Best Breeds for Young Children

[karynh]

Can anyone recommend the best dog breeds for a home with young children (ages 8 and 6).  Our family dog just passed away and she was not great with the kids.  We got her 3 years before we had our children.  She was a boxer/pit mix of some sort.

Any recommendations?

[smiley733]

I totally agree as you will know the hound as soon as you see them and then use Cesar Millans methods from the dog whisperer and you should be fine.  I know that the universe saying is true as we have 7 dogs mostly Greyhounds and it happens you meet one and know or if not them follow your heart.

[Ghilly]

VERY well put!!  :D

Ghilly

[peekawho]

It seems that the Universe will put the right dog in our hearts at the exact right time.  Your job is to recognize that dog, and bring him home.

[karynh]

Thanks everyone for your thoughtful comments.  They have been very helpful.  This will be a slow process as we just lost our dog and are not looking to get a new right away.

[April2]

Sometimes larger breeds such as Golden Retrievers and Labs (those with a gentle nature) can do better with smaller children because the kids can rough house with them more and they won't get hurt as easily as a smaller breed.
I agree with the others though, any breed can do well with children. Just look for one that has a patient, gentle nature and teach your children how to properly pet the dog (gentle touch, no pulling ears, etc!)
It can be a wonderful experience for your children to have their own pet. It will teach them responsibility and they get unconditional love in return! Can't beat that! :D

[LL7970]

All breeds are great with children ... as long as the children are taught to respect the dog.  My daughter grew up with 4 pitbulls - and they were fantastic with her !

[Jaybay]

The breed isn't as important as the personality of the individual dog, and how much work you put into socialization.  If you're looking to get a puppy, look for the one who is the calmest of the litter.  The pup who flings himself at you and barks non-stop is not going to be the one for your family.  Another quick test is to pick up the puppy and hold him in your arms on his back.  If he is comfortable having his tummy exposed and stroked, that's a great sign that you'll have a submissive dog.  

As with any new doggy addition to your family, obedience training is a must.  Get the kids involved in the training to help the dog understand that they are also at the top of the pack hierarchy.  

Other than that, look for a breed that you think will fit into your lifestyle.  Every dog, small or large needs daily exercise, but some breeds need more to stay healthy and mentally balanced.  If your family isn't very active, a high-energy breed like a dalmation wouldn't be a good fit.  If you don't have a yard, or even a small one, obviously a large dog wouldn't be a good choice.  

You might consider adopting a mutt with submissive personality traits.  I've rescued 3 mixed breeds, and they have all been fabulous pets and great with people and other dogs.  

If you plan on hiring a trainer or have an acquaintance who knows a great deal about dogs, you could ask that person to go with you to help narrow down your choice.   The American Kennel Club (akc.org) web site has detailed information on every AKC-recognized breed that should help you find the right dog for you and your family.  Enjoy!