Top 10 Dog Breeds for Children
Dog owners and lovers alike know the joy and happiness bringing a dog into your home can bring. Choosing the right dog can be a challenge. Especially if you have small children.
Dogs are a great way for children to learn about responsibility and love. Whilst having a great time.
The decision to bring a dog into your home should never be taken lightly. There are many factors to consider.
Like is your home suitable for a dog
Does it have a back yard? Will there be people around a lot to walk water and feed the dog? Are my children ready (old enough) for the responsibility of a dog? Can we afford the extra expense a dog will bring? What will we do with our dog if we go away on holiday? What breed of dog should I get for my situation?
Just like humans dogs have personalities. And the general demeanour of a dog can be traces back to its breeding.
This list has been compiled to help you make an informed choice if you are ready to introduce your kids to their best friend over the next 15 years or so.
It is not in order of preference since everyone’s situation is different.
Labrador Retriever – One of the more popular family breeds. They have lovely temperaments and are very intelligent, they love playing outdoors and enjoy long walks and exercise but if these needs are met, they are content enough to curl up with you and snooze.
Border Collies – Maybe more widely known as “Lassie Dogs”, these gorgeous dogs are doing very well with children. They are kind and gentle but active. Their coat needs to be brushed regularly to avoid matting.
Beagles - These dogs are ideal for a family who like the outdoors and lots of exercise. Their coats are easy to care for; they love to play with kids and are very sweet and good natured.
Shih Tzu – Originally used as companion dogs, these little dogs are also good with children, their long hair can be hard to maintain but if being kept as pet, it can be kept short. (Puppy Cut) They are very social dogs and love being with people.
Golden Retriever- The traditional family dog and are completely gentle and patient with kids. They love to play, are very smart and do well with a lot of children in the home. They relish playing ball and retrieving and need a lot of exercise.
Poodle – The Poodle is a very smart dog and can come in 3 sizes (Standard, Miniature and Toy).They are quite easy to train and adore their family. They also are ideal for those with allergies and their coat is easy to take care of.
Great Dane – Although very tall, these dogs are mild mannered and placid, they are known for their patience around kids and are extremely gentle.
Newfoundland (“Newfs” or “Newfies”) – These dogs are superb with kids and are very kind and protective. Known as “The Gentle Giant” or “Natures Babysitter”, these dogs do have coats that need a lot of attention and do tend to drool but really have a wonderfully sweet personality.
Pugs – With their curly tail and scrunched up little faces, these dogs are adorable, they are incredibly good with kids and love to play. These dogs seem to prefer people to other animals and are extremely social creatures.
Beagle Pug Cross – my personal favourite and both these breeds of dog are suited to families. They are mild tempered and don’t grow too big. They prefer humans over other animals or dogs which make them the perfect choice for kids. They have a lot of energy but don’t need to play and run for hours on end before they will sit still.
When choosing a dog to be the newest member of the family always make sure you predetermine the type of lifestyle you live and the lifestyle that the dog will have. Don’t choose a energetic dog if you don’t really have time to walk your dog.
It is also beneficial to get a new dog as a puppy as you will have complete control over you dog’s education and training. Enabling you to have complete control over your dog’s behavioural patterns.
This gives your puppy the time to get to know you and more importantly your kids without being a threat. You should implement training from day 1.
