If you are looking for a family pet and have young children, you should carefully consider which breeds will do best with toddlers and children.
You probably think that a small child gets along well with a small dog. Unfortunately, this is a misconception - many small dog breeds tend to bite and even properly bite. Sometimes small dog breeds are naturally nervous or over-excited.
Another reason that small breeds or toy dogs are not well suited to children is their vulnerability. They're small and they know it. Children can be unintentionally rude, allowing a small dog to lash out in supposed self-defense. The dog may not be angry, it may just be scared, and often with good reason.
Small dogs also have their advantages. They generally cost less money to feed and care for. They are often easier to train, and most small breeds live long lives. These petite pups don't take up much room on the couch, in bed, or on your favorite armchair. Fortunately, there are some small breeds that will tolerate and even enjoy the company of children. If you're looking for a small dog that, despite its size, gets along well with children, consider the five breeds listed below.
1. Beagle
One breed that gets along well with children is the Beagle. It is a hardy little dog that is easy to care for. They are very playful and intelligent, and since they want to please their owners, they are easy to train. Beagles weigh between 20 and 25 pounds and can live well indoors, even in small apartments, as long as they get a daily walk or play outside with the kids.
Since these little guys are sniffer dogs by nature, they sometimes run away when following an interesting scent. Therefore, it is best to walk or hold them on a leash outside. Be vigilant in this regard. Another disadvantage is that most Beagles are known for their yodeling.
A well cared for beagle will keep its family company for up to 15 years.
2. Pug
Another small breed that is good for children is the pug. Like the beagle, the pug has a thick, powerful body and a short coat. Pugs are playful and affectionate.
Never tell your pug he's small - he thinks he's a big dog in a little dog's body. They make excellent indoor alarm dogs and are very intelligent, if a bit stubborn.
Like other short-nosed breeds, pugs often have breathing problems, so they shouldn't get too hot or too cold. Also, you should never let a Pug become over-tired from over-exertion. Pugs are fairly quiet indoors and don't bark much, although they do like to play a little outside. A short daily walk is enough to satisfy their urge to move. Pugs weigh between 15 and 20 pounds (about 9 kg) and often live up to 15 years.
3. Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is one of the most recommended breeds for children. He has the body of a medium-sized dog on short legs and is therefore robust enough to romp around with children. His protective nature makes him a good watchdog, alerting you to possible intruders, but he usually doesn't bark without reason.
Highly intelligent and trainable, the Pembroke excels in obedience tests. The dogs weigh between 25 and 35 pounds (approx.16 kg) and do well with apartment life as long as they get a good daily walk. A healthy Corgi can live up to 15 years.
4. Maltese
Despite its striking appearance, the Maltese is a great little dog for families with children. It is one of the oldest dog breeds and is characterized by its beauty, loyalty, calmness and affection.
Maltese weigh between seven and nine pounds, although some breeders breed a teacup variety that weighs around three pounds. These smaller Maltese are actually too fragile for small children, so you should opt for a larger specimen.
Maltese are incredibly intelligent and excel at obedience competitions. Some bloodlines are prone to biting, so it's a good idea to find out about the parent breed's temperament. However, many breeders who have raised this breed have never seen this undesirable trait. A problem with this breed is the grooming required for the long, silky white coat. It knots easily.
If you take good care of your Maltese, it should lead a long, happy life.
5. Boston Terriers
The Boston Terrier is another winner with children. Strong and hardy, they often prefer to hang out with the kids rather than the adults. The breed is smart and easy to train, but should be handled with care - they are often very sensitive. They are also affectionate and even-tempered towards the whole family.
The Boston weighs between 10 and 25 pounds (approx. 11 kg) and can be kept well indoors, with a long daily walk. If you take good care of your Boston Terrier, he should give you 15 years or more of loyal friendship.
Pets are part of our family
A dog from an animal shelter or a rescued puppy is always a good idea. Hundreds of thousands of dogs and puppies are waiting for good homes in shelters across the country. For a family with young children, a puppy is best unless you can research an adult dog's history and know that they are good with children. Take the children with you when you visit the animal shelter. Watch them interact with different dogs before making your choice.
Before you decide to add a fur to your family, make sure you're really ready to give the animal a forever home. Unfortunately, according to reputable sources, many families who buy or adopt a dog give it up within a year. This trend has been exacerbated during the pandemic. Pets aren't disposable—or at least they shouldn't be. Whatever dog you choose, teach your children to treat them with love, gentleness, and respect. A good, loving dog will be an asset to your family and your children's best friend for years to come.