Dogs can be great friends for children. Yet, it can be a bit difficult choosing one when there are so many different breeds available. From giant breeds to toy breeds and long-haired dogs to short-haired ones, there are hundreds of dog breeds to choose from. However, to help you with your decision, you will find five of the best dogs for kids described below.
Golden Retrievers
Golden Retrievers are probably the all-time best dogs for children of all ages. Golden Retrievers originated in Scotland where they were commonly used to hunt game birds. Goldens are medium-sized dogs that typically weigh between 60 and 75 pounds. They have medium-length hair that can be blonde, gold, orange or red. Goldens are known best for being highly intelligent, easy to train, extremely gentle and amazingly loyal.
Newfoundlands
Newfoundlands originated in Canada where they were mainly used for water rescue and lifesaving purposes. Although some of these dogs can grow as large as 150 pounds, they are also extremely gentle and patient making them excellent dogs for children of all ages. Newfies have long, shaggy hair that requires daily brushing and comes in such colors as solid black, brown, gray or white with black markings.
Beagles
If you are interested in small dogs for kids, Beagles are among the best. Beagles came from Great Britain where they were developed to hunt rabbits and hares. The average size for a fully grown Beagle is about 20 to 25 pounds. These are short-haired dogs that require minimal grooming. Some of the best things about Beagles are that they love kids and are sturdy enough to withstand rough play.
Miniature Bull Terriers
Also among the best small dogs for kids are Bull Terriers. Bull Terriers have enjoyed companionship with children for many decades. These dogs hailed from England where they were often used to kill vermin. The average weight for a full grown Miniature Bully is about 20 to 30 pounds. This is a short-haired breed that is very patient and gentle making it one of the best small dogs for kids.
Labrador Retrievers
Finally, with temperaments much like Goldens, Labrador Retrievers are also among the best dogs for kids. Labrador Retrievers were developed in Canada where they were primarily used to hunt upland game birds and waterfowl. The average size for fully grown Labs is anywhere between 55 and 80 pounds. These are lively, happy dogs that love nothing more than to run and play with their human family members.
Facts About Dogs for Kids
Before you choose one of the dogs described above or any other breed, you need to be aware of some important facts about dogs for kids. First of all, you must never place the sole responsibility of caring for a pet onto your children. Most children are simply not responsible enough to provide the proper amount of care that a dog needs.
Additionally, never get a pet for your kids that is not recommended for children. This is by far one of the most important facts about dogs for kids. Not all dogs are patient with kids, and some breeds can hurt children due to their size or temperament. On the other end of the spectrum, many toy breeds should never be given to small kids because they are simply too fragile to withstand a young child’s rough play.
If you are looking for some great dogs for children, the five breeds described above are among the best. However, these are just a few of the many breeds that get along well with kids. Some other good dogs for kids include Collies, Bulldogs, Labradoodles, Border Collies and Standard Poodles.