| There is much speculation about which dog | | | | - Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever: These |
| breeds are the best for families with young | | | | breeds are smart and usually do well with children, |
| children. There is no definitive answer to this | | | | but if they do not get enough exercise they can |
| question. Almost any type of dog has the | | | | become very hyperactive. |
| potential to do well will kids. Each dog has its own | | | | - Poodle: Poodles are extremely intelligent and |
| unique personality and you never know exactly | | | | usually have a good temperament. They also |
| how they will turn out. Many factors go into | | | | come in all sizes from toy to standard. |
| determining a dog's ability to mesh well with | | | | - Bichon Frise: This breed enjoys playing but is not |
| children. Here are some things to keep in mind | | | | too hyper. They are small dogs that may be just |
| when searching for a family dog. | | | | the right size for your children. |
| Training | | | | - Beagle: This breed is suitable for children due to |
| Make sure there is a family member in the house | | | | their relatively small size, friendliness and |
| who can devote a good bit of time to training | | | | intelligence. Some Beagles may have a tendency |
| your new dog. Initial obedience training is essential | | | | to be high-strung but they usually respond well to |
| for any dog that will be exposed to children. If | | | | training. |
| your kids want to be involved in training, make | | | | - Cairn Terrier: This breed is known for having a |
| sure an adult is supervising at all times. Also, be | | | | natural affinity for children. They are gentle, |
| sure that your children are instructed on how to | | | | tolerant and have the ability to keep up with |
| behave around the dog, as well as on how to help | | | | active kids. |
| care for him. | | | | - Collie and Shetland Sheepdog: These are gentle, |
| Age and Size | | | | tolerant and calm dogs that usually do will with |
| Take your children's ages and activity levels into | | | | kids of all ages. |
| consideration. A large, awkward puppy does not | | | | - German Shepherd: This breed absolutely must |
| know his own size and may knock over a toddler. | | | | be well-trained but is loyal and protective. German |
| Smaller dogs may accidently be stepped on by | | | | Shepherds have a playful side that kids enjoy. |
| bigger children if they are not careful. Since | | | | - Mixed Breeds: Mixed breed dogs are often |
| puppies require a lot of extra attention, getting an | | | | intelligent and well-balanced. |
| adult dog that behaves well around children may | | | | Where To Find A Family Dog |
| be a good choice for your family. | | | | A good place to start looking for a family dog is |
| Personality | | | | at your local rescue group. Rescue dogs have |
| The best dog for a family with children will have a | | | | usually been fostered by a family who can tell |
| good temperament, a high level of intelligence and | | | | you a lot about their personality and |
| a moderate level of energy. Some breeds are | | | | temperament. If you're looking for a purebred |
| naturally good with children. Here is a quick | | | | dog, the best place to begin your search is with a |
| overview of dog breeds that have a reputation | | | | reputable breed-specific rescue or breeder. |
| for being good with kids: | | | | |