by Kelly White

Created on: August 12, 2008

Are small dogs or big dogs safer for your children? In my experience, I have found more territorial breeds among the smaller dogs. Most small breeds nip, growl and bite at people other than their "owner". It seems as though they choose one person in particular, usually their main caregiver, and screw everyone else. And if you're a stranger, good luck even entering the driveway without the loud consistant yip yap of the small canine. My other concern regarding small breeds is if you are looking for child companionship, smaller breeds aren't always the healthiest. Their immunity is weaker and they seem to age a bit faster than their larger counterparts.

Of course, like anything else, there are the good and the evil, the ying and the yang of both size dogs. Look at pugs for instance. They are considered to be the most affectionate breed, yet they are small. So, my opinion is just a generalization, just like the question.

My all time favorite breed, closest to my heart, is considered a large breed. I love English Labrador Retrievers! They are gentle and loyal. They prefer to lick you full of smoosh if you are entering their domain, rather than threaten you or taste you. But I have come across a few Labs that have been trained to attack on command, or at the sight of a certain race or gender. Labs, as loveable as they are naturally, can be bred to be lean, mean biting machines! And it's extremely sad that many breeds succumb to being stereotyped because of their owners negative traits.

So, what if you are trying to choose a dog for your family and your biggest concern is your childs safety? Check out websites that explain the different breeds of dogs and what qualities they each possess. Check out the temperments, whether they are good with children, whether they are jealous or demanding, etc. Once you have chosen a breed, look up specific websites for that breed and do your homework! After all, if you choose to buy a puppy to grow along with your children, whether for bonding or for a less threatening jaw, remember that some breeds can have a lifespan of 12 - 18 years!

You want the safest dog to be around your children? My suggestion for the best guarantee is to buy a young dog of the safest breed, whether large or small, and train it with love and care. Bring it to obedience school and have your children be active in the training. They will most likely create a bond that will make you feel secure that your children are safe around their pet. And hopefully, they will become their best friends.

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