How to choose a dog if there is a child in the house

A domestic dog can become not only a loyal friend to an adult but also a true companion for a child. It helps instill responsibility and care in children, develops empathy, and teaches friendship. However, choosing a pet for a family with children requires a special approach.

🐾 What to look for when choosing a dog

1. Character and temperament

The most important quality for a dog in a family with a child is composure. Aggressive or overly nervous breeds should be excluded. Pay attention to dogs with a gentle, patient temperament.

2. Dog size

Small breeds (pug, Boston terrier, beagle) are easy to care for, but they can be more fragile and are not always patient with excessive attention from children.

Medium and large breeds (Labrador, Golden Retriever, Collie) are usually more patient, resilient, and better suited for active games.

3. Energy

If a child is active and loves walks, an energizer dog (Border Collie, Labrador, Spaniel) will suit them. A calm family should choose a well-balanced pet that only needs a couple of walks a day.

4. Care and maintenance

Some breeds require complex coat care (e.g., poodles or Shih Tzus), others are prone to frequent illnesses. If you have little time for grooming and veterinarians, choose less demanding breeds.

5. Dog's age

The puppy is a child and the dog will grow up together, but it will take a lot of time to raise.

An adult dog already has a formed character, you can choose a pet with a suitable temperament.

Shelter dogs are a great opportunity to give a home, but it is important to choose an animal that gets along well with children.

Best breeds for a family with children 🐶

The Labrador Retriever is friendly, patient, and loves active games.

The Golden Retriever is calm and affectionate, and gets along wonderfully with children.

The Collie is intelligent and obedient, and loves to be the center of the family.

The Pug is compact, good-natured, and even suitable for an apartment.

The Beagle is cheerful, energetic, but requires walks.

Newfoundland is a 'gentle giant,' very patient with children.

Tips for parents ✅

Never leave a small child alone with a dog unsupervised.

Teach the child how to interact correctly with the animal — not to pull its ears or tail, and not to disturb the dog while it is eating.

Divide responsibilities: let the child help feed or brush the pet—this way they will learn care.

Remember: any dog requires upbringing and training, especially in a family with children.

👉 Ultimately, when choosing a dog, the main thing is not the breed's fashion, but the pet's character and the family's willingness to give it attention. Then the friendship between the child and the dog will become a real joy for the whole family.