Dogs and kids can be a wonderful combination, and while it isn’t a good idea to leave any dog with a kid unsupervised, they definitely can be the best of friends and look just adorable together. Some kids can be a little too rough with animals so if you are thinking of introducing any kind of pet into the family you need to be confident that you can always keep an eye on things and that your child will be able to learn how to safely interact with animals.
Choosing the right dog breed is key to ensuring harmony in a home with pets and children. Not only are some dogs more prone to being nervous around kids, some breeds are so high energy that the dog and the child can end up encouraging each other to misbehave. While you want a dog that is going to be chilled enough to roll with the punches of family life, you also want one that is going to be able to keep up with the pace of your lifestyle.
There are so many different dog breeds to choose from that you will be able to find the perfect new friend for your growing family. Whether you have kids now or are planning on having them in the near future, you need to consider how the arrival of a baby will affect your dog. Some breeds will cope with this kind of change more easily than others, but every dog is an individual so it’s important to vet any puppies carefully and talk to the breeder about the temperament of the parents.
Labrador retrievers
The lab has been one of if not the most popular family dog breed in the world for decades. They are big lovable goofballs that are great at matching the energy in a room. They are happy to go for long walks, play fetch and chase for hours in the back garden, and will love to come for a cuddle on the sofa at the end of a long, fun-filled day. Labradors are generally very gentle with kids, but will need close supervision because of their big, bouncy nature and larger than life personalities. Use a dog training clicker to help curb the more compulsive, food-driven side of the labs’ personality.
Newfoundland dogs
A gentle giant that looks rather bearlike, the Newfoundland is also affectionately called the ‘newfie’ by people who love the breed. And there certainly is a lot to love about the newfie! They are sweet dogs that are dedicated to their families, and are particularly protective of the kids in their families. These intelligent dogs seem to instinctively understand that kids are more vulnerable than adults, and so are known for their patience and gentle nature.
Beagles
The beagle is a small to medium sized dog that is known for its brains. They are very smart animals who live to please their owners and they are fantastic family pets for households with kids. The beagle tends to have a calm, patient nature so will generally be happy to hang out with the kids at home or out and about on an adventure. Sturdily built, energetic, and small enough to be carried if need be, the beagle will fit well into most families’ lives.
Poodles
A less common but excellent choice for a family dog is the poodle. The poodle comes in three sizes; standard, miniature and toy. Standard poodles are the original form and they were bred as working dogs. As such they are highly intelligent and energetic so will thrive when given an outlet for their energy and brainpower. The poodle is the perfect family dog for households with allergy sufferers because they are hypoallergenic due to their lack of dander production.
Golden retrievers
SImilar to the labrador in looks, size and temperament but with magnificent feathering on their ears, chests, stomachs, legs and tails, goldens are a firm family favourite. Known for their gentle, loving nature and easygoing personality, a golden retriever will be just as happy relaxing at home as they are taking part in advanced obedience training, scent work, intense games of fetch, and pretty much anything life can throw at them.