When looking to add a Dog Breeds to your family, especially with young children, it can be difficult to choose from the hundreds of breeds available. They all look fine and dandy, but the internet can be confusing.
Is there a right or wrong choice in choosing a dog breed that will be good with your children? With a little research, you’ll soon have puppy kisses and wagging tails in your home. We talked to the experts so you can find the best dog for kids for your family.
The first big decision: is a Dog Breeds right for your family?
Choosing a puppy for your family depends on many factors. It is important to consider the size of your home, how active you want the dog to be, and how often it will need to be groomed. Lindsey Wendt, DVM CVA CVT CCRT, Antelope’s chief medical officer, says it’s worth digging even deeper. “You’ll want to consider things like the environment and climate you live in. Do you live in a busy city or on a farm? Do you live in a place like Florida where it’s always hot? ” he asked.
It’s important to ask yourself these questions, and think about what kind of “job” the dog is being trained to do before it becomes a pet. Caroline Wilkinson, licensed dog psychologist at Barket Place, says it’s very important to do your research.
He said, “Although many people focus on the dog’s appearance, it is important to dig down and understand the work that these types of dogs are trained for and whether you can give them the right way for these types of behaviors. .” approved. Another important thing to consider is allergens. “Remember, there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog,” insists Ali Smith, president and co-founder of Rebarkable and a dog behaviorist. All dogs carry allergens, but poodles/doodles may be a low allergy option.”
As someone who has suffered from the disease myself, I am concerned that bringing a dog into the home will make my children’s allergies worse. But surprisingly, a recent study from PLoS One suggests that having one or more pets in the home can reduce a child’s chance of developing allergies and asthma. fire. However, it is important to talk to your pediatrician or health care professional before training your dog if necessary. Your child already has allergies.
Related: Open Your Heart and Home: The Wondrous World of Shelter Pet Adoption
Are you ready to meet the puppies? Here is an expert-approved list of dogs that would be perfect for homes with children:
Golden Retriever
A seasonal choice for families, golden retrievers are a good choice for busy families who don’t mind a large dog, says Paola Cuevas, MVZ, behaviorist at Dogster.com.
These dogs can weigh between 60 and 80 pounds and are considered “heavy breeders,” with a double coat that is thin for the summer and cool for the winter. And although they need a lot of exercise (60 to 90 minutes a day), they also like to swim and play with children.
“Golden Retrievers love water. For families who have access to a lake, river, sea or lake, this model will be a good friend for your children,” says Dr. Cuevas.
Golden Retrievers live 10 to 12 years and can become part of your family as your children grow up. And, true to their name, Golden Retrievers come in a variety of gold colors.
Labrador Retriever
Like golden retrievers, Labradors are also part of the retriever family. They have similar lifespans and molts, but are smaller than walleyes. Labradors are active dogs that love to play outside. Retrievers, originally trained for hunting, love to walk and play, supports Joey Morris, animal behaviorist and dog trainer at OverWatch K9 Academy.
“Labs were originally trained as hunting dogs. They are good swimmers and love the water. In fact, lab feet are webbed, which means that there is a thin skin between the toes, which, like a paddle, helps them become good swimmers,” . Labradors also come in different colors: cream, black, chocolate and yellow.
Irish Setter
Irish setters, originally bred to be birdwatching dogs, are a relentless breed that require two hours of exercise every day. If your family can play with their puppy for that long, they will be rewarded in spades: this breed is extremely social. Dr. Cuevas says: “Irish people are very friendly people, which makes them good for families with children.” Irish Setters are prized for their 12 to 15 year lifespans and their beautiful, silky, red coats.
Standard Poodle
Standard Poodles are a large, non-shedding breed (44 to 71 pounds) with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. They are known for their intelligence and large personalities, as well as their playfulness, Morris says. Thoughtful and sensitive people, Standard Poodles are perfect for busy families who can always keep up with their fashion. Since they do not shed, these dogs need to be trimmed from time to time. They come in a variety of colors, including plain black and white, but also apricot, red, silver, brown and gray.
It is important to note that Standard Poodles are also bred in smaller sizes: Toy (4 to 6 lbs) and Miniature (10 to 15 lbs).
Pomeranian
Pint-sized Pomeranians usually weigh about three to seven pounds and are playful, active and active with people. The model has a teddy bear face, making it a favorite with small children and ideal for small homes with small pets. Pomeranians are energetic, which makes them a good choice for homes with children. Although these puppies are considered “depressed,” Dr. Cuevas insists that they need regular dressing to make their clothes shine without matting and tangles. Pomeranians come in many colors, from black to red and brown, but they are best known for their fox-like orange color.
Related: Explore the Essential Role of Pets in Fostering Family Unity