what are the best dogs to have with young children?

Answer 1

Small ones! Only joking, depends on how they've been bred.
Spaniels are beautiful dogs & tend to have good temperatment and are not too big so not intimidating to a small child. Retrievers/labradors also have great personalities. Need to check the parents & how the dogs have been cared for though to check that they are likely to continue with a good temperament.

Answer 2

well non violent ones of course. Never never never a pit bull or similar dogs. These atacks are in the news a couple times a year and people are always defending this breed. I will not defend the breed. We grew up with dobermans in the 60s and they were very loving. We always had females. I do not think it would be a good idea today even though you could find a good one. Why not just get a really small dog and get a larger one when they get older? Labs are good and those red goofy dogs I cannot remember what they are called but they are very loving. I have heard poodles bite more than any other breed. Do not know if it is true.

Answer 3

None if the children are very young. Wait until they can care properly for the dog and then go for a gundog type as they are soft-mouthed and gentle plus very devoted. Any good pet shop or vet will advise you or visit the local Dogs Trust and see the ones longing for a home and they will be able to give you the advice you need.

Answer 4

I would 100% endorse the answer which recommended a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. The cavalier or King Charles is positively 'bomb proof' and therefore excellent with children. Although I have Yorkies myself, I wouldn't say they are your best choice because they need too much attention with grooming etc. Many of the smaller breeds such as Pomeranians and Chihuahuas are 'children' in themselves so, unless you want an entire kindergarten on your hands, avoid at all costs!

Go for the King Charles. You will need to pay attention to his ears and, perhaps, his eyes but, believe me, you will be making an excellent choice and your child will be safe.

Happy hunting!

Mo

Answer 5

As you can see, everyone's going to tell you their favourite breed! What you really need to do is find a breed you like, then research it. In general, very small dogs do not do well with very young children because the kids make the dogs nervous, which makes them nippy.

You also have to make sure your kids are taught right from day one how to treat a dog. When you decide on what breed you like, you need to make sure you get a dog from a reputable breeder and that you've seen the parents of the puppy so you know they have stable temperaments. After that, most breeds will get along with well behaved kids really well if they're raised with them.

It's best to stay away from very hyper breeds (like jack russells), very tiny dogs and also herding dogs who tend to chase anything small that runs (because that's their job).

Answer 6

any dog will take alot of time and comittment to train, so I'd be a bit careful as you may not have time with young children. The King Charles Cavaliers are superb little friendly, outgoing dogs, I would consider one of those. Definately not a herding or working dog, and gun dogs tend to have so much energy they need alot of walking and attention every day.

Answer 7

If you are thinking of getting a puppy always make sure you see how it interacts with the mother. A good puppy will interact well with her, and will have a more "soft" nature. From experiences with family and friends, I have not known a puppy to react badly to children.

Children of any age should be supervised at all times with any pet. Sometimes children can get a little rough with them ... and how would you react if you were having your ears pulled all the time? Just make the judgement call that's right for you.

Answer 8

Any dog must never be left alone with young children but from my experience staffordshire bull terriers are the best type around children - they are referred to as nanny dogs amongst a lot of dog trainers because of the way they are with children

Answer 9

I would go to the animal shelter, and talk to the people about your concerns. You can also go into more detail such as do you have a large area, or do you live in an apartment. You need to think about the needs of the dog also. You can find great pets at animal shelters and will be saveing a pet's life in the process.

Answer 10

Hi..I've done a lot of research and for kids one of the best small dogs is the bichon frise. But remember ALL kids need to be trained on how to handle the dogs and vice/versa.