What is a nanny dog?
What is a nanny dog?
The term nanny dog refers to dogs that are said to be especially good with children - patient, tolerant, loving, and protective. However, it’s important to note that this isn’t a formal breed classification. And no dog is safe to leave unsupervised with children purely on account of its breed or reputation.
Where does the term nanny dog come from?
There’s no single clear origin for the term nanny dog. In America, around the late 19th or early 20th century, Pit Bull Terriers were often seen as loyal, family-friendly pets. And in the UK the term is particularly associated with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
In both countries, old photos and adverts showed dogs sitting beside children, which helped build their image as protectors. And over time, those pictures turned into stories about certain breeds being naturally good with kids. However, the term nanny dog likely appeared much later as a way to show these dogs in a positive light or to push back against negative stereotypes.
- Important! It’s worth noting that Pit Bull Terriers are banned in the UK, and the term nanny dog has faced some criticism. Many people feel it gives an overly rosy image of certain breeds and can distract from what really matters - proper training, socialisation, and supervision, no matter what type of dog you have.
What breeds are nanny dogs?
Nanny dogs are more an informal group than an official label - there’s no official breed register that lists nanny dogs as a category. However, the term’s most associated with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier in the UK. Other breeds sometimes referred to as nanny dogs include the Newfoundland, Mastiff, Boxer, and various other types of Pit Bull.
But, remember, just because a dog belongs to a particular breed doesn’t guarantee that it’s suitable for family life. A dog’s individual temperament, upbringing, training, and environment matter more.
Why are Staffies called nanny dogs?
The nanny dog nickname for Staffies probably came about as a way to describe how families used to keep these (and other Pit-type dogs) as loyal, gentle companions who were great with kids.
In Britain, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier earned a reputation as a solid working-class family dog in the 19th and early 20th centuries. That said, even though some old photos show Staffies alongside kids, there’s no real evidence they were ever actually bred or used to look after children.
Are Pit Bulls considered nanny dogs?
This depends on which breed we’re talking about, as the term “Pit Bull” covers a group of dog breeds, including the American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
While some Pit Bulls such as the Pit Bull Terrier are banned in the UK, many Pit-type dogs can be affectionate, people-orientated, and loyal – particularly the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Staffies are often said to have traits associated with nanny dogs, such as patience, protectiveness, and a love of their humans.
Like any breed, however, they should always be supervised around children. No dog should be used as a nanny dog. And their strength and enthusiasm mean they’re better suited to experienced owners who understand training and boundaries.
Best nanny dogs
If you’re looking for a dog that will join in with family activities and be good with children, there are some general characteristics you’ll want to look out for. For example:
- A calm and tolerant nature.
- Reliability in obedience and socialisation.
- Good health and sound temperament.
- Size and strength suited to your household environment.
Many families find the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the classic nanny dog, is affectionate, energetic, and family-orientated when well-raised. But they’re still powerful dogs, and won’t be right for every owner.
When selecting a puppy or rescue dog, look for early socialisation with children, gentle exposure to family life, and ask about their temperament and how it’s been assessed.
For more information, read our guide on the best dogs for children.
Nanny dogs: What to consider when choosing a family dog
Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re choosing a dog for a family with children (or have one already).
- Socialisation from a young age – Exposure to children, household noises, other pets and new environments helps a dog develop confidence and calm behaviour.
- Training and boundaries – Teach your dog what’s acceptable around children (and vice versa). Don’t assume puppies instinctively know how to behave.
- Supervision is non-negotiable – Research from Alder Hey Children's Hospital in Liverpool found that children aged 4 were most commonly bitten by dogs, with 13% of bites happening without any adult present and 70% of cases occurring where the supervision status was unknown.
- Select your dog carefully – When buying or adopting, ask how the dog’s temperament has been assessed, its socialisation history, and behaviour around children and other animals.
- Respect boundaries – Kids should never climb on, grab, or tease a dog. Even the most tolerant dogs have limits.
- Breed isn’t everything – Temperament is shaped by genetics and environment. No breed alone can guarantee a “safe” family dog.
Overall, if you’re seeking a reliable family companion it’s best to look beyond labels like nanny dog. With good training, socialisation and understanding, dogs of many breeds can grow into loving, safe and loyal companions for children.
Looking for the right dog for your family? For more advice, explore Agria’s A-Z of dog breeds and our guide on the best dogs for families.
FAQs about nanny dogs
- Written by
- Adam Jolley
- Last reviewed on
About the Author
Adam Jolley is a writer specialising in insurance, personal finance, and pets. He’s worked for Confused.com and Admiral Insurance, and currently writes and edits for an online magazine. His strangest pet was a hissing cockroach. Now, he’s a proud cat dad to Penelope, affectionately known as Nelly.
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