Owning a dog is a huge responsibility, therefore the decision to buy or adopt one should be well thought out. It is certain that there is no ideal dog for everyone, but one can find the perfect dog for themselves and their family! The choice of a dog that will be the best friend of a child must depend not only on the appearance and beautiful condition of the animal but, above all, on its character and predispositions to certain behaviors – which are shaped by both the origins of the breed and the upbringing of the dog.
Best Dogs Friendly to Children?
Every child goes through a period of wanting a pet, and most often this choice falls on a dog. These animals teach responsibility and enhance communication skills. Thanks to a dog, a child has motivation to move, which is extremely important in today’s times.
A small child dreams of petting and cuddling a small breed dog, however, in the case of older children, it is often a desire for large or even giant dogs. Is this the right way to choose a breed of dogs? Not necessarily. The size of the dog is not linked to its attitude towards people and family members. Large sizes may only increase the fear of parents regarding whether such a dog could harm the child, while truly a family dog can become the best friend of children.
The ideal dogs for children must have a high threshold of patience and tolerance. A dog should not react with aggression to teasing or taking away its dog food. It is also recommended that the first pets for children should not possess hunting instincts or have a high need for exercise. This is related to the fact that parents of small children cannot devote so much time to tire out and satisfy the needs of the dog.
The Ideal Dog for Family Members
When choosing a dog for a child, it is also worth considering its age. Deciding on an adult or older dog requires tracking its history and knowing its previous behaviors. A plus of such a purchase is certainly that it is already known whether the dog loves children or not, and the final size of the dog is already visible.
The process of adopting a young dog has other advantages – a puppy can be trained from the beginning, for which training accessories available in pet stores will be useful. Additionally, the bond created by raising and growing up a puppy alongside a small child is unimaginable! Such a feeling impacts the entire life of the young person. A puppy also has boundless energy – it will certainly not be irritated by the constant desire to play and will become a great playmate for children.
Dog Breeds for Children
Small Dog Breeds
Pug
This breed of dog has an exceptionally cute appearance and reaches small sizes. These dogs are typical couch potatoes and will do well even in a small apartment. They are cheerful, loyal, and would prefer to follow their household members step by step. Pugs do not tend to be aggressive or to tease and get along very well with both other dogs and other animals.
English Bulldog
These dogs definitely do not like intense activities, tire quickly, and enjoy calm games or simply cuddling. English Bulldogs are known for being great babysitters for even the youngest children. Due to their poor physical condition, however, they may not keep up with the most active household members.
West Highland White Terrier
Another breed of companion dogs. Westies are balanced and friendly dogs. They are considered an intelligent breed. They will do well for long activities and play outdoors, and then for lounging on the couch. Older children will enjoy spending time teaching Westies various tricks and commands.
Bichon Frise
Do you have a small child and would like a dog? A Bichon Frise could be your ally, as it loves the company of children! This breed is affectionate, friendly, and gentle. It enjoys long cuddles on your lap and crazy outdoor playtime.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This is a child-loving dog; however, it may not do well with young household members who do not recognize boundaries with animals. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is quite a sensitive dog with a weak psyche. Frequent teasing without its consent won’t result in aggression, but it could lead to the dog withdrawing and becoming sad. Cavaliers will be a suitable breed for play with older children who respect the dog’s space, but this behavior must be taught to the child by the parent.
Large and Medium Dog Breeds
Labrador Retriever
In the case of this breed, the size of the dog is of little significance. The Labrador is a large dog, but in behavior and need for closeness, it acts like an eternal puppy! This breed loves people of all ages and types. However, it should be remembered that Labradors need as much exercise as they need love. Frequent, long walks and running outdoors will be an essential part of the day. Due to their high need for exercise and large body size, Labradors require larger portions of dog food than other breeds included in this list.
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is one of the friendliest dog breeds. Their gentleness, attachment to family, and devotion are known worldwide. They are easy to train, but should not be left alone for long periods. This breed suffers without its human family and can experience very intense separation anxiety.
Samoyed
Samoyeds are not without reason called smiling clouds. They are joyful and full of energy. This breed of dog is ideal for larger children, to explore the world together, to play around, and to run. Samoyeds have very thick fur that likes to fall out. Regular grooming and dedicating time to combing their coat are necessary.
The Gentlest Family Dogs
It is important to note that the mentioned breeds only have predispositions to being the ideal dog for children. The character of a dog can always differ from the breed standard, and upbringing and the conditions in which it has grown and lived are crucial.
Every dog needs a lot of time and attention, especially at the beginning, where training should be a daily routine. It is worth practicing with the dog calm eating of dry and wet dog food, as well as basic commands. In pet stores, there is a huge selection of all products for dogs of all ages. It is also very important to prepare for the dog, which will allow it to settle in, and activities using toys or training accessories will help strengthen the bond between the dog and the children or caregivers. Proximity is also strengthened when giving dog food, especially if it is something the dog loves!