling LED Aquarium Kit
Elevate your aquatic pet’s home with the Tetra Bubbling LED Aquarium Kit, a compact and stylish 1-gallon hexagon-shaped tank perfect for betta fish. This all-inclusive aquarium kit brings a vibrant touch to any room with its mesmerizing color-changing LED light disc, which automatically cycles through a spectrum of rainbow hues. Designed for optimal fish health, it integrates an air pump-driven Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter, ensuring your tank remains clean, clear, and provides a healthy, thriving environment for your aquatic companions.
The efficient air pump within this Tetra aquarium system serves a dual purpose, powering both the captivating bubbling disc and the essential internal power filter, streamlining functionality. For your convenience, the clear canopy features a thoughtfully designed hole, making daily feeding tasks simple and mess-free. This betta fish tank is an ideal starter kit for aquarists of all experience levels, creating an attractive and easy-to-maintain habitat for your finned friends.
Pros
- Compact 1-gallon hexagon design, ideal for betta fish.
- Color-changing LED bubbling disc adds aesthetic appeal.
- Includes Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter for clean water.
- Single air pump drives both bubbling action and filtration.
- Convenient feeding hole in the clear canopy.
- Suitable for all life stages of fish.
Cons
- 1-gallon size is very small, limiting fish options to bettas or small invertebrates.
- Bubbling action might be too strong for very timid fish.
- Requires regular maintenance due to small water volume.
7. Reptiles: Unique and Low-Maintenance
Reptiles like leopard geckos and bearded dragons are fascinating and easy to care for, making them great for curious kids.
Top Reptile Breeds
- Leopard Gecko: Small, docile, and colorful.
- Bearded Dragon: Interactive and gentle.
- Corn Snake: Non-venomous and easy to handle.
- African Spurred Tortoise: Unique and long-lived.
- Blue-Tongued Skink: Calm and engaging.
Care Tip: Ensure proper heating and lighting for your reptile’s enclosure.
REPTI ZOO 67 Gal Large Reptile Terrarium – 48″x18″x18″
Elevate your reptile’s habitat with the REPTI ZOO 67 Gallon Large Terrarium, an upgraded glass enclosure designed for optimal reptile care. This spacious 48″ x 18″ x 18″ tank features a patent-designed, robust construction with premium quality thick, high-hardness tempered glass for enhanced safety and durability. The tough screen top ensures excellent ventilation and allows for proper UVB and infrared penetration, crucial for your reptile’s health. Its raised bottom frame is ingeniously designed to accommodate a substrate heater, while the waterproof bottom allows the tank to function seamlessly as both a desert or rainforest terrarium, offering versatility for various reptile species.
Convenience is key with the REPTI ZOO terrarium, featuring front sliding doors that open independently, simplifying feeding and cleaning routines. A secure lock prevents escapes, providing peace of mind. Thoughtful ventilation is integrated with window vents on the left and right sides, in addition to the screen top. The terrarium also includes closable inlets on the top and right for managing wires and tubing, keeping your setup tidy and functional. This knock-down unit is remarkably easy to assemble or disassemble in approximately 5 minutes with clear, step-by-step instructions. Each glass terrarium is meticulously packaged with tough cardboard and reinforced foam to ensure safe transportation, and a replacement service is available for any damaged parts upon receipt.
Pros
- Large 67-gallon capacity for ample space.
- Premium quality tempered glass for safety and durability.
- Tough screen top provides excellent ventilation and UVB/infrared penetration.
- Raised bottom frame for substrate heaters and waterproof base for versatile use.
- Front sliding doors with lock for easy access and escape prevention.
- Multiple closable inlets for organized wiring and tubing.
- Easy 5-minute assembly/disassembly.
- Secure packaging and replacement service for damaged parts.
Cons
- Knock-down design requires initial assembly.
- Glass material is heavy and potentially fragile during handling.
- 67 gallons may still be too small for some very large adult reptiles.
8. Birds: Colorful and Interactive
Birds are lively and teach kids about responsibility through daily care. They’re ideal for families who enjoy interactive pets.
Best Bird Species
- Cockatiel: Friendly and low-maintenance.
- Budgie: Playful and easy to care for.
- Conure: Social and loves to play.
- Amazon Parrot: Affectionate and trainable.
- Macaw: Intelligent but needs space and attention.
Tip: Provide toys and social interaction to keep birds happy.
ZuPreem FruitBlend Bird Food for Parrots & Conures
Nourish your feathered friend with ZuPreem FruitBlend Bird Food, premium bird feed pellets specifically formulated for the vital nutritional needs of parrots and conures. This balanced diet is perfect for a variety of medium to large hookbills including Caiques, African Greys, Senegals, Amazons, Eclectus, and small Cockatoos. Each pellet is packed with essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals designed to support your bird’s overall wellbeing, promoting cardiovascular system health, liver function, and vibrant feather condition. The diverse shapes and colors of these delicious pellets not only provide complete nutrition but also stimulate your bird’s senses, keeping them engaged and happy.
Unlike traditional bird seed, which often lacks comprehensive nutritional value and can be high in unhealthy fats, ZuPreem FruitBlend offers a superior dietary solution. Our bird pellets are fortified to deliver a complete and balanced diet, surpassing the nutritional benefits of seed mixes. Proudly crafted in the USA, ZuPreem prioritizes quality by using only the finest whole grains and ingredients. These are carefully processed and pelletized to ensure your parrot or conure receives optimal nutrition in every bite, making it an excellent choice for parrot food and conure feed.
Pros
- Specifically formulated for parrots and conures.
- Provides vital and complete essential nutrition.
- Stimulating shapes and colors to engage birds.
- Supports cardiovascular, liver, and feather health.
- Nutritionally superior to traditional bird seed.
- Made in the USA with high-quality ingredients.
Cons
- Some birds may initially resist new pellet diets.
- Specific fruit flavors might not appeal to all birds.
- Requires proper storage to maintain freshness.
9. Arthropods: Fascinating and Safe
Arthropods like ladybugs and butterflies are educational and safe for kids. They’re perfect for teaching respect for small creatures.
Best Arthropods
- Ladybugs: Harmless and colorful.
- Butterflies: Beautiful and easy to raise with kits.
- Crickets: Safe and make soothing sounds.
Note: Use arthropods as a learning tool to spark kids’ interest in nature.
SunGrow Hermit Crab Huts – Natural Coco Hide (3-Pcs)
Create an authentic and stimulating environment for your arthropods with the SunGrow Hermit Crab Huts, a convenient 3-piece set of natural coconut hides. Each spacious coco tunnel, measuring approximately 5×3 inches, provides a cozy and secure hideout for hermit crabs, geckos, and lizards, offering a sense of privacy and security essential for their well-being. These versatile huts serve as more than just shelters; they become integral parts of your pet’s daily activities, from strolls and swims to quiet resting spots, mimicking their natural habitat in the wild and encouraging enriching behaviors.
The SunGrow Cocohuts are designed with two entranceways and a hole on top, allowing them to function as both a comfortable hideaway and an engaging tunnel for exploration and exercise. Hermit crabs will particularly enjoy the textured surface for crawling and climbing, and the dark interior provides a welcome shaded area, reducing their need to dig tunnels in the sand during bright periods. This raw coconut hideaway seamlessly blends with your terrarium or reptile tank, enhancing the natural aesthetic of your pet’s enclosure. Proper preparation involves rinsing thoroughly before use, and a “post-boil soak” with activated carbon is recommended for optimal water purity.
Pros
- Spacious 5×3 inch coco tunnels offer comfortable hiding.
- Multipurpose design with two entrances and a top hole for hideout or tunnel use.
- Textured surface encourages climbing and natural behaviors.
- Mimics natural habitat, enhancing terrarium aesthetics.
- Provides privacy and security for hermit crabs, geckos, and lizards.
- Comes in a convenient 3-piece pack for varied setup options.
Cons
- Requires pre-use rinsing and soaking for aquarium safety.
- Natural product, so size and shape may vary slightly.
- May be too small for very large hermit crabs or reptiles.
10. Amphibians: Low-Maintenance and Fun
Amphibians like frogs and toads are easy to care for and fascinating for kids. They’re ideal for families with limited space.
Terra by Battat – 60 Pcs Lizards Animal Tube
Dive into the fascinating world of cold-blooded creatures with the Terra by Battat – 60 Pcs Lizards Animal Tube. This collection features highly realistic plastic animal toys, showcasing a diverse array of reptile and amphibian figurines. Each tube contains 12 different miniature creatures, with a total of 60 fun animal toys, including detailed representations of frogs, alligators, snakes, lizards, and more. Perfect for young enthusiasts and collectors alike, these accurately detailed figures are designed to spark curiosity and provide endless opportunities for imaginative play.
Beyond just play, these Terra by Battat animal figures offer educational value, providing an engaging way for kids aged 3 and over to learn about various wildlife species. By encouraging imaginative scenarios, these realistic reptile and amphibian toys foster compassion for animals and a deeper understanding of the natural world. Durable and designed for little hands, this collection is an excellent addition to any toy chest, promoting both fun and learning about our planet’s incredible biodiversity.
Pros
- Includes 60 realistic and detailed reptile and amphibian figures.
- Features 12 different unique miniature creature designs.
- Excellent for imaginative play and storytelling.
- Educational value, promoting learning about wildlife.
- Durable plastic suitable for kids aged 3 and over.
- Great for collectors due to realistic details.
Cons
- Small pieces may pose a choking hazard for children under 3.
- Figures are not articulated.
- Comes in a tube, which may not be ideal for organized storage once opened.
Best Amphibians
- African Dwarf Frog: Small and aquatic, great for small tanks.
- American Toad: Hardy and low-maintenance.
- Tiger Salamander: Engaging and easy to care for.
- Fire-Bellied Newt: Colorful and active.
- Caecilian: Unique but needs a secure enclosure.
Care Tip: Maintain proper humidity and provide live insects for feeding.
How to Choose the Right Pet for Your Family
Selecting a pet involves more than just picking a cute animal. Consider these factors:
- Lifestyle: Active families may prefer dogs, while busy households might choose fish or hamsters.
- Space: Ensure you have room for your pet’s enclosure or exercise needs.
- Budget: Factor in costs for food, supplies, and vet care.
- Kids’ Ages: Younger kids need sturdier pets like guinea pigs, while older kids can handle delicate animals like hamsters.
- Allergies: Opt for hypoallergenic breeds or non-furry pets like fish or reptiles.
Pro Tip: Visit a local pet store or shelter to meet potential pets and ask staff for advice tailored to your family.
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Family Pet
From loyal dogs to colorful fish, there’s a pet for every family with kids. By considering your lifestyle, space, and kids’ needs, you can find a companion that brings joy and teaches responsibility. Ready to welcome a new furry, scaly, or feathered friend? Visit your local pet store or shelter to explore these kid-friendly pets today!
Still Unsure? Contact a local veterinarian or pet care expert for personalized recommendations. Share your family’s pet journey in the comments below!
FAQs About Pets for Families with Kids
Find the perfect pet for your family with these safe and fun options for kids.
What makes a pet suitable for kids?
Suitable pets for kids are gentle, low-maintenance, and safe. They should tolerate handling, have minimal aggression, and fit the family’s lifestyle. Pets like dogs, cats, and guinea pigs are great choices.
Are dogs good pets for families with kids?
Yes, dogs like Labradors or Beagles are loyal and gentle, making them ideal for kids. They require training and exercise but offer companionship and teach responsibility. Choose breeds known for patience.
Can cats be safe for children?
Cats, like Ragdolls or Maine Coons, are safe for kids if socialized early. They’re low-maintenance and affectionate but may scratch if mishandled. Teach kids gentle handling to ensure harmony.
Are guinea pigs good for young kids?
Guinea pigs are excellent for young kids due to their gentle nature and small size. They’re easy to care for, enjoy cuddling, and teach kids responsibility with minimal risk of injury.
Why are fish good pets for families?
Fish, like bettas or goldfish, are low-maintenance and safe, ideal for teaching kids about care without direct handling. A small aquarium adds fun and requires minimal daily upkeep.
Are rabbits suitable for kids?
Rabbits, like Holland Lops, are gentle but require careful handling to avoid stress or injury. They’re best for older kids who can learn proper care and provide a calm environment.
Can hamsters be good family pets?
Hamsters are low-maintenance and fun for kids but are nocturnal and may bite if startled. Supervise young children during handling to ensure safety for both the hamster and child.
Are birds safe pets for families?
Birds like budgies or cockatiels are colorful and engaging, suitable for older kids. They require gentle handling and a clean cage. Supervision ensures safe interactions and proper care.
What about reptiles for kids?
Reptiles like bearded dragons are safe for older kids with proper education. They’re low-maintenance but need specific habitats. Teach kids about hygiene, as reptiles can carry salmonella.
How do pets teach kids responsibility?
Pets teach kids responsibility through daily tasks like feeding, cleaning, and grooming. Simple duties with fish or guinea pigs help young children learn care and empathy in a fun way.
What pets are best for small living spaces?
For small spaces, consider fish, hamsters, or guinea pigs. These pets require minimal room, with compact tanks or cages, and are safe and manageable for kids in apartments.
How can I ensure my kids are safe with pets?
Choose gentle pets, supervise interactions, and teach kids proper handling. Ensure vaccinations and regular vet checkups for pets. Start with low-maintenance animals like fish to minimize risks.