Good dogs for kids

Question
Are basset hounds good to have with kids? I am wanting a dog that is not high maintenance. What I have read so far is that basset hounds are good dogs around kids and that they are very laid back and somewhat lazy.

Answer
Robyn, any dog can be good with kids providing the kids know how to properly behave around the dog. There is no one magical breed that is perfect for people with kids. There are examples of every breed that are excellent with kids as well as examples of every breed that are not.

My best advice to you, rather than trying to decide on a particular breed, is to visit your local shelters, rescue groups, etc. and tell the people in charge what you're looking for. Rescue groups that have their animals in foster homes as opposed to a shelter situation where they are all in cages would probably be the best way to go, because the foster parents can tell you all about the temperaments of the dogs in their care, whether they are good with children, whether they are potty trained, whether they have basic training already, etc.

There are LOTS of dogs that are good around kids and who don't require a lot of maintenance, and are laid back. I have a pit bull/chow cross that fits this description to a tee. I've had her since she was 10 weeks old, and she will be 5 years old at the end of February. She has never pottied in the house, never destroyed anything, loves people, keeps my two German shepherds in line, and knows more obedience commands than I can remember.

Good luck in your search, and if you DO decide that you want a particular breed, see if there are any breed rescues in your area before you decide on getting a puppy from a breeder. If you need help finding rescues, let me know where you're located and I'll help you.

Kristen