All the things I wish I knew before I got my first ever puppy!
Have a young family? Or planning to have one soon? There are so many dog breeds that work well with children, and by work well with children, I mean they tend to have a gentle, friendly demeanour, a tonne of patience and are easily trainable. There is such a wide range of breeds that get on with children that it’s essential that you look into your lifestyle and situation to narrow your choice down to the right breed all round. Below are 10 of the best dog breeds for families with young children.
1. LABRADOR/GOLDEN RETRIEVER
Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are two of the most popular large breed family pets in the world. They are easy going, obedient and loyal, and as such are often used as service dogs. They get on wonderfully with children and other animals, although they do need a fair bit of exercise. Also it worth noting that due to their size, if you have very young children they could easily get unintentionally knocked over- especially by an older puppy.
2. BICHON FRISE
If you’re looking for a perfect family pet, consider a Bichon Frise. They have an affectionate and gentle nature and LOVE to play. They also don’t shed unlike some other breeds, which could mean they are more suitable for some people with allergies. Due to their tiny size as a puppy, if you do choose this breed and have young children it is vital that you supervise them around the dog.
3. POODLE
Although they are quite high maintenance dogs, needing grooming every 6-8 weeks and a lot of both physical and mental stimulation. Poodles are one of the most intelligent and laid back breeds. There are 3 types, a standard Poodle, a miniature poodle and a toy poodle. Standard Poodle’s are more highly recommended for families with small children.
4. CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL
Classed as a toy breed, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel have a naturally gentle disposition and although hunters by nature, they are just as happy napping on their owners lap. They do not need excessive exercise making them a good choice for the elderly or those with limited mobility.
5. BASSET HOUND
The Basset Hound is one of the most easy going dogs out there. They are extremely adaptable and an ideal pet for children, elderly and people with limited mobility alike.
6. BULLDOG
Bulldogs come in several different varieties, some of the most common been the French and English Bulldogs. Despite their grumpy expressions they are actually one of the friendliness and playful dogs, and perfect for children and elderly. They get on well with other dogs and pets and don’t need masses of exercise.
7. PUG
Originating from China, these little dogs have BIG personalities. They crave affection from their owners and often follow them around. They are extremely adaptable and can easily live in apartments and urban areas. They have grown massively in popularity over the past 10 years, and like the other breeds on this list, are great with kids.
8. BEAGLE
Originally bred in England as a hunting dog, Beagles are a small to medium size breed which although love to have a good sniff around, are one of the most gentle natured dogs around. Beagles love nothing more than living in a family environment and are excellent with children.
9. NEWFOUNDLAND
Ever watched Peter Pan? Remember Nana the dog who looked after the children? Well she was a Newfoundland! Despite their imposing size, this breed is a real gentle giant in the dog world! They are extremely calm and docile and are even known as rescue and life saving dogs due to their bravery. Obviously though, due to their size they are well suited to larger homes with more space.
10. COLLIE
Perfect for pet owners with larger homes with plenty of space, these loyal dogs are exceptionally protective over small children and are always eager to play and learn. They are extremely active dogs and need a lot of exercise, if they are not adequately worked they can become destructive.
