Choosing a Child-Friendly Dog

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     Taking on the responsibility of a family pet is a decision that shouldn't be taken lightly. More often than not people rush into the decision of getting one only to return them later for the fact they can't look after them. It is due to this fact that there are certain things you need to keep in mind when choosing your family pet, especially if you are opting for a dog.

Dogs can be great companions and bring pleasures to their owners but there are over 200 breeds of dogs so how do you know which breed is best for your family. Each breed of dog has their own characteristics and while all dogs are individual, some breeds are generally great with children whereas others have a tendency to exhibit behaviours that make them a bad match for youngsters.

Choosing a dog breed can be important for parents with young children. The breed that you choose needs to be patient, loving, friendly and even tempered in order for them to be appropriate in an environment with children. So what exactly are some of the best child friendly breeds?

* Golden Retrievers
* Border Collies
* Labrador Retrievers
* Beagles
* West Highland Terriers

These are examples of breeds that are perfect for a family environment as they will love, cherish and protect your child. All of the above breeds are good tempered and natured and wouldn't do anything to hurt or scare anyone; if you are thinking about getting a family pet in the form of a dog then these are definitely some of the best breeds to look into.

To help you choose a dog that is perfect for your family environment you need to think through your decision by answering questions such as do you want an energetic/lively dog or a calmer and laid back dog? Do you want your dog to be strong willed or easy going? Do you need your dog to be friendly with other people or reserved with strangers? Do you want them to be playful or disinterested in toys? And, do you need them to be friendly to other pets?

For many children a pet dog is a best friend and a loyal companion who offers unconditional love while teaching them invaluable lessons about responsibility, friendship and trust. A pet dog will help your child's imagination to grow and will be there to play with them. They will get your child active and will help them to grow, both physically and mentally.

If you are thinking a getting a family dog then I recommend that you get a puppy as they will be able to grow with the family and by introducing them to a family environment early on will mean your child is more likely to bond with them. Just make sure that before you finalise anything that you talk the decision through and that you keep your child involved in the process when you come to choose the dog. This way they get their say in what they want and you are able to see how your child reacts to certain breeds to ensure that you choose the right one.