Added: September 12, 2006
All kids want a dog! However, it is important to think about the age of your children as to when they get that dog. Small children (especially under six) you need to consider the size of your child and their unpredictable behavior. Also, the dog's behavior, for example, if you get a large, high-energy dog who could knock your child down easily. You could get a small dog that could easily be hurt unintentionally by your child.
If you have small children do you have time to take on a puppy and train him?
Parents should always supervise interaction between a dog and their children. Children need to be taught how to respectably treat a puppy.
Usually after seven years of age children are ready to have a dog to love and play with.
There are many breeds that are good with children. Learn the different characteristics of different breeds and decide what suits your child.
If you're not looking for a puppy consider finding a dog that has been raised with young children. Another option could be a young dog (a year or under) who is gently, not afraid of children, and look for his tail wagging when a child approaches him.
SOME BREEDS THAT ARE BELIEVED TO BE GOOD WITH CHILDREN ARE THE FOLLOWING:
LABRADOR RETRIEVER
Gentle breed with outgoing nature, very friendly, good for active families, needs lots of exercise,
loyal and devoted family member.
GOLDEN RETRIEVER
Highly intelligent, friendly, good-natured, even-temperament, good choice for families who
enjoy outdoors and needs lots of exercise.
STANDARD POODLE
Intelligent, makes excellent pets, playful, active, low shedding, love to play, faithful. Does come in
three sizes.
IRISH SETTER
Eager to please and a good companion.
BOSTON TERRIER
Loyal family pet for less active families, obedient and loyal.
COLLIES
Intelligent, patient, docile with children and has lots of energy.
BEAGLE
Great tracker and hunter, good for active families, cheerful, friendly and like to play games.
BICHON FRISE
Faithful, obedient, happy, needs regular grooming.
PUGS
Clown at heart, great family dog, playful, loyal and even-tempered.
BASSET HOUND
Calm, good companion, stubborn, loyal, sweet, friendly, gladly play with children.
SPRINGER SPANIEL
Playful, friendly, cheerful, intelligent, quick learner, obedient and good-natured.
JACK RUSSELL TERRIER
Intelligent, loyal, high-energy, good watchdog and friendly.
BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG
Patient, loving with family, loyal and intelligent.
STANDARD SCHNAUZER
Playful, active, loving and intelligent. Does come in three sizes. Requires regular grooming.
NEWFOUNDLAND
Called the "Gentle Giant", sweet temperament, protective of children, smart, loyal and calm.
BULLDOG
Affectionate, dependable, gentle with children and a good guard dog.
BOXER
Friendly, sweet, playful, good for busy active families and patient with children.
Even if a breed is suppose to be good with children there are always exceptions.
Remember dogs need to be trained and socializated.
This is a site basically about small dog breeds but I have listed bigger dogs for children if that is what you want. Good luck in finding the perfect dog for you.
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