The Perfect Pal: Best Dog Breeds for Kids
Your Child and Your Dog: the Best Fit
Children and dogs. They go together like movies and popcorn. They’re the perfect companions, really. Both have an abundance of love and energy, and they thrive spending time together. But, as everyone knows, all children are different. And so are all dogs. So which dogs work best with kids all together? And which breed is the best for your kid in particular?
Here are some of the top matches, with notes on who the pup would go well with:
• Boxer – built for high energy children, these dogs love to play. They crave companionship with people. They need lots of exercise; great for sporty kids.
• Weimaraner – this friendly breed is great for anxious children. They pay attention to their surroundings, and are extremely obedient.
• Golden Retriever – a long time family favorite, the Golden fits well with a wide variety of children. They’re very smart and remain devoted companions.
• Portugese Water Dog – not just a presidential pet, the Portugese Water Dog might be great for your family. They’re extremely kid friendly, and wary enough of strangers to be great protectors.
• Pug – these little friends have amazing personalities. A great gift for either your class clown or a serious child, they’ll be a couch favorite. These pups love to eat, so make certain you get the best food for pug puppy.
• Bulldog – a stalwart guardian, these pups have courage and remain calm. Great companions for kids who are overly active.
• Mastiff – these gentle giants are extremely affectionate and very protective. Great for long snuggles, and for feeling safe.
• American Staffordshire Terrier – once the number one family dog in the country and a patriotic symbol in WWI, this pup is an excellent family animal. Great with all children.
• Newfoundland – a family companion and a built in babysitter, Newfies are great with children, particularly in cold climates. A fun and useful sled puller!
• Pembroke Welsh Corgi – highly trainable and very intelligent, the Corgi goes well with all manner of children, and fits in with other animals also.
How to Match Kids and Dogs
Choosing a family pet is very exciting. Kids really benefit in helping with the process; the whole family can talk about the type of dog they want and why, and can list their top choices together. Then, it’s a decision of where to buy or adopt from: an adoption agency, the pound, a pet store, or a private breeder.
Plan in advance. It’s really difficult for a kid to be faced with a lot of cute dogs. They’ll want them all. But, only one will be coming home!
The family can help choose the new puppy’s supplies also. Bedding, food, toys, a large dog kennel, etc. it’s all fun to pick out together. When everything’s bought, your new family member can come happily home.
Have everything in place before picking up your new puppy so they can be extra comfortable when they arrive home. Then, snuggle up and settle in. Your kids now have a new family member to play with.
