Before my now 21-month-old toddler burst onto the scene, our four-legged fur babies ruled the roost—and our hearts. I wondered how they’d adapt to a tiny new roommate. Our Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was curious and extra gentle, while our 90-pound lab took the “if I ignore it, it’ll go away” approach—until the baby started crawling, and then it was open kissing season. Now our tot is growing up with a built-in bestie (sadly, our lab passed) who happily endures full-body hugs and fur grabbed by the fistful.

Finding a baby-loving dog breed that fits your family takes some sniffing around. Look for one with a reputation for being gentle, patient, adaptable, and friendly, says Mary R. Burch, Ph.D., director of the American Kennel Club (AKC) Family Dog Program. Before introducing your dog to a baby, see that your dog is well-socialized and trained to follow basic commands like sit, stay, and down, she says. And let your pup “sniff out” your infant. “Bring home a blanket with the baby’s scent so your dog becomes accustomed to it,” Burch says. In prep for that first meet-cute, give your pooch plenty of exercise so they’re more relaxed—and keep them on a leash for safety, she says. And of course, never leave your dog with your baby unattended.

For nothing but puppy love, here are Burch’s top 10 baby-friendly breeds.

Boxer

Got a high-energy fam? A boxer may be your perfect pet match. These lovey-dovey powerhouses are also patient and protective, earning them high praise as kid-friendly pets.

Smart and loyal, they’re as easy to train as they are eager to cuddle. Just be ready to meet their energy needs with plenty of walks and playtime. Their short, shiny coat is low-maintenance, and a good weekly brush over is all that’s needed.

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Bulldog

Sweet and stout, these mellow mutts may be famous for their grouchy mugs, but they couldn’t be friendlier. Adaptable to their surroundings, they would thrive anywhere, though their short snout can cause labored breathing in hot and humid weather.

With an easy-to-care-for coat and minimal exercise needs, they’re ideal for a busy bunch.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

These lovable lap dogs are so friendly, they’d greet a burglar with kisses. They may make bad guard dogs, but they are trusty companions for kids!

Cavaliers are cheerful and easily trained, especially when food is around. Moderately active dogs, Cavs are happy with daily walks. Keep their silky coats smooth with regular brushing to avoid matting.

Labrador Retriever

Happy-go-lucky labs are one of the most popular breeds in the U.S. for a reason: They’re super smart, gentle, and couldn’t be more family friendly. They’re also highly trainable, thanks to their eagerness to please.

However, these kissing bandits don’t know the concept of personal space, so expect lots of snuggles—in your lap. They do have boundless energy, even well into adulthood, so daily exercise is a must. As seasonal shedders, weekly brushing is also a must.

Newfoundland

The gentlest of giants, the Newfie may look like a wild bear, but its disposition is pure teddy. They’re sweet and devoted, especially to children, often assuming the role of nanny dog.

Trusting and trainable, these big floofs need daily exercise like swimming and walking. As year-round shedders, their extra thick fur coat can make grooming a bit higher maintenance.

Golden Retriever

With a puppy-at-heart attitude through adulthood, goldens make for loyal family companions. They are intelligent, friendly, and devoted dogs who are loving towards kids—and really, everyone else.

Their playful temperament and high energy levels mesh well with an active family. Goldens shed seasonally and their long, luscious coats require weekly upkeep.

Beagle

Social butterflies (er, hounds), beagles love to be part of a pack—human or canine. Loving and lovable, the clever, energetic pups are an ideal fit for families.

These doggy detectives can track a scent trail with fervor, so a fenced-in yard is best. They also need interactive play to keep them from getting into mischief. Bonus: Their short coats practically take care of themselves.

Pug

Small but full of love, pugs are calm, playful, and endlessly loyal. Happy in a high-rise or a house, with young kids or an elderly owner, Pugs are easily adaptable.

A quick weekly brush keeps shedding under control, and moderate energy levels mean a daily stroll or some indoor play is all the workout they need.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Big in size and gentle at heart, Berners are strong, sturdy dogs that are particularly gentle with children. Though bred for hard work, they have a soft and affectionate nature and are just as content with some Netflix and chill indoors as they are exploring the great outdoors.

Plan for moderate daily exercise and a weekly brushing to manage that glorious double coat.

Clumber Spaniel

These mellow fellows (and gals) are chill companions and kid-proof playmates for overzealous tots. Smart, sweet, and eager to please, they respond well to training, though they can be wary around strangers.

Regular walks and interactive play are enough for lowkey Clumbers. Note: If they had an official nickname, it would be “Droolius Caesar,” since they slobber on the regular. They also need weekly brushing to control shedding.

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