Dog Breeds for Families Series: Pros and Cons

There are a lot of different breeds of dogs in the world. They come in many sizes, colors, and very importantly they come in a range of temperaments. When a family is looking for a dog, a lot of things pertaining to the attribute of the pet will be important to them. Many parents and children have specific ideas about what color and type of appearance they want in a dog, they may even have already picked out a few names that might work for their new pet. But there are even more important things for parents with small children to focus on when searching for their new animal family member.

Size

Size definitely matters when a family with small children is looking into getting a dog for their pet. There are some dogs that may be dangerous for toddles and other small children just because they are large. These dogs may be well trained and have a great personality but because they are big little kids can get hurt. Dogs that are fun, have a lot of energy, and are big can frequently run into children or knock them down. These incidences could all be accidental, but hazardous for a small child if they fall into a sharp or rough surface or even get stepped on by the pet.

Dogs such as Alaskan Malamutes, German Shepherds, St. Bernards, Chow Chows, and Great Danes can all be trained to be family pets. Though they are all beautiful breeds, they are definitely not recommended for families with small children even if they are well trained and socialized properly. They are just too big to be trusted with small children.

It may be easier to see why having a large dog with small children is a bad option, but it may not be any better for small children to have a small dog either. There can be dangers for both the dog and the child with this combination. Small dogs are more fragile than large dogs and can actually be hurt by the accidental roughness of small children just trying to play with their pet. On the other hand, small dogs may not have the patience for a loud or active child. Smaller breeds can nip at children when they grow impatient of their behavior.

Chihuahuas are the smallest breed of dog in the world. They are very fragile, but they are also very jealous of human relationships making them a small dog that families with small children should not get. Some Dachshunds can be friendly toward children, but temperaments can vary widely from dog to dog in this breed. They, too, are pretty delicate and need to be treated carefully.

Temperament

Temperament is perhaps one of the most important things parents with small children should be concerned about when choosing a breed of dog for their family. Some dogs have a lot of energy, maybe a bit too much for small children. Other breeds don't have the patience to deal with the clumsiness of little kids and may become a little aggressive. There are also breeds of dogs that can be very territorial when it comes to their food, sleeping areas, toys, etc. This can be a danger if they feel that their territory is being challenged.

Irish Setters and Jack Russell Terriers may be a little to active and rambunctious for small children. Jack Russells aren't very patient with children and are also known for returning accidental injustices with aggression. Dalmatians and Yorkshire Terriers can be quite territorial and may not be very happy with small children if they feel their territory is threatened.

Origin and Training

Though they may not be performing the type of work they once did, many dogs were originally bred to do specific jobs. Hunting, herding, and guarding are among some of the popular past "occupations" of today's family pets. Proper training and socializing need to be started at an early age to help a dog learn that its new job is to live with people and be their pet. All dogs need to know the limits and rules they need to live by. This is especially important when the family has small children. If a dog has not been trained properly it might be a smart decision for the family to look for another dog. Getting a dog that has been trained and socialized correctly, or getting a puppy and making sure that it is trained well would be a better decision for families with small children. Also, getting a dog that is easier to train could be better as a family dog.

Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers are very intelligent dogs. They are very easy to train and love children. Collies and Standard Poodles also do very well with training. They learn quickly and are patient and loving toward kids.

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