Author Nora Roberts once wrote, "Everything I know I learned from dogs." She has a point. Dogs teach us how to be responsible, compassionate, kind, and attentive, and how to sleep in an S-shape around a furry bed hog. Dogs can play an important role in teaching those traits to children and helping them grow up to be kinder, gentler adults who also love dogs. That's why some parents consider dogs to be an important part of the family—or are willing to cave to the constant nagging.

Of course, my grouchy old Chihuahua serves as a reminder that not all dogs particularly like children or have any interest in teaching kindness or responsibility. Every animal has its own temperament and personality, of course, and training and upbringing are important, but there are some breeds that are generally considered better with children than others. While there are no guarantees in dogs (or baseball), if you're looking for a furry friend to add to your brood, these breeds are considered to be some of the best for families with kids.