10 Best Dog Breeds for Children – Let Us Help to Decide
“Can we have a dog? Can we? Please please please?!” Parents all over the world are probably familiar with this plea. At some point, most kids are desperate for a pet dog. But how to find the best dog breeds for children?
If you heed your children’s pleas and eventually decide to get a dog (always remember: a dog is for life, not just for Christmas), the next question is what kind of dog to get.
Best dog breeds for children
There are many factors that will help you choose the ideal dog for your family, such as how much time you have to look after one or how much space you have. However, you should also consider a dog breed known for being child friendly. Here are some of the top ten dog breeds that are great for kids.
Beagle
Beagles are loveable little guys, with huge soulful eyes and big personalities. Luckily all this personality fits nicely into a medium-sized dog that should make a great playmate for children. Beagles are active dogs, and taking your dog for walks or playing in the garden are both good ways of making sure your kids go outside to play and enjoy some fresh air. Although some Beagles can be irritable or nervous, we at newdoggy.com are able to help you find the perfect pup for your family.
Boston terrier
Playful, friendly, and easy to groom, the Boston Terrier is both lively and affectionate. The Boston Terrier is a small but sturdy little dog, making it a good companion for romps with the kids. Be warned: though affectionate, this little dog can be stubborn, but with careful handling and training it would make a great addition to the family.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Another small dog, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is sporty yet cuddly. The Cavalier loves comfort, whether that involves sitting on your lap or curling up on a soft cushion. But the Cavalier is just as happy outdoors, and needs a good walk every day, and ideally a fenced area to run around and play in. The Cavalier King Charles thrives on companionship, and if you have kids, should be happy to keep them company.
Cocker Spaniel
Here’s a medium-sized dog who loves the great outdoors just as much as relaxing on the sofa. The Cocker Spaniel was bred for hunting, but has an affectionate nature. Cocker Spaniels make great family dogs. Be sure to walk them regularly, and expect many trips to the groomer: Cockers have long silky fur that needs daily brushing and regular grooming sessions.
Dachshund
These little sausage dogs are clever, curious and courageous. The Dachshund is also a loyal family dog, although they can be stubborn and difficult (but not impossible) to train. The Dachshund is a better pet for older children, as they will find it easier to gently discipline the dog. Younger children may let this pint-sized pooch get away with anything.
English Bulldog
The English Bulldog is a loveable dog that is known to be great with kids. A medium sized dog, the Bulldog is sweet natured, loyal, and very sociable. Note that Bulldogs may sometimes be aggressive to unfamiliar dogs, due to their strong desire to protect their family. Bulldogs also don’t need much exercise – just a daily walk. The English Bulldog might not be the best dog for very active children, as they overheat very easily.
Golden Retriever
This large dog was originally bred to be a gun dog, but today is a popular family pet. Golden Retrievers are highly intelligent, easy to train, and friendly to kids. They are a great dog for an active family, as they need regular exercise to stay in good shape and to prevent them from becoming bored.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador is perhaps the quintessential family dog. This personable pooch is very popular as a pet, though was originally bred as a working dog. Labradors are friendly to almost everyone: adults, kids, dogs, and even other animals. They tend to be greedy, so keep your Labrador on a sensible diet and a good exercise routine – it’s a great way of getting your kids outdoors.
Pointer
Pointers were originally bred for hunting. They would help hunters locate game, pointing their entire body towards a duck or rabbit to help the hunter take aim. Although they are still used for hunting, Pointers are incredibly friendly dogs and make great pets. They are energetic, and will happily run beside you as you jog or cycle. The more exercise the better as far as a Pointer is concerned.
Scottish Terrier
Also called the Scottie, this terrier is small but sturdy. These little dogs are tough and determined, as they were originally bred to hunt vermin such as rats. Scottish Terriers are friendly and loyal, though they may take their time deciding to befriend someone. The Scottie will get along better with older children, as they dislike being prodded and poked, and may snap if irritated.
