BEST DOGS FOR CHILDREN
You've decided to get the kids a dog. Great! Now it is important to find the best
dogs for children. There are many things to consider. We'll help you with the
information you need to make the best choice.
First, make sure you are getting the dog for the right
reasons. Consider the following before moving forward:
- Don't get a dog to teach the kids responsibility. The dog deserves an owner that is already
responsible, not one that is learning on him.
- Don't get a dog simply because the kids have "worn you down."
Remember who will most likely
end up as the caregiver for the dog!
Okay, so you've decided that you are getting a dog for all the right reasons. But how do you
determine which are the best dogs for children? There is no clear-cut fool-proof answer to that but
armed with the right facts, you will be on the right path to a good choice.
 Although some breeds are known to usually be good dog breeds
for children, each individual dog will need to be evaluated on it's own. Consider the following:
Good Dog
Breeds for Small Children
Larger dogs can easily knock into a smaller child, pushing
them to the ground. Though most kids will simply get back up, ready for more, some children will
become frightened by this doggy enthusiasm.
On a similar note, small dogs can be injured when a rough and tumble child falls onto them.
Try to match the size and energy level of the dog to your child. 
Adopt a
Puppy for Children
Can there be anything cuter than a puppy? YES, a puppy and kids, romping, rolling, running and
playing together. But, puppies are also usually rambunctious, untrained and time consuming. Do you
have the time to devote to obedience training and housebreaking? Are you prepared for the possibility
of chewed furniture and shoes?
 Puppies are best suited to households where adults are home
most of the day to see to their needs. Raising your kids and dog together is a neat experience
and can create a strong loving bond between child and dog as long as the parents have the extra time
to devote.
Adopt an Adult Dog for Your Children
Consider an adult dog also. Many of
these more mature dogs have had some training, perhaps have previously lived with a child and have come
through some of the rambunctious stage. They are usually calmer than a puppy and their temperament has
already been established.
Temperament and
Personality
Opt for a laid back attitude when selecting your new
dog. Some dogs are okay with anything and adjust well to whenever the kids want to play, run,
bounce and jump. They may think it is great fun when their kid uses his doggy body for a toy
truck ramp. Other dogs only want to play on their own terms and some dogs can be down-right
irritated when the children of the house interrupt a doggy nap. (HINT: This later type may be better
in a childless or older child home.)
Best dogs for children need to be ready (although maybe not thrilled) to participate in tea parties,
dress-up and maybe even some nail painting sessions.
Kid's dogs should have lots of energy to withstand hours of play. In short, the best dog for children
needs to be a superdog because he'll have the awesome responsibility
of being a super best friend to the best kid in the world, YOURS!
Although there are many popular dogs that are known to be good dog breeds for children, everyone has their
own idea on child friendly dog breeds..
We'd love to here about your best dog for
children.
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