Which dog breeds are best with children: playful and affectionate

Almost all parents at least once in their lives hear from their child two cherished words: "I want a dog". Often after that, the search for an animal that would be a good companion for the whole family begins. But the question of what breed of dog is best suited for a child remains at the top of the list.

PetMD has compiled their top 10 breeds that are good with kids. For advice, they turned to Holly Putnam, a doctor of veterinary medicine and former board member of the Shelter Veterinarians Association. She put together a guide on how to choose the right dog, how to introduce a dog to the family and developed a list of breeds.

What are the criteria for choosing a dog for a family

In fact, breed is not the key indicator. Even within the same litter, animals can have very different personalities. Therefore, Dr. Putnam advises not to give up the idea of taking in a shelter a mongrel dog. And when choosing a future friend, you should pay attention to three such indicators.

Temperament

Choose an animal that you like for its personality. Calm dogs form stronger bonds, while an active animal that is interested in everything and wants to be involved in everything will make a good companion for a little bully. So decide in advance what personality traits you want to see in your pet.

Size

Size alone does not indicate whether a dog will treat children well or poorly. However, it is important when considering the living conditions. A very large dog will not do well in a city apartment and this may not be good for his character, which will frighten the baby. Although, as a rule, it is large breeds are very obedient.

Energy level

Some breeds like to run and jump a lot. Such dogs are unlikely to suit people who prefer passive recreation and leisurely walks, as well as phlegmatic children. Conversely, calm dogs will not make good company for those who like to jog in nature.

How to choose a dog

You should not take in a pet on first impression. It may be overexcited about the new acquaintance and behave atypically. Therefore, it is best to meet and walk the dog several times before making a final decision.

Come to meet the whole family and observe how the dog will react to each member of the family. Pay attention to his body language. Does the dog approach you and your family by wagging his tail or body, or does he hide in the corner of the room?

Take a closer look at how willing the dog is to play and share his toys with your family. Some animals are very jealous of things they consider their own and may react aggressively to an attempt to take them away. This can become quite dangerous if a small child tries to take an interest in the dog's toys or bowls.

5 questions to ask when choosing a family dog

Don't hesitate to ask these questions of breeders or staff at the shelter. They can help you quickly get a clear picture of a particular animal.

Is the dog safe for all family members? Some dogs are willing to socialize with all members of the family equally, while others gravitate toward only adults or members of the same sex. And some choose one owner and don't socialize with the rest.

What is a dog's energy level? It's up to you whether you want a dog that will accompany you and your family on long walks or a dog that can be carried around freely.

What kind of ongoing care will a dog need? Fluffy animals need combing, mud diggers need frequent baths, and if you decide on an older animal, it will need regular vet visits.

What age range are you looking for? It's easier to teach a puppy everything you want in a dog, but as they get older they'll probably trash your house more than once. He'll make fast friends with everyone in the family, though. An adult dog can do a lot of things on his own, but he can take a long time to get used to a new family and may be reluctant to change old habits.

Will this dog get along with other pets? If you have other furry pets in your home, you should choose a dog that has shown itself to be pet-friendly. Also, make sure that the animals already living with you are ready for this addition to their pack.

The top ten breeds that would be best for a family with children

Even though these breeds are considered ideal for coexistence with children, you will still need to look closely at your particular animal. To do so, use the tips above. And here are the top 10 dog breeds for families that will be favorable to children in terms of key characteristics.

Mongrel

Pedigree dogs and breed mixes often combine the best traits of their parents. They are often intelligent, kind and sociable. Plus, you can get a lot of information about the dog's personality from the staff at the shelter where you're getting the dog from. You can also come in for a pre-shelter introduction as many times as you like - the staff will only thank you for helping them walk the dog.

Golden Retriever

Regardless of temperament (active or calm) Golden Retrievers are characterized by extraordinary patience. Such a dog will react calmly while even a small child will stick his fingers in his eyes and mouth and bite his tail. Children adore these big gentlemen. But note that this breed needs to devote quite a lot of time to exercises and games, as well as regularly comb out the hair.

Labrador Retriever

It is not without reason that this breed is considered one of the most popular in the world. These dogs are intelligent, loyal, loving, caring and reliable. They are obedient and hardy, friendly and easy to train. In short, the perfect babysitters. But Labradors need a lot of exercise, in particular, they love to swim. Therefore, calculate your strength, taking such a pet in the family.

Poodle

In addition to their keen canine intelligence, Poodles are also endowed with gentleness and patience. They will keep negative emotions like irritation or boredom to themselves to the last. Poodles come in a variety of sizes, so you can easily find the perfect friend who will be comfortable in your home. Also, this breed does not shed much, so it will suit a child prone to allergies.

Irish Setter

This dog will enthusiastically play with your children all day long - running, jumping, manipulating different objects. It is an active and energetic breed. Irish Setters do not like loneliness, so they will be happy to look after the kids. They easily get along with new people and are very sociable. But such a dog will need a lot of time for quality walking and careful care of the coat.

Vizsla

This is not a very common breed, and for nothing - it is impeccable for families with teenagers. Thanks to their gentle character, loyalty and affection, they are a good influence on children during the most nervous period of their growth. Vizslas are strongly attached to all members of the family and a lonely teenager will be able to find a soul mate in such a dog. The breed doesn't need any complicated care, but it does need a lot of movement and exercise.

Newfoundland

These good-natured giants are natural babysitters. They will uncomplainingly tolerate everything that children will do to them, even if it borders on bullying. At the same time, Newfoundland will not give offense to anyone his little master. Dogs of this breed love to swim and quickly learn the skills of rescue on the water, so this dog will be a great companion to the child, whom you want to accustom to water. From the minuses - in a city apartment Newfoundland will be very cramped, they also drool and shed heavily. But it is simply impossible not to fall in love with this kind and intelligent dog.

Bull Terrier

This breed is considered aggressive and this is a huge injustice. Bull Terriers were bred as companion dogs, so they have a sociable character and love adults and children. Such a friend is suitable for a very active child, because Bull Terriers need a lot of movement, games and exercises, so that they do not start to do mischief out of boredom. At the same time, they will gladly give tenderness to their people. Plus it is easy enough to care for them and they lend themselves well to training.

Beagle

It is a compact dog that has a calm temperament and loves outdoor play. Beagles get along well with children and other pets. They will be happy to walk with a child, because they love to explore everything around them and will be happy to have company during their explorations. They are a strong and hardy dog, while being able to be focused and submissive. Beagles need regular combing as they shed.

Bulldog

The devotion and patience of all types of bulldogs is legendary. They are very affectionate with children and yet quite cautious, because they are not the most active among dogs. Even in a large family with many kids and other animals, the bulldog will take root and take its place. They are social, so they will be happy to have guests. And they will be comfortable in a house of any size. From the specific care bulldogs need bathing, because in the folds of their skin accumulates dirt, and separate attention to the teeth.

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