Child friendly dogs - and dogs to avoid when you have smaller children

When you decide to get a dog and have children in your family remember that the age of the children is an important factor. Certain breeds are believed to mix better with children than others but keep in mind that the personality of the dog, and not necessarily the breed is the most important factor. The dog’s personality should match your child’s personality. For a quiet, calm child choose a rather quiet dog and not necessarily a Terrier that needs lots of playtime and exercise. Listen to the shelter staff, veterinarian or the breeder’s advice when discussing a specific animal. Inform them, or better bring your child/children with you so a professional can evaluate the situation.

Size: small size does not mean that the dog will be friendly to your child. Smaller dogs are easier intimidated than larger animals, they can get hurt easier and their only weapon of defense is their teeth. Sometimes larger dogs are gentler than toy dogs.

Training: Every dog should be trained. If there are children in the household, proper training is absolutely required. If you don’t have the time/patience/knowledge, have your animal trained by a professional.

Never leave a dog alone with a baby or a toddler. Monitor the interaction between your children and your dog carefully. Sometimes animals get too excited when playing with children. Children are often unaware of their strength and can hurt the animal. Stepping on the animal’s paws, tumble over it, etc. can make the most gentle animal turn angry and probably bite.

Puppies are sweet and adorable but please do consider that a sweet puppy might not turn into the dog you wish for. Try to choose an adult dog where you can already watch the kind of personality the animal has.

Golden Retriever, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, West Highland Terrier, Irish Setter, Schnauzer, Labrador Retriever, Poodle, Dachshund, Bichon Frise, Airedale, Basset, Beagle, Shih Tzu, Boxer, Cairn Terrier, Collie, Boston Terrier, Newfoundland, Pomeranian, Pug, Whippet.

Affenpinscher, Chihuahua, Pekingese, Basenji, Dalmatian, Rottweiler, German and Australian Shepherds, Dobermans, Jack Russel Terriers, Lhasa Apso, Afghan, Akita, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Chow Chow, Borzoi, Puli, ShiTzu, Yorkshire Terrier, Barsoi, Basenji, Beagle, Bloodhound, Siberian Husky, Afghan, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Setters, Samoyed, Weimaraner, Greyhound, Saluki, Irish Wolfhound, Pitbulls.