A new puppy can be a great addition to your family, but you’ll want to be extra careful in selecting the right type of dog if you have young children. Certain dog breeds are more ideal for families with small children than others. By taking some important factors into consideration, you should have less difficulty with choosing a puppy that will be right for your family.
Temperament
The breed that you choose should be known to have a personality that generally coincides well with children. Many puppies are naturally playful and have high energy, but you’ll still want to choose a puppy that can be calm enough around your children to keep them from getting hurt or scared. Mixed breeds, or mutts, often have better temperaments that are more suitable for small children. If you want a pure breed, some of the best types for families with children include the Golden Retriever, Border Collie, and Bulldog.
Dog Size
Even though most puppies are small in their earliest stages of life, some puppies grow quickly and can become quite large in only a few months. A large dog could be intimidating for small children and may end up hurting one of your kids if the dog causes him or her to fall and sustain injuries while playing. A smaller breed of dog might seem like a better option, but Chihuahuas and some other small dogs are known to be more temperamental and snappy and may not do well around children. However, some teacup dog breeds, such as Yorkies Terriers, Pomeranians and Toy Pugs, generally respond well to young kids, and you can buy one of these types of puppies for sale from a reputable breeder. A puppy that will grow into a medium-sized dog is often a safer bet for families with small children.
Longevity
Your children will likely form a strong bond with your puppy and will want to enjoy their new canine pal for many years to come. Picking a type of dog that’s known to live long may allow your kids to grow up together with the family dog, which can help create many special memories for your children. Yorkshire and Jack Russell Terriers are often good for families and can sometimes live more than 15 years. Pomeranians and Papillons are also known to have long lifespans.
Care Needs
Your children will likely want to help with caring for the family puppy, but getting a dog that’s high-maintenance can leave everyone feeling overwhelmed. If you want a dog that won’t shed a lot or require a lot of care for its coat, a hairless terrier or Whippet may be your best bet. Beagles, Border Collies and mixed breeds are among the healthiest types of dogs if you want a puppy that likely won’t require a lot of medical care. Labrador and Golden Retrievers are also known for their low-maintenance care needs.
The right puppy for your family can give your young children more reason to smile. You can create a stronger family unit by getting a puppy that is known to bond well with small children and fits your family’s lifestyle.