Choosing a dog to adopt is similar to selecting a new family member. It’s not a choice to be made lightly, so do your homework before adding any new furry member to your household. The choice is much more crucial when children are involved.
It’s a fact that not all dog breeds are suitable for households with young children. They could be prone to anxiety, easily hurt during hard play, or they might just prefer quiet homes.
A family dog is also greatly influenced by training. Learn about positive reinforcement by using this book on dog training.
Here are a few considerations to bear in mind when choosing a family dog, as well as ten dog breeds that are inherently kid-friendly.
Qualities Of Dogs Who Are Great With Kids
No matter which dog breed you decide to adopt from the shelter, there are certain qualities you should look for if they’re going to live in a home with human children. These qualities will help keep kids safe, as well as dogs.
Here are a few traits to look for in a dog who will be living with children:
10. Bulldog
Bulldogs are descended from ancient Mastiff-type canines, despite their little stature. They still have a stocky build, despite the fact that they might be a little less vertically mobile now.
The Bulldog, which is not the most active breed on this list, is content to be a lapdog and tolerating some small irritations. Because they move more slowly and tend to be more laid-back than certain herding dogs, you won’t have to worry about them pursuing or biting children as they play.
9. Bernese Mountain Dog
Originally used for farm work, this breed is eager to learn and easy to train. These gentle beasts make great companion animals.
However, due to their large size, they are not suitable for living situations with limited space. If you have the space for one, they’re an easy choice for their happy-go-lucky demeanor.
8. Pug
Pugs make decent watchdogs, too, though they may get a little yappy, especially if they aren’t properly trained. Speaking of which, the Pug’s intelligence makes them quite capable of learning, but they tend to be stubborn and willful. They need consistent training.
7. Boston Terrier
Nicknamed “The American Gentleman” due to their tuxedo-like markings, these dogs were originally — believe it or not — bred as fighting dogs. But don’t write them off just yet!
6. Brussels Griffon
Kids might love the Griffon’s monkey-like face, friendliness, and pleasant demeanor. Dogs of this breed will return that affection in kind, so long as they get plenty of early socialization and training.
5. Basset Hound
Bred as pack dogs, they’re loyal to their families and may always be “under foot.” Their medium size — 50 to 60 pounds — makes them adaptable to almost any living space.
4. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever once assisted fisherman in hauling in their nets and frequently dove into chilly waters—some still do. So if you have a pool or frequently take family vacations to the beach, this dog will undoubtedly lead the pack in diving in first.
Known for their natural friendliness, intelligence, and gentleness, many Lab parents make the mistake of thinking they don’t need training. On the contrary, Labs do best when they get a lot of mental stimulation and physical activity from a good training session. Anything less could result in unwanted — and destructive — behaviors.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This breed is perfect for kids who want to give their pets constant physical attention. But don’t let their calm disposition fool you. The Cavalier retains some of their heritage with a hearty appetite for games and an easy-to-train attitude.
2. Beagle
Small to medium-sized, active, and quite sociable are Beagles. They are wonderful family pets for all of these and more reasons.
As hounds, Beagles can be a little stubborn, like Bassets, but they’re great, active companions for all ages, making them a fantastic choice for most families.
1. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is arguably one of the greatest family dog breeds ever and the ideal pet for any household. They rank among the most well-liked dog breeds in the country.
The Golden is an excellent pet all around since it is intelligent, calm, trainable, and sociable. They also need a lot of exercise to stay happy.
Another “pack” breed, this one forms strong bonds with the entire family. A Golden Retriever is one of the friendliest and most social breeds, so most households can’t go wrong with one.