How to Choose a Dog for Children
Shannon Emmanuel
Since having a dog is such a common thing, do you really need to
know anything more than how much it costs?
Well, how did you choose your car, or your home? Did you consider
the cost, safety and suitability for your family? Of course you
did. If you heard stories of a particular car that was
susceptible to causing accidents or that a neighborhood was known
for its rough occupants you would find something that was safer.
If the car or home was too expensive to maintain, it would impact
your decision, as would the size of the vehicle or how many
bedrooms the house had.
However, many people bring home a dog that they have spent no
more time in choosing than selecting oranges at the grocery
store. Although we hear stories of dogs attacking children and
perhaps know of people who got rid of dogs after they grew too
large for the apartment or destroyed property, as a group,
parents still choose to bring dogs into their families with
little instruction or research.
The truth is, most families with a dog will never deal with the
terrible situations we hear about on the news. Dogs love people.
Most dogs love children. Children and adults love dogs and it is
very doubtful that after thousands of years the connection
between canine and humankind will be broken.
What does need to be considered is how to make the best possible
environment for your children and dog so that you don't need to
worry about unexpected tragedy or the sad disappointment of
giving your children’s pet away.
There are many experts with various views, but several points can
be generally agreed upon when choosing a dog for your family.
Find a dog that is good with children.
Don’t all dogs love children? The answer is simple – NO. Some
breeds, and even individuals within a breed, are more or less
tolerant of children and the rough handling that usually ensues.
Selecting a breed that enjoys the rambunctious atmosphere of a
family home will go far in ensuring that the children have a
willing playmate and the dog is happy.
Choose a dog that is the right size or energy level.
Do you live in an apartment? Do you have a large, fenced yard?
Considering the size of home or yard you have should influence
your choice of dog. Some breeds are naturally larger than others.
Some smaller breeds (like Jack Russell Terriers) are small but
have an enormous amount of energy that can be difficult to
control in a small home.
Decide on a trained or untrained dog.
Perhaps you plan to train the dog yourself. You may choose a
puppy so the children participate in the training process. But
how much do you know about training dogs? Are you ready for the
hassles of housebreaking and obedience training? Perhaps
selecting an older, trained dog might suit your family better.
The decisions you make before bringing your dog home and
selecting the best dog breed for children will help your family
enjoy their new pet for a very long time.
Shannon Emmanuel is a freelance writer and the author of 'How to
Select the Best Dog or Puppy for Your Children'. Find out more
about safely raising a family dog at
http://www.best-dog-breed-for-children.com
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