Dogs are one of the friendliest pets to keep at home, especially when you have kids. If you are looking to add a dog to your home, you will find that there are different breeds and choosing one may be a bit difficult especially when you don’t understand their unique features.
Dog breeds are a way to classify the different dog types developed through the years. Some of these dogs can perform certain tasks, while some are there to serve other pet needs. To help you make the right selection, you can check some websites like
holistapet during your research. Also keep in mind your apartment size, budget, schedule, health, and children’s age in your decision-making.
Now, here are important factors to consider before choosing a dog and the top breeds that are suitable for families with children.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Dog Breed
Before deciding to adopt a particular dog, it is good to keep the dog’s size and your family’s activities or lifestyle in mind. Whatever choice you make, here are four key factors to understand:
Temperament
Temperament is a dog’s personality. For families with children, you will need to choose a dog with a welcoming temperament. For example, if a dog is calm it will easily become close to the family and their children.
Energy Level
Choosing based on this depends on the family schedule and activities. Some dogs require more exercise and training than others. So, if your schedule will not meet the pet's needs, it is best to not get it.
Care
Having pets means being dedicated but for some dogs, you might need to go beyond what you can give. All pets like to be well fed with healthy, nutritious meals but some will need more food than others. All breeds require grooming, but there are some that need it daily. So, know how much effort a dog you are considering will require before getting it.
Size
The size of the dog breed you choose should be in line with their energy level and temperament. This is because certain dog breeds especially the large ones can be docile and mild, while the smaller ones might be hyper-active. So, when considering size, let their behavior and attitude decide for you.
Common Dog Breeds to Consider
The following are some options to consider:
Dachshund
Popularly known as 'doxies', this adorable pet is a loyal dog with a spunky temperament. They like to cuddle and give kisses to their owners. Originally, these dogs come from Germany and were badgers’ hunters.
Although they are loving, sometimes due to their personality they might not be best for families with little children. Dachshund's can easily get back injuries if care is not taken when carrying them.
Pros of Having Dachshund
- It barely sheds its fur.
- It can serve as a watchdog.
- It needs little grooming.
Cons of Having Dachshund
- They can easily get back injuries.
- Due to their ancestors being hunters, they can be destructive.
- They are not friendly to strangers.
Boston Terrier
These dogs have black-white stripes that make them look like a boxer. Yet, they are patient and playful. These terriers are sturdy although small in size. They are American-bred dogs from the crossbreed of English terriers and bulldogs.
They make great family dogs and play well with kids.
Pros of Having Boston Terrier
- It is friendly with fellow pets
- They like to play with kids
- They require little grooming and hardly shed
Cons of Having Boston Terrier
- During training, they are stubborn
- They are prone to breathing issues and eye defects
- You may not control it without a leash because it runs very fast.
Pug
Pugs love their human and even stranger’s company. You can easily take care of them. They are sturdy and make good dogs for families. They like to play and snuggle too.
Pros of Having Pugs
- It socializes easily due to its outgoing temperament
- Its grooming is simple and done daily
- It is quite affectionate
Cons of Having Pugs
- They have protruding eyes that lead to trauma
- They can become obese if care is not given.
- They are not good watchdogs because of their friendliness
Labrador Retriever
These dogs are a family favorite. They are fit for busy families that partake in outdoor activities. Although gentle, their strong bodies and tails might push little kids down. To maintain their weight, they need regular exercise.
Pros of Having Labrador Retriever
- They are friendly to strangers and fellow pets
- They are smart dogs and can be therapy or service dogs
- They respond easily to training
Cons of Having Labrador Retriever
- They can shed excessively
- They need intensive exercise
- Due to their high energy levels, they can be destructive
Poodles
These pets are popular and great for families with allergies due to their fluffy coats that are hypoallergenic. They are intelligent and easy to train.
Pros of Having Poodles
- These dogs are beautiful with their fluffy, soft coat.
- They respond easily to training
- They have low shedding making great pets for allergy-prone owners
Cons of Having Poodles
- It will need pro grooming to cut its coat.
- It might be aggressive to strangers
- It could bark if it does receive attention
What does it mean for a dog to be hypoallergenic? Read
this article to find out.
Conclusion
So which breed will suit your family’s needs? With the options listed in this article, making a choice might be difficult. But consider your family’s peculiar needs and situation before settling for any option and you will be making the right choice.