Best family dog medium size: Best Medium-Sized Dogs for Kids

Best Family Dogs – American Kennel Club

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Most dog owners consider their dogs as members of their families. But when there are children in the house, thoughtful consideration needs to be made to choose the right dog for your lifestyle, living quarters and children’s ages. Some breeds are quite patient with younger kids, and others are…

Most dog owners consider their dogs as members of their families. But when there are children in the house, thoughtful consideration needs to be made to choose the right dog for your lifestyle, living quarters and children’s ages. Some breeds are quite patient with younger kids, and others are better with older children. Some are happy in urban environments, and others need more room to roam. No matter what, you’ll want a dog with an outgoing and friendly personality who is loving and affectionate with the whole family.

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Airedale Terrier

His size, strength, and unflagging spirit have earned the Airedale Terrier the nickname ‘The King…

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Alaskan Malamute

An immensely strong, heavy-duty worker of spitz type, the Alaskan Malamute is an affectionate…

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American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo Dog combines striking good looks with a quick and clever mind in a total…

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American Leopard Hound

Intelligence is one of the American Leopard Hound’s very best attributes. The breed is loving and…

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Basset Fauve de Bretagne

Smart, courageous and determined, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a serious hunter, easily…

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Beagle

Not only is the Beagle an excellent hunting dog and loyal companion, it is also happy-go-lucky…

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Bearded Collie

A boisterous and charismatic droving dog from Scotland, the shaggy-coated Bearded Collie (‘Beardie’…

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Bergamasco Sheepdog

Generally happy with kids and other animals, the low-maintenance and robustly healthy Bergamasco i…

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Bernese Mountain Dog

Big, powerful, and built for hard work, the Bernese Mountain Dog is also strikingly beautiful and…

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Biewer Terrier

The Biewer Terrier is an elegant, longhaired, tri-colored toy terrier whose only purpose in life i…

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Border Terrier

Admirers of the upbeat and agile Border Terrier cherish their breed’s reputation as a tough…

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35 Best Medium and Small Dogs for Kids – Top Dog Tips

Picking a dog breed when you have a kid at home should be done with care and consideration. There are several best medium dogs best for kids, and even more best small dogs for kids which new owners can choose from.

In the below list, our dog breed experts have picked the 35 best dog breeds for kids. The list includes about half the best medium dogs for kids and another half for small dogs.

All these breeds have been shown to behave very well around small children and are perfect family dogs.

Before you get one of these dogs listed below, here are two useful video guides for you:

• How To Teach Kids To Behave Around Dogs
• How To Train A Dog To Behave Around Kids

Teaching kids to behave around dogs and vice versa is important for everybody’s safety.

Because of its importance, we’ll also give you a quick summary here. 

Tips for Helping Kids and Pets Get Along

As a general rule of thumb, you’ll notice plenty of experts suggest waiting until your kid is about five years old or so before you add a dog to your family.

At this point, they’ll better understand when you teach them what they should and shouldn’t do. 

If you already have a dog and welcome a kid, or end up adding a pup to your family before then, don’t worry. Everything can still work out great. 

The most important thing to remember is always to supervise your dog and kid when they are together. Do this regardless of the breed. 

It would help if you also remembered that every dog is different. Just because a breed is on this list, that doesn’t automatically mean that all dogs from that breed will be great with your kids from the start.

You will need to train and socialize your dog well. 

Don’t forget that even well-behaved dogs that are great with kids may reach their limit if you don’t teach your kids to interact with them properly.

That’s part of why you should always supervise interactions. 

What to Consider When Finding a Kid-friendly Dog?

Don’t forget to think about what will make a dog on this list the perfect fit for you and your family. Keep the following considerations in mind. 

Energy Levels

Think about how active your family is and choose a breed that matches your energy levels.

Whether you tend to stay home or love going on long hikes, you can find a dog that’ll love joining your family activities. 

Size

Think about how your family will do with a dog of a given size. For example, if you get a tiny dog, it may be more fragile.

Tiny, fragile dogs are typically better for older kids, and you may want to stick to medium-sized ones for younger children. 

Required Care

Of course, don’t forget to think about how much care the dog needs. How often does it need baths? How long of walks does it need? Will it likely have expensive health problems in the future?

Make sure your family can handle your future dog’s needs. 

With that in mind, take a look at the best medium and small dogs for kids.

35 Best Medium and Small Dogs for Kids

1. Labrador Retriever

Well-known Labrador Retrievers are among the most popular dog breeds globally and are considered the best small-medium-sized dogs for kids and simply amazing family pets.

As they are also known, labs are kind animals who love to play, know what strong patience is, and love people and especially kids.

They are very protective of their owners, especially children they spend time at home to be your reliable friend and guard.

2. Beagle

A hunting dog who turned out to be an amazing family pet! Beagles are the best small dogs for kids because of their complete domestication and desire to stay at home with the family.

They prefer being active at home, so energetic kids definitely have a blast with this dog breed.

Also, Beagles are sturdy, just as Bulldogs, and they can take and even tolerate most of the damage done by kids while playing; the dog gets tired too quickly.

It’s a brilliant and friendly breed that will be an amazing home pet.

3. Shih Tzu

Exotically named Shih Tzu dogs are not only one of the best small dogs for kids, but they’re also one of the cutest breeds. Shiz Tzus are very small, friendly, playful, and sweet dogs who are very loyal to those they spend a lot of time together.

So if your kids love playing with pets, this dog breed will accompany them in their playful endeavors and join in whenever possible.

4. Maltese

Another one of the hypoallergenic dogs, Maltese, is also great with children, and despite their long coats, they shed very little.

Aside from being in love with kids, this dog breed is absolutely great with other people, animals, pets, and even cats.

This dog will require a lot of attention and some grooming needs. They don’t like being alone and constantly seek to play and communicate.

5. Pug

Pugs are wonderful with kids, mostly because every child adores this breed. This breed is loving, friendly, and curious of children; they love spending time with kids and giving into their chaotic games.

Pugs are known to be very accepting and generally nice dogs that will never be mean to anybody, making them a perfect fit for families with small children.

RELATED: 17 Small Dog Breeds That Are Good With Kids

6. Miniature Schnauzer a Small Dog for Kids

Miniature Schnauzer is not only the most popular of the Schnauzer dog family but one of the most sought-after dog breeds, which makes them expensive.

However, this dog is not only small and cute, but it’s one of the best dogs for kids and families in general.

While they can sometimes have an attitude, for the most part, this dog is brilliant, cheerful, and loves playing around.

7. Yorkshire Terrier

Adorable, small, popular toy dog breed Yorkshire Terrier is great for those kids who love to move a lot, be adventurous and explore.

This dog is very active and constantly interested in trying out new things, and when paired with the right type of children, all of them will have a blast together.

They are affectionate to people but require a lot of attention and can get loud.

RELATED: Best Dog Food for Yorkies – How & What to Feed Yorkshire Terriers?

8. Shetland Sheepdog

Another beautiful dog breed, the Shetland Sheepdog, is great for kids with an energetic personality.

Shelties love to move and jump around constantly, and they will ensure that your child doesn’t stay still most of the time while also having an amazing playful time.

However, this is also one of those breeds that require regular grooming and special attention.

9. Miniature Poodle is a Great Small Dog for Kids

Just as their bigger family members, Miniature Poodles are also brilliant dogs that will get along well with kids and other dogs and cats.

This is a hypoallergenic dog breed that is perfect for children with allergies. They shed very little, are easy to train, and are a true loyal companion.

On the other hand, Miniature Poodles can be caprice and do require regular grooming.

10. Standard Poodle

Very famous Standard Poodles are considered the best small dogs for kids because of their calmer, more gentle nature.

They love people and especially children, and are generally brilliant dogs. Furthermore, they’re also one of the best hypoallergenic dogs, so if your kids have any issues with allergies, this can be a potential winner on your list.

11. Basset Hound

Originally bred for hunting rabbits and other games, this dog has become a loyal family pet and is one of the best small dogs for kids.

Basset Hounds are very laid-back, oftentimes even lazy, and sturdy dogs that can take most punishment from kids with great patience.

If living in the apartment, this dog breed can get very loud, however, and it’s difficult to fight with their stubbornness.

RELATED: 40 Best Dog Breeds for Women

12. English Setter

English Setters, also known as Moderate Setters, is a very easygoing nature dog breed of medium size.

They are affectionate of people, genuinely love kids, and are considered easily one of the best small dogs for kids (or rather, small-medium sized).

English Setter will be a loyal companion interested inactive lifestyle, hunting, and simply being a great friend to all family members.

13. Entlebucher Mountain Dog

A not very popular mostly because of the complicated name, Entlebucher Mountain Dog is a Swiss herding dog.

This is a loud breed that takes their territory seriously and will warn the owner of any strangers or guests and protect you and your kids from anything that looks dangerous to them.

They love to socialize and caring for small children but sometimes might not be gentle enough.

RELATED: 10 Worst Dog Breeds for First Time Owners

14. Puggle is a Cute Small Dog for Kids

A mix between the already mentioned Pug and Beagle, Puggle is a cute dog breed that will get along well with kids and other family members.

This is a popular dog breed mostly due to its friendly nature, loving personality, and adorable looks.

Puggles are always great family companions and have no problems living alongside other pets; they also welcome new people.

15. Berger Picard

Another small-medium-sized dog rather than small, a dog with an awesome name like Berger Picard can only be a great family member.

This intelligent and vivacious dog breed can be a patient, understand, and resilient playmate for most children. Picards can be easily trained but do tend to be stubborn.

16. American Water Spaniel

Arguably one of the rare dog breeds, American Water Spaniel is small-medium sized but still great around children.

This dog breed is mostly used as a working canine for hunting, and they’re always full of life, energy, and enthusiasm, which is exactly why AWS is perfect for kids.

They do require a lot of exercises as well as mental stimulation.

17. Appenzeller Sennenhund

Not really a small dog breed but rather a solid medium-sized canine,  Appenzeller Sennenhund might have a very complicated name.

Still, this dog breed is undoubtedly a great companion to children who are a little older.

They’re very friendly, protective but tend to “herd” your kids by cautiously nipping at the heels if they need a little guidance.

RELATED: 10 Strangest Dog Breeds on the Planet

18. Pyrenean Shepherd

Here’s a perfect dog for kids who love to play, run, move and be constantly active.

Pyrenean Shepherd is one of the best dogs for agility competitions because of its enthusiastic nature, which also works well for them when playing with hyperactive kids.

This herding dog is loyal to its family members but can sometimes get a little over-protective.

19. Golden Retriever a Not So Small Dog for Kids

Golden Retrievers are slightly smaller than Labrador Retrievers.

Still, they are just as kind, very confident, and clever best small-medium dogs for kids that will be loyal to your family and get along very well with everybody in the household.

Retrievers are never aggressive without reason (only to protect those they love), they’re not timid either, and their best quality is that they are extremely patient, and that’s a quality required when dealing with kids.

20. Bulldog

Everybody praises English Bulldogs (breed profile) as the best small dogs for kids because of their “build.” Apparently, dog trainers are confident that most Bulldogs will take on any hyperactive children because of how sturdy they are.

It’s true that this dog breed isn’t very active and is usually lazy, similar to French Bulldogs, but that doesn’t make them any less cute, fun, or interesting to play around with, especially for kids who love to climb dogs and do all sorts of nasty things to them on occasion.

Bulldogs can take it, and they love children.

21. Collie

No list of the best small dogs for kids can go without the famous Lassie. Collies are very kind dogs that love children and know how to be patient with them, taking in whatever comes.

And even though their long, luxurious coat requires constant high maintenance, it’s a small price to pay in exchange for how much kids love their looks and attitude.

The Collie breed is considered one of the best small dogs for kids because of their 100% unconditional loyalty to humans – they love their owners and will do everything to make them happy.

22. Vizsla

A slightly more rare dog breed with a complicated name, Vizslas, comes from middle-European countries where they used to be hunting dogs.

Today, the times have changed, and they have gained the title of one of the best small dogs for kids and families that are very gentle and loyal to their owners.

This dog breed knows how to be quiet when necessary, be patient with those “small humans,” and be affectionate.

Every kid will love spending time with this cute, family-friendly, energetic dog.

RELATED: What Breed is My Dog? Here’s How to Tell Your Dog’s Breed

23. Irish Setter

Rarely mentioned on best small dogs for kids, Irish Setters are well known for their gorgeous ginger/red/maroon/dark brown color type coats.

This dog breed is very playful and energetic, making them one of the best small dogs for kids or families in general. Irish Setters love humans and like spending time around people, playing, and having fun with children.

However, this canine breed will need a lot of exercise, so it’s better if the kids themselves are active and will provide the dog with that.

24. Pembroke Welsh Corgis

Considered as one of the more popular herding dogs, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are perfect pets for families with kids.

They’re very bold, friendly, sturdy, and strong dogs that can handle any rambunctious kids with patience.

Corgis also need a lot of exercise, so if you have very active kids, both of them will complement each other.

25. Newfoundland is Not a Small Dog for Kids

Newfoundland dog breed has gained a name for itself by being a rescue dog, and it appears that helping humans is simply in their blood.

This is one of the best small dogs for kids because of its patient and kind nature; they even gained a nickname among most dog owners and pet lovers – Nature’s Babysitter.

This huge, furry animal loves children very much and will be extremely protective of them. In fact, you can let this dog protect your kids anywhere outside and leave: be sure they will not let anyone come even close to your children no matter what.

26. Bull Terrier

The famously scary-looking dog breed is actually a great family pet, believe it or not.

They are one of the best small dogs for kids because of their sense of camaraderie and companionship, which is what they were bred for before.

The bad name this dog breed has is completely undeserved. Bull Terriers are friendly with their family and love kids as well as adults.

They are also protective of their owners and will ensure that everybody knows that these kids are under their protection.

RELATED: 25 Best Dog Breeds for Small Apartments

27. Bichon Frise

A true small breed that has also gained the title of one of the cutest dog breeds, Bichon Frise is easily the best small dog for kids, whom they seem to love dearly.

They are very active, happy-go-lucky, and enthusiastic dogs who love spending time with people, and tiny humans are known as children.

They will actively play around with kids and have fun at the same time.

In addition to that, they are irresistible to anybody who meets them and is very difficult not to love. Kids adore this dog breed!

28. American Boxer

This more of a mid-sized but still considered best small dogs for kids breed is athletic and active. They will exhaust your kids before the children exhaust the dog.

They are great guardians of their owners and family and will protect the children from any danger at all times.

American Boxers, which is not the same as the Standard Boxers, love affection from humans and will serve loyally to gain it.

Make sure to take them out for regular exercise daily, however, as they require a lot of energy expenditure.

29. Pharaoh Hound

Exotic-looking Pharaoh Hound is a very gentle, loving, and affectionate dog.

They’re also known to be very aloof and clownish on occasions but always get along very well with any family member, other pets, and tiny children.

This is not a small dog breed but definitely a great option if you’re looking to adopt an extremely loving dog who will adore your children forever.

30. American Pit Bull Terrier

Another dog breed, specifically American, these canines are one of the best small dogs for kids.

Even though they are known to be fighting dogs, if raised and treated appropriately in the family, this breed becomes an incredible family friend who loves kids.

American Pit Bull Terrier will be a good guardian of your children, but they require daily exercise and attention.

RELATED: 10 Best Dog Breeds for First Time Owners

31. Labradoodle

Cute-looking Labradoodles are the best small dogs for kids because of their wise, fatherly look and because they are straightforward to train and know how to get along well with children.

They are known for their loyalty and eagerness to please nature, which is vital when considering the best family dog as a pet.

However, these dogs aren’t best for first-time dog owners.

32. Boston Terrier

This dog breed is absolutely perfect for children because of its size and nature.

Boston Terriers have long been considered one of the best small dogs for kids and have earned themselves a cool nickname – American Gentleman.

This is a very gentle and patient animal who will be extremely easy to house and crate train and quickly fall in love with children.

More importantly, no child will be able to resist the charm of a cute Boston Terrier.

33. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The royally titled breed is yet another one of the best small dogs for kids and their parents.

CKCS are amazing family pets who are very cute, intelligent, and love spending time with humans. On top of that, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are an affectionate dog breed that loves to run around and expend their energy, so they will be perfect for kids who love to play with dogs.

This canine breed is smart and will quickly learn what exactly you expect from them and will make sure to accommodate your needs.

RELATED: 30 Most Lazy Dog Breeds Perfect for a Couch Potato Owner

34. Havanese

Lastly, on the Top Dog Tips list of best small dogs for kids, we have the cute Havanese – a more rare breed that is impossible to resist.

They are becoming more popular every year, and most families love these dogs due to their accepting nature, patience, and love of children.

They might not be the strongest protector, but Havanese is a brilliant dog that will give plenty of love to your family and your kids.

And no human will dislike the magnificent wavy coat of the Havanese dog breed.

35. Small Munsterlander Pointer

Last but definitely not least is a Small Munsterlander Pointer. Generally used in sports and hunting, this dog breed is very confident and patient.

It’s one of the best small-medium-sized dogs for kids due to their calm temper, and they also get along with everybody else around the house.

SMPs were only popular in Europe, but their presence is now increasing in the US.

Honorable Mentions

With just 35 dogs on our list, clearly, not every breed cut. If you want to expand your options a bit, consider these other breeds that also tend to be great with kids. 

• Australian Terrier 
• Basset Fauve de Bretagne
• Border Terrier 
• Boykin Spaniel 
• Brittany
• Cardigan Welsh Corgi
• Cesky Terrier 
• Dachshund 
• English Springer Spaniel
• Finnish Lapphund
• Icelandic Sheepdog 
• Keeshond
• Papillon 
• Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka
• Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier 
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier 
• Whippet

Common Questions About Medium and Small Dogs for Kids 

Do you still have questions about the best medium and small dogs for kids? We’ve gathered all the most common questions and answers in one convenient place.  

What Are the Best Medium-sized Dogs for Families?

The best mid-size dogs for families are collies, dalmatians, poodles, Australian shepherds, Siberian huskies, and Samoyeds. 

What Is the Most Child-friendly Small Dog?

The American Eskimo dog is among the most child-friendly small dogs. Other great options include Australian terriers, Bedlington terriers, Bolognese dogs, Bichon Frises, and Brussels Griffons. 

Which Dog Can Kill a Lion?

The Rhodesian Ridgeback can kill a lion. 

What Is the Cutest Medium-sized Dog?

Most people agree that the cutest medium-sized dogs include the Samoyed, Siberian husky, Labrador retriever, dalmatian, Shiba Inu, cocker spaniel, Yorkshire terrier, and soft-coated wheaten terrier. 

What Is the #1 Dog Breed 2020?

The most popular dog breed in 2020 was the Labrador retriever. German shepherds came in second, followed by golden retrievers and French bulldogs.

READ NEXT: 10 Best Books for Dog Owners with Kids

Video of Top 10 Best Small Dogs for Kids

Dog for children – the best dog breeds for a child

A dog is a true friend for a child, ready to diversify life and give unconditional love. Pet care builds responsibility and teaches children discipline, and in the process of training a puppy, the child sets a goal and strives to achieve it. In this article, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the breeds that are suitable for living together with children.

Things to consider before buying a dog

Acquiring a pet is a responsible step that all family members should be ready for. Get together for a family council and talk about what will change in your life if a dog comes home. Assess your capabilities, a pet is not a toy, he will need to devote time for many years. nine0007 What questions should be discussed :

• If a child asks for a dog, parents should understand that most of the worries will fall on their shoulders. Due to age and lack of experience, children do not fully understand how to properly care for a little friend. For example, you can’t skip a walk if you don’t feel like going outside, or don’t feed your pet because you’re addicted to playing on the computer.

• Is there enough money for maintenance. In addition to the regular purchase of food, you need accessories for walking, relaxing, and playing. Funds will also be needed for appointments with a veterinarian and, if the breed requires, services in a grooming salon. If the plans include participation in exhibitions and competitions, this is a need for even greater investment of funds. nine0014

• Are all family members ready for a puppy? Distribute responsibilities and enlist the support of each other, that everyone will take care of the pet based on their capabilities. Entrust your child with feasible tasks, given his age and the breed of the dog.

• When you choose a breed, carefully read all its characteristics, study the features of behavior, habits, instincts, what kind of care it needs. The amount of time that will need to be regularly spent on a pet also depends on this. The ability to train and train also greatly affects temporary resources, make sure you have them. nine0014

• Estimate the size of your home. Is there enough space for the whole family if a large dog also lives in the apartment. If a cat and other pets live at home, carefully approach the choice of breed. Not all dogs tolerate such a neighborhood, and hunting breeds often see small animals as prey.

• If the child is allergic, this is not a reason to abandon the pet. There are breeds that practically do not shed and have no smell, which allows us to consider them conditionally hypoallergenic. Some studies show a reduced risk of developing allergic asthma in children exposed to dogs from early childhood. nine0014

• To buy a puppy, choose a kennel with a good reputation. Professional breeders carefully monitor the purity of the breed, timely vaccination and do not allow individuals with health problems to be bred. Together with the puppy, you will be given a package of documents: a veterinary passport, a metric, a stamp registration.

The choice of breed also depends on the purpose for which you want to get a dog. Will it be a friend and faithful companion, a participant in exhibitions or a future champion of sports. nine0003

At what age should a child get a dog

Animals in the house teach the child responsibility and give a lot of positive emotions. The dog has a positive effect on mental development and helps to adapt to the world around. There is no exact recommendation at what age it is recommended to purchase a pet. Each age category has its own characteristics, we will analyze them in more detail:0008

At this age, the desire to buy a dog can only come from adults, for example, when parents get a puppy as a friend with whom the baby will grow up. From the moment of birth to a year, caring for a child takes up too many resources, so you need to clearly assess the possibilities in order to raise a puppy as well. At this age, it is important to ensure that the dog does not accidentally injure the child.

• Early age (1-3)

At the age of one, the child begins to walk and comprehend the world around him, and from the age of two, children are purposefully introduced to animals according to the development program. The kid is not yet able to learn all the rules of careful handling of the dog. Make sure that the child does not pull the tail or ears, otherwise curiosity can lead to aggression from the pet.

In the third year of life, a child is able to show humane feelings towards animals and treat dogs kindly. Children at this age should understand how to deal with a living being. Do not leave a child alone with a dog, especially with a large breed. nine0003

• Preschool age (3-7)

In preschool childhood, play takes up a lot of space in a child’s life, so a four-legged partner will definitely not be superfluous. Outdoor walks, ball exercises and sports games will bring a lot of positive emotions. By the age of five, children can be introduced to some dog care duties, such as putting food in a bowl or picking up her toys. Communication with a pet should take place in the presence of adults. nine0003

• Primary school age (7-11)

Most often it is during this period that children have a clear desire to get a dog. Moreover, younger students are quite consciously ready to take care of a pet and take a responsible approach to their duties. If the child asks for a dog, explain that a pet is not only fun games and entertaining training, it is also toilet training and daily walks. In any case, the adult continues to control and take a direct part in the care of the dog. nine0003

• Adolescence (11-15)

Teenagers can become full-fledged dog owners: feed, walk, attend training classes. In addition, the child himself can choose the breed and evaluate his ability to care for the pet. Support your teenager’s autonomy and provide assistance as needed.

Which breeds of dogs are suitable for children

First of all, these dogs include breeds with a calm character and a balanced nervous system. The pet should be friendly to children and, despite their age, not try to dominate. nine0003

Among the breeds for babies, those who will allow them any pranks and will not show aggression are suitable. For seniors – active breeds with which you can spend a lot of time playing and training.

We offer you to get acquainted with the features of breeds of different sizes that you can safely start in a family with a child.

Small size breeds

• Boston Terrier is a dog with an accommodating nature, which is satisfied with any activity that takes place in the house. He treats all family members kindly, joins children’s games with pleasure, but at the same time behaves delicately and politely. nine0014

They are easy to take care of, short hair is enough to periodically brush with a special mitt. They like to frolic and play with the ball while walking. Boston Terriers can’t resist the urge to pee for long, so you need to be prepared for puddles on the floor.

• Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are always in a good mood. They get along with all pets and do not try to dominate. They need the attention of a person, it is better not to leave them alone. nine0014

Representatives of the breed love tactile contact, so they really like the company of children. Pets need to be constantly stroked, scratched, ruffled, they rejoice even in the strong hugs of babies.

• The Cairn Terrier is the perfect companion for outdoor play, ready to race and retrieve balls with the children. At the same time, he does not like it when someone encroaches on his personal belongings, it is better to warn the child about this in advance.

The dog belongs to a hunting breed that needs long walks and exercise. Cairn Terriers love to dig holes for rodents and chase cats. They require a lot of attention to hair care. They do not shed, therefore, to remove the fallen hairs, it is necessary to resort to the trimming procedure.

• French Bulldogs have a docile nature and are equally friendly to all family members. Such dogs need constant contact with the owner, and at a young age they also need outdoor games, so they quickly find a common language with children. nine0014

Pets are not too whimsical in care. It is enough to comb them a couple of times a week, they do not need long walks. It is better for kids not to start such a breed, the French bulldog can react aggressively to careless handling.

• Bichon Frize is a mischievous pet, does not like to sit still. Energetic dogs are ready to frolic and communicate all day long, so they will become an excellent partner in games for the child. Due to their cute appearance and affectionate nature, they are attracted to canis therapy. nine0014

The white coat is brushed every day to keep it fluffy. Bichons have difficulty learning to toilet outside, sometimes it becomes easier to teach them to pee on a diaper at home.

• Pug is a loving pet that needs constant attention. With age, pugs become less active, but the desire to be near the owner does not go away, so they will always be happy with the company of children.

It is not recommended to start with babies, who can accidentally injure their bulging eyes. In addition, pugs snore a lot, which can break the silence in the house. Representatives of the breed are suitable for those who get a pet for the first time. nine0003

• Jack Russell Terrier – suitable for older children: not the type to tolerate neglect and excessive affection. Generally benevolent, but it requires the upbringing of an experienced owner. He does not like loneliness, for an active lifestyle and daily stress during long walks.

This is a bright representative of hunting dogs with a developed intellect and wayward character. Jack Russell Terrier will become a good friend to a teenager, with whom they will spend a lot of time and practice new commands. nine0003

• The Continental Toy Spaniel (Papillon) is a real extrovert who always has a good mood and a positive outlook on the world. Ready for constant communication and craves the same feedback from the owner. His over-energy can be put to good use in dog competition.

He treats children kindly, but does not tolerate rudeness and pressure at all. Therefore, the papillon is recommended to have a child who is able to realize this. nine0003

• The Yorkshire Terrier is a wonderful companion for children and teenagers, ready to join in the pranks and play at any time. But for a baby it is better not to start it, fragile representatives of the breed are easy to injure.

  Yorkies become attached to the owner, from whom they expect constant attention and mutual feelings. The breed is decorative, its appearance needs to be given a lot of time. In addition to combing and bathing, haircuts in the grooming salon are required.

• Maltese — loves to be in the spotlight, so it often gets in the way where all family members are. In general, the Maltese are peaceful and prefer constant communication, but they will not tolerate a tactless attitude. Therefore, a pet of this breed should be taken with older children.

Maltese lapdogs are easy to care for, but training is more difficult. Stubbornness prevents them from learning, besides, they have no obvious desire to study. nine0003

Medium-sized breeds

• Poodle is one of the smartest dogs. Such pets have a docile nature, so obedience problems usually do not arise. In addition, poodles are very friendly. All these characteristics make it an excellent friend and partner for children of any age.

The breed needs long walks with the opportunity to frolic. Systematic combing and haircuts are required, wool allows you to create different hairstyles for your pet. nine0003

• Beagle – suitable for school age children. The pet will become a true friend to the child, with whom they will explore the world around them together and frolic on walks. They treat all people good-naturedly, so the guard will definitely not come out of this breed.

If the natural instinct of the hunter is not used, the best option for the beagle will be participation in sports and regular trips to nature. For this, the puppy will need socialization.

• Huskies are friendly to people of all ages. They have a good-natured character, they are devoted, loyal and very smart. However, they need early socialization and training by an experienced dog breeder. Huskies are stubborn and sometimes strive to be a leader.

Huskies are best purchased when there is a teenager in the family. Young dogs are overly active and can be destructive, which is not safe for young children. The pet needs long walks.

• Basenji is also worth getting for an older child, with whom they will spend time on walks and organize active games. The breed is not suitable for kids, pets do not like excessive hugs and disrespectful attitude.

Such dogs need competent socialization, they cannot do without a leash for a walk – the hunting instinct is too pronounced. But the houses are quiet.

• Mini Bull Terrier – has little in common with its closest relatives (standard bull terriers), they are not characterized by aggression at all. Mini Bulls are friendly to all people and are very fond of children.

Representatives of the breed cannot stand loneliness and love to spend time in entertainment: for the sake of outdoor games, they are ready to make any concessions. They are unpretentious in care and maintenance, but you can’t do without walking with loads.

• English Bulldog – has an unflappable personality and is quite lazy. Sometimes it is the pet that has to be forced to go for a walk. The breed is suitable for a quiet measured life with small children.

The English Bulldog is patient with all expressions of love in the form of hugs. But you will have to take care of such a pet no less than a child – he has vulnerable health.

• The Border Collie is considered one of the smartest breeds. With proper training, they are able to perform not only a standard set of commands. They quickly master complex commands, as a result of which they often become winners of competitions for dogs, for example, in agility. nine0014

The pet takes care of small children, showing the instinct of a shepherd, but for a teenager, a border collie can be an excellent partner for participating in sports and other activities.

Large breeds

• Labrador – in the past accompanied the owner on the hunt, which is important to consider in the process of his socialization. It is easy to learn and with proper training becomes a devoted pet for the whole family. Able to work as a lifeguard and as a guide dog. nine0014

Calm dogs with a light and friendly disposition suitable for children of all ages. They play with pleasure and bring balls – this type of activity satisfies their hunting instinct.

• The Golden Retriever is one of the most intelligent and good-natured breeds that will become the best friend of all family members, including children. He has hunting roots, so he loves outdoor games and walks in nature.

Perfect for an active family who loves to travel. The Golden Retriever is happy to take part in any adventure together. nine0003

• Newfoundland is a good-natured dog who cannot imagine his life without communication with a person. She copes well with the role of a nanny: she protects children and steadfastly withstands not too delicate treatment of babies.

With age, dogs become less active, but the love of water remains with them for life. Newfoundlands need to be constantly combed, it is better to keep them in a country house.

• St. Bernard – has a peaceful and calm character, but the pet needs early socialization and a competent course of study. Representatives of the breed love all family members, including children.

The size of these dogs is huge, without proper education, the behavior of a pet can be destructive to the apartment. The rest of the breed is absolutely harmless.

• Collie (Scottish Sheepdog) is the perfect companion for walks, which are a must for these dogs in any weather. The collie is equally warm to all family members, loves communication, but will not impose it. nine0002 Representatives of the breed cope well with the role of a nanny for small children, but under the strict guidance of an adult. It is better suited for those who are older to share outdoor games with them.

• The German Shepherd is a versatile breed capable of serving as a guard or detective dog. In addition to service functions, it is also suitable for the role of a family pet, which will give a lot of positive emotions to children of any age. nine0002 Dogs have a balanced psyche, they are smart and obedient. German Shepherds are easy to train, so in addition to games, the child can teach the pet new commands.

• The Moscow Guard Dog is a good protector for the family and home territory. Best of all, a country house is suitable for a pet of this size, where he can show his abilities as a guard.

  Well-bred dogs in the house behave with restraint and calmness, are easy-going, always ready to join the games with children. The tricks of the kids are treated patiently, not against the neighborhood with other pets. nine0003

Which dog breeds are suitable for children with allergies

Allergy symptoms appear when an allergic person comes into contact with a certain allergen and at a certain concentration of it. As for dogs specifically, pet hair is considered a common cause of an allergic reaction to them.

The body of dogs, like other animals, secretes irritant proteins that are contained in saliva, skin, gland secretions and other secretions. These are the allergens that settle on the wool. Therefore, regardless of the quantity and quality of wool on a dog, it releases allergens. In this regard, there are no allergenic dog breeds. In addition, a pet can bring other irritants to wool from the street, such as pollen from flowering plants. Therefore, wool is considered the main enemy of an allergic person. nine0003

But there is a so-called allergenic threshold – only when it is exceeded do allergy symptoms appear. Therefore, if the child does not have an acute allergy and the attending physician does not contraindicate keeping a dog in the house, then under certain conditions keeping a dog is quite possible.

In order to reduce the amount of dog allergen in the room where the allergic child lives, there are a number of measures: washing the pet, cleaning the room, installing special air filters, reducing the time the dog stays in the children’s bedroom. It is also recommended to give preference to those breeds of dogs that practically do not shed. This is due to the peculiarities of the structure of wool or its absence. It turns out that allergens spread less around the house, without provoking an allergic reaction. nine0003

Conditionally hypoallergenic breeds include: Basenji, Hungarian Shepherd Dog (Komondor), Maltese, Hairless Chinese Crested Dog, Italian Greyhound, Samoyed Laika, Bichon Frize, American Hairless Terrier, Shih Tzu, Zwergschnauzer 9.