Best dogs for kids

Wednesday May 27th, 2009

Question:

My kids are still young but we'd like to get a dog. Which breeds are best with children?

Answer:

Breeds were created by humans for the express purpose of accomplishing certain tasks: sporting dogs retrieve game, herding dogs corral sheep, and working dogs guard the house.

With kids in the house, it's generally better to select a type of dog bred to live and work closely with people, such as sporting or companion dogs. I know firsthand the joy of Golden Retrievers and retired racing Greyhounds, but Boston Terriers, Labradors, King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds, and Poodles, just to mention a few, are great dogs as well.

Other factors to consider are care and maintenance. The Greyhound requires minimal coat care, while the Poodle (standard or otherwise) needs a lot of grooming. Poodles, however, don't shed, are extremely intelligent, and an excellent choice for people with allergies.

Before you think about breeds, however, the more fundamental question to ask yourself is, "Do I personally have the time to train a dog and supervise her around my children?" (See Are you ready for a dog?).

Getting a dog is a huge responsibility--especially if you have children. In many circumstances, I suggest waiting until your kids are at least five years of age before bringing home a dog.

Jim Burwell is one of Houston’s most well-known dog trainers, whose at-home dog training process, The Burwell Method, is the result of 20 years of experience.

Tags Breeds General, Choosing A Purebred Puppy, Choosing A Shelter Dog, Choosing A Shelter Puppy, Companion Dogs, Dog Adoption, Dog Behavior, Finding A Good Dog Breeder, Sporting Dogs

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	I'm looking for a small dog that will be able to handle active kids on end side of the spectrum, and quiet down time on the other when we are at work and school without getting too wrought. Any suggestions? I'm thinking a maltese mix but the dog breed directory says that they don't do well alone. over 1 year ago by Anonymous
	First of all, all dogs have dander. The idea of a hypoallergenic dog is a myth. In terms of best breed for temperament around kids - it completely depends on the individual dog. Any rescue mutt has the potential to be as good with kids as the purebreds listed. With SO MANY unwanted and abandoned dogs in the world it continues to perplex me as to how many people perpetuate this problem by buying purebreds by somebody actually purposely creating more dogs in order to make a profit. I find this so sad and quite frankly very selfish. Do the right thing, and rescue a dog in need. over 1 year ago by Anonymous
	Dachshunds? They are very sensative about being picked up or moved in certain ways given their odd shape. All the dachshunds my grandparents had snapped (and one use to bite) adults as well as children, I would NOT recommend a Dachshund to anyone with a child. Poodles I am on the fense about. The other I believe are good choices. I've know people with Golden Retrievers and even had a Lab-mix myself. All the ones I've know have been awsome with children and babies. almost 2 years ago by Anonymous
	I think Poodles make and Malteses make great pets! If you love and treat a Pet with respect, they will love and treat you with respect back. Children also must be taught to treat pets with respect and not to abuse them or mishandle them. They are NOT a toy. Parents have to be responsible and teach their children how to handle a Pet. This is very very important. I had a Poodle named BOBO whom I got when my daughter was 7 yrs. old. She never took care of him, but she loved him dearly. Children learn from their Parents. almost 2 years ago by Anonymous

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