Imagine that you have a beautiful family with a couple of kids, and now you’re ready to welcome a canine friend to your pack. You can’t just get any dog, you have to get the right breed that will get along with your kids. Even though all the dogs originate from the wolf species, every breed acts different.
Luckily, we have information about what to look for in a family dog so you can choose the right one.
What to Look for in a Family Dog?
When it comes to looking for the perfect dog, there are a couple of factors to look into:
Temperament
Temperament is basically the dog’s personality. You want to find a dog with gentle and agreeable characteristics. For example, a more calm and relaxed dog can quickly form a strong bond with your child.
Size
Size usually matters depending on the type of home that you own. For example, if you have a small apartment, then it’s best to get a smaller breed. If you have a house and a backyard, you can think about large or medium sized breed.
Energy
Depending on the activity levels in your household, it will affect which type of dog breed you should get. If your kids are extremely active and love to wrestle, then definitely go for a larger docile breed. However, if your family members are more relaxed and like to watch TV, then a calmer dog breed would be ideal.
Coat
This really depends on your family’s preference. If a family member has asthma or allergies, then it’s best to go for a hypoallergenic dog like a poodle or a short haired breed. If you want something more therapeutic or a dog that cuddles like a teddy bear, then a breed with longer and softer fur would be the best option.
Age
If you have children in the house, it’s always best to start with a puppy. That way, he or she can grow with the children and form a stronger bond. Starting with an adult dog is OK, but only if the dog is gentle and has a good temperament. You may want to know the history of the older dog before adopting him. Some older dogs were subject to abuse in the past, and that can lead to PTSD, which could be dangerous for your family members. If you decide to go with an older dog, make sure you know all their triggers.
10 Best Dogs for Kids and Families
Bulldogs
Bulldogs are a very relaxed and affectionate breed. This type of dog is built very sturdy, so it’s perfect for kids who like to wrestle and roughhouse. However, Bulldogs are not very energetic; they are more like couch potatoes. Because they are friendly and loyal, they often get along well with other pets in the house. These dogs can live in a home or apartment. They are also friendly to guests, other pets, and family members, which makes them a perfect fit for a sociable household.
If you were thinking about getting a bulldog, then you must consider the way their jaws are created. They will need some care in teeth cleaning. These dogs are known for drooling, wheezing, and snoring. And always remember to wipe their facial wrinkles to prevent dirt and buildup.
Beagles
Beagles are small dogs with calm temperaments. They love the outdoors and enjoy exploring new territories. Beagles were originally bred for hunting, which means that they can also live in a household with energetic kids. They are smart and friendly and can get along well with other pets.
Bull Terriers
The Bull Terrier was given a bad reputation and was unfairly branded as an aggressive breed. However, this is actually a companion dog and is known to do very well with kids and family members. They’re well-built and have a high threshold for pain, which makes it perfect for energetic kids who love to roughhouse. However, this dog must be kept physically and mentally active every day to avoid mischievous behaviors. If they are not properly exercised, they can destroy your house.
