The friendship and fun of their very own dog is a dream most kids wish for most of their childhood. You've discussed the responsibilities of dog ownership and now it's time to decide on the best dog for our kids. Some breeds have better matching characteristics and temperaments for children than others. Consider a mixed breed for a dog that may be smarter, healthier and easier to train than his purebred cousin.
Dogs to Avoid
There's no such thing as a bad dog, only owners who were irresponsible in their manner of training and treatment. On the other hand, there are some breeds that don't make the best pets for kids. For example, the terrier breeds can be a bit aggressive as they were bred for hunting, originally. A very small dog may not be the best choice, although very cute, as they can get stepped on. They simply aren't durable. Be sure and take your children with you when choosing a dog. You want to observe how the dog reacts to them and how they react to the dog.
Great Dog Breeds for Kids
AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERDS: They love to play and please their family members. Australian shepherds are perfect if your kids are old enough to run and throw a ball with her. These are very smart, easy to train dogs. This will make mom and dad happy as house training comes as second nature to this pet. Family members need to understand that a dog that is intelligent can also become easily bored. Make sure the "Aussie" gets enough attention and play time. If you decide on the Australian Shepherd but any of your children are a bit too small to run and play, get a puppy so it will grow with the little ones.
BEAGLES: This dog is the perfect kid-size pet, not so small they might accidentally hurt him and not so large that they can't handle him. He will love everyone in the family and go about the day with a wagging tail (like a smile on his face). He's ready to run and play at a moment's notice. They are curious dogs, so you will need to keep them contained or they may take off following their nose. It is probably best to get a puppy rather than a full grown dog unless you know the owner and how it's been handled. Beagles that have been allowed to rule the home as alpha dog, may not work well with children. But then, all dogs should be trained to know that the owner is the alpha dog of the pack.
BOXER: They are affectionate and loyal to the family. Boxers can be very energetic and may need more running and ball throwing than other breeds for kids. So, if you have active children that love being out doors with their dog, this dog will be a perfect choice. Although the boxer is known to be a perfect kid's dog and gets along well with other dogs and even cats in the family, rodents and birds may be too tempting to her.
ENGLISH SETTER: This mild mannered dog is perfect for kids. She is gentle, friendly and affectionate. Calm indoors, yet active and ready to go once taken outdoors. She is sensitive and should never be treated harshly, yet training should take place in a consistent manner. This is a good dog to bring into a family that already has other pets. She will love playing with the other family canines right off. They can be good diggers and jumpers, so keep this in mind when she is placed outdoors.
GOLDEN RETRIEVER: Patient and gentle with kids, they are well-mannered, loveable and smart. Training the Golden Retriever is fun because she will always want to please you. They seem to love everyone, even other dogs. Although they make good guard dogs, they are unlikely to attack anyone. The Golden Retriever is also a good hunting dog if that is part of the families activities. She's a swimmer, so if you have a backyard pool, you may want to keep it covered or you'll find her in it quite often if she has access.
KEESHOND: This is a dog with it's own lively personality. It's playful, smart and alert. Training needs to be gentle and consistent without much jerking about. He loves being a part of the family and joining in with any activities. So, it's nice if you can plan outings where he can be included. They are good watch dogs, but must be trained to make the initial warning and then stop. Keeshonds are known for spinning (chasing their tail). It just means he has too much bottled up energy. It should be a clue for one of the kids to take her for exercise or play.
LABRADOODLE: This breed is a mix of Labrador Retriever and Poodle. Although, not a pure bread, it does make a very attractive and good sized kid dog. Everyone knows that labs are good hunting or family dogs, but they are a little large for smaller children. The poodle can be more of a one-person dog and a bit timid. The mixture of the two breeds seems to create an excellent loyal and affectionate animal.
LABRADOR RETRIEVERS: Although they are great with kids, they can be a bit large for them to handle when walking on a leash or such activities if the children are younger. They are loving, patient and loyal dogs that love to play and swim. They also make good hunting, service and police dogs. Labrador Retrievers make good sledding and carting dogs.
PUG: What a charming personality this breed generally has. They are loyal, loving and affectionate, but also rambunctious and playful. They are very sensitive to the tone in the voice and so rarely need harsh training. They are good watchdogs without being yappers. They are good with kids.