by Brenda Nelson

Created on: April 27, 2009

There are several hundred dog breeds throughout the world. Some are more available in some areas of the world than are others. Determining which breed is the best pet because different breeds work best for different types of people according to what they expect and want out of a pet.

-Dogs for Families-

If you have children a main concern is safety of the dog in relationship to the child. The secondary concern is the safety of the child in relationship to a dog. Sure a small dog might not do as much damage if they bite a child, but a young child can easily break a small dogs back by mishandling it.

On the whole, the "Soft-Mouthed" retrieving breeds are often considered gentle and patient with children. Not withstanding though if a person ever says "My dog is so gentle it lets my kids pull its ears and it doesn't even flinch." it does not mean they have a good dog, it simply implies they have horrible children.

It must be noted that the best dogs for families are ones who are socialized, well trained, obedient, and not-mishandled. The best families for dogs are ones who have time to devote to training the dog, not who simply consider it an object to play with occasionally.

Suggested Breeds: Boxer, Bulldog, Corgi, Golden Retriever, Pug, Shih Tzu.

Avoid: Terriers, they tend to be active and mouth aggressive as they were bred for hunting. Intelligent/ Herding type breeds, unless you have a lot of time to devote to them, they will be a disaster. Spitz breeds are also not known for tolerating young children well. Small and delicate breeds such as the Chihuahua and dachshund should be avoided out of risk of injury to the dog.

-Dogs for People who have other Pets-

Some breeds of dogs are known to be aggressive towards cats. Other breeds are known to use your other pets simply as a form of entertainment.

Suggested Breeds: Boxers, Retrievers, Great Pyrenees , Bernese Mountain Dog, most Toy Breeds.

Avoid: Huskies, if not raised with cats, they are notorious for killing them. Terriers, again any dog bred to hunt might chase your cat or smaller pets. Sight Hounds will go after cats and smaller pets. Herding dogs if not provided with a job, will find one, and that may be chasing your other pets.

-Dogs for Seniors-

Seniors enjoy the company of pets, it makes them feel good to have something to love and talk to. For some seniors the pet is a reason to get out of bed and go for a walk. Because seniors have fragile bodies and skin it is important that the dog be gentle. Often the best dog

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