Which dog would be best for our family?

Question

we have three kids and a cat. want a dog that is good with both but not sure what breed to look at...........

my children are 8 10 & 11 yrs

Answer 1

Every one here is going to tell the breed of dog they have is the best dog for kids, well a lot of them are wrong. You need to research the many different breeds and make an educated decision on what you think is the best breed for you and your families lifesyle. AKC has a web site with descriptions of all recognized breeds of dog. AKC.org You could also read a few books like Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds, or Idiots Guide to Chosing, Buying and Raising a Dog.

If properly trained and embraced as a beloved member of the family, any breed can make a great pet. With that said, some dogs are seen as more “kid-friendly” than others and, as a result, have become extremely popular among families. According to the AKC, the five most popular breeds in the United States are:

Labrador Retrievers are by far America’s most popular dog—more than 140,000 Lab puppies were registered last year with the AKC—and have a reputation for being playful, hardworking and affectionate toward children. The Lab is easily trained and is highly respected for his prowess at many jobs: as a guide dog for the disabled, a search-and-rescue dog, and for narcotics detection.

Golden Retrievers are sporty, easy to train and strong, but their most outstanding trait is character. They are outgoing and devoted companions to people of all ages, happy and trusting. They make great hunting companions, too.

German Shepherd are noble in appearence and character. This breed's courage, steadfast heart, and keen senses have endeared him to families for generations. Active and outdoorsy, German Shepherds are very fond of children and make wonderful companions.

Beagles love being around people and other animals. They are gentle, happy companions who thrive on affection and attention. They are also clever, quick, and, most of all curious. They need plenty of active exercise.

Dachshund has a lively, upbeat personality—spunky, curious and friendly. Originally bred to hunt badgers, Dachshund’s love to dig, romp and run. They are affectionate, especially with children, and enjoy going for walks and other forms of exercise

You should do your research before you bring any animal into your home. If breed is not an issue you could always adopt a pup from your local pound or shelter. They come spayed or neutered, up to date on vaccinations and you can find all ages, sizes and breeds. As I stated in the beginning any dog can be good with children it is a matter of how the are trained and socialized. Small children should never be left alone with dogs.

Answer 2

At Crufts there is an exhibition called "discover dogs" where there are loads of different breeds on show. You can go round and ask the owner questions (this is very useful as they have loads of experience with that breed of dog) and look at the different types of dogs available (too see whether you like the look of it).

This is from crufts website:

Discover Dogs

"This area is the most popular area of the show with over 180 different breeds and expert owners to meet. If you're not sure which breed is right for you, this area is a must."

You may also want to consider that some dogs are very noisy and bark constantly for no reason, stay away from these if you want any sleep at night. The chance of a dog doing this SOMETIMES depends on the breed such as Jack Russels (and other small dogs). Cross breeds sometimes don't have these characteristics I know someone with a cross between a Jack Russel and a springer spaniel who is lovely and not at all yappy.

Answer 3

had same dillema many moons ago went to web site specifically aimed at helping you choose the right breed for your circumstances (sos can't rememeber the link) I had 4 young kids 1 with autistim so it was paramount we got the correct choice after answering numerous multichoice questions the 2 breeds that were suited to families with young kids were the Maltese terrrier & the staffordshirebull terrier. We opted for the latter & ended up 7 years later with 3!!!! the Staffie is also known as a mothers nursemaid are FANTASTIC with kids and are immensely loyal and great fun the only downside is they are not good with other dogs. hope dis helps.

Answer 4

Personally I love Labradors and King Charles Spaniels but only you will really know what sort of dog will fit into your life style best. I am sure most breeds are dogs are good just have to bring them them up right with everyone in the family.

Good luck hope you find the one you want.

Answer 5

Forget about breed for a minute. All dogs, no matter if they are the same breed, all have different personalities and temperament. Write down the qualities you want and start looking. Check out the classified ads on Petfinder.com in your state..there are always dogs that need new homes.

Answer 6

at first, her allergies are probable making her very uncomfortable. have you ever considered changing her nutrition? maximum commercial style ingredients have a lot of grains in them, that are a normal allergen for canines. This difficulty must be less difficult to sparkling up than you think of. It truly sounds like this dogs basically needs some education. i'll think of that she became your dogs, earlier you and your husband have been given married? He prevalent her into the family, basically as you prevalent his babies. it is arbitrary for him to ask you to get rid of her. have you ever considered obedience education? that's something that the full family can do mutually, great high quality/bonding time for each individual, which incorporate the dogs. you need to discover a stable coach on your section, examine in for classes, and take the full family with you. watching the newborn's an prolonged time, the instructor ought to work out it suitable that they take turns coping with the dogs at school, too. all people ought to a minimum of be there to reveal screen the techniques, so as that all people might properly be consistent at homestead. shop the dogs. And tell your husband that he's being thoroughly unreasonable with the "me or the dogs" factor, it is so immature.

Answer 7

A kind playfull dog like a Golden Retreiver. But get a mix from a pound they usually have more exspierance with kids. Also if you get a more older dog and not a hipper puppy your cat will be more happy because hipper puppies are knon to "chase" cats and the older dog will be happy to because people will buy puppies like "snap" but hardly anyone wants a old dog. Old dogs are more likely to be potty trained and better with kids.

Answer 8

Breed doesn't indicate that the dog will go well with cats. It depends on the individual dog.

Get a dog from the animal shelter that has been temperament tested and shown to go well with cats.

Answer 9

A saint Bernard is a good choice. The cat can outrun it; The kids can ride it like a horse; and you'll never need to lick your own letters, just use the dog's drivel. Also, they make wonderful comforters when sleeping on your bed.

Answer 10

People atomatically say labrador but look at kc top biters list(i forget the actual term they use) and labs are the in top ten of the breeds most likely to bite.
whatever you do dont choose a grayhound/lurcher type..not with a cat there!