Every adult who remembers their childhood dog fondly wishes for their children to have the same experience. The friendship between the children and their dogs is unlike any other. Although dogs and children can be the best of friends, not all dogs are appropriate for small children. We’ve put up this checklist of things to think about when selecting the best dog for your family and kids.
What characteristics distinguish a good family dog? You should think about your dog’s size, as well as your family’s lifestyle and the ideal energy level for your dog. The following four factors can help you choose a nice family dog, regardless of whether it is a purebred dog or a mutant dog:
Personality
It’s critical to pick a puppy that fits your parents’ personality and temperament when choosing the best dog for your family and kids that will be involved in any situation and spend a lot of time with every member of the family. Dogs can be friendly and laid-back, lively and energetic, or full of the endless energy of a new puppy, depending on the situation. What personality type will go well with your family?
You should look for someone with a good demeanor. A calmer dog, for example, is more likely to build strong ties with your child and be a fantastic friend.
Size
A dog’s size does not affect whether or not it is good with kids. Size, on the other hand, should be taken into account in terms of temperament and energy levels. Larger dogs are more docile, but smaller dogs are more energetic. If you have a family with tiny children, for example, a large, obese dog could accidentally knock them down.
You’ll want a little dog that fits in with the size of your home and yard, as well as the size of your family. Dogs come in many shapes and sizes, ranging from toys to small types to huge kinds. While certain smaller dog breeds may be frailer or prefer shorter walks, some medium to large dog types will relish the opportunity to go for a lengthy stroll or play in the backyard for hours.
Levels of Energy
This is a question of priorities for your family. Be honest with yourself about the lifestyle you can provide for a dog who requires more exercise than the usual dog. If you are unable to meet your dog’s demands, their excessive energy may result in behavioral issues. A lazy Basset Hound may not be the greatest option for a runner who enjoys running and is looking for a canine friend.
Dogs have the same range of energy levels as humans. Some people are extremely physically active and require a lot of mental and physical stimulation to keep their minds and bodies occupied (and out of trouble!). On a leisurely Sunday, others are happy to slumber at your feet. Choose the best dog for your family and kids whether you want a trekking companion or a more gentle and friendly puppy.
Requirements for Care
Love, attention, food, and regular veterinary care are all essential components of a happy life for any dog, but your potential dog has unique requirements. What kind of medical attention do you require? Grooming as well as any recognized health problems to the breed should be taken into account.
You’ll also want to know who feeds, walks, and trains the dog, as well as how well the breeds get along with kids – are they patient, loyal, and trainable? Answering these questions before going to a shelter or a pet store can give you a good idea of whether your family is ready for the duties of dog ownership and which breeds might be a good fit for your family.
Kids’ Favorite Family Dogs
Newfoundland
These gentle giants weigh 100 to 150 pounds, but don’t be fooled by their size; the Newfoundland is known as “Nature’s Babysitter,” and it is one of the most intelligent breeds in the world, with watchfulness, patience, and a sweet temperament. These dogs also happen to love children and are very protective of them.
This breed is nearly like the Mother Teresa of dogs, gentle, compassionate, and patient. This huge, incredibly lovely dog will soon win over both younger and older family members.
Despite their proclivity for drooling and excessive shedding, Newfoundlands are the best dog for your family and kids suited to a home with large, open spaces, and they should not be allowed to live in the yard (no dog should). Their lengthy coats will require frequent grooming and maintenance.
The Newfoundland is also a great swimmer who has been known to rescue people’s lives in an emergency. Because they are quickly trained and task-oriented, don’t be afraid to provide them stimulus that requires a little more effort.
Irish Setter
The Irish Setter, known for its red coat, is a cheerful and energetic dog who enjoys being around people and gets along well with youngsters.
These dogs are trainable, enjoy being around people, and are an excellent match for active children who require a lot of activity. To keep their longer coat appearing clean and shining, they’ll need to be groomed and brushed regularly.
This breed enjoys being with their family so much that they despise being alone, thus they’re at their best when they’re with their loved ones.
Beagle
Because of its small stature (they may easily be carried!) and calm temperament, the Beagle is an excellent breed for families.
Because of their muscular frame, Beagles were designed to be hunting dogs, and they are never too tired to play games. If your children enjoy being outside, this breed will suit in perfectly because nothing makes them happier than getting outside and exploring the paths.
The Beagle is a smart, happy dog that gets along with other animals in most cases (except for a bit of chasing here and there). Brushing and bathing are essential regularly since they are shed.
Mutt
Purebred dogs are wonderful, but mixed breeds combine the greatest characteristics of two or more wonderful breeds into one dog. Get to know a mutt and their unique personality and preferences, even if their lineage is a bit of a mystery. You might fall in love! Plus, adopting one gives you the wonderful sense of having a new best friend while also saving a dog’s life.
You can also learn more about the dog’s behavior by adopting. The personnel at the shelter or rescue organization spend their days caring for the dogs, so they can tell you all about a dog’s behavior and habits.
In terms of size, if the dog is a mutt and isn’t completely matured, you’ll have to make the best guess about their adult size.
Bulldog
Although the Bulldog is placid and tolerant, with plenty of affection to spare, it is better suited to indoor play. They get along nicely with other animals and would be ideal for a busy family living in a small apartment or a large home.
Most are also friendly to outside visitors and get along with other dogs, making them ideal for a busy, social home.
If you’re thinking of getting a Bulldog, bear in mind that their constricted jaw requires extra attention when it comes to dental cleaning, and wheezing, snoring, and drooling are all part of the package.
To avoid dirt buildup, the folds around their tail and face wrinkles will need to be cleaned. The trade-off is that their short coat will be easy to maintain.
Choosing the best dog for your family and kids should be a little bit easier now that you know a little bit about kid-friendly dogs.