Choosing a dog for your children is not a decision to take lightly. Selecting the wrong pet can cause headaches and heartache down the road. The good news is that most canines are naturally well-suited for kids since both enjoy games and exploring new ground. They usually get along well from the moment they meet. In fact, many kids eventually look to their canine companions as their best friends, and even confidants.
That said, taking a few precautions is important. With this in mind, we'll share six tips for choosing a dog that makes a perfect complement for your family.
1 - Adults Should Choose The Pet
Many parents allow their kids to choose the canines they want to adopt. This is a bad idea since few children have experience with dogs. Fewer still will research the various breeds and the known disorders (e.g. ear infections, hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, etc.) from which each suffers. Hence, they won't know about each breed's personality quirks, grooming needs, or temperament around kids.
Take it upon yourself - along with your partner, if applicable - to select the canine you adopt for your children. Doing so will help you avoid adopting a pet that poses future problems.
2 - Consider The Size Of The Animal
The Humane Society recommends waiting until your kids are at least six years of age before you adopt a dog. Even at this age, however, a large breed can easily knock a child over. If a large pet is especially active, he may inadvertently harm your child. For example, a Saint Bernard or Old English Mastiff can become too aggressive during play, exposing your son or daughter to injury.
3 - Avoid Adopting A Puppy
A lot of parents adopt puppies for their children, believing they present less danger. After all, puppies are small. The problem is, they are more likely to scratch, bite, and behave in a rambunctious manner, than adult canines. Unless they have received training at an early age, they have yet to learn which behaviors are undesired and inappropriate.
Adult dogs are usually more relaxed. If they have received training and socialization, they tend to be gentle around children. Many will instinctively position themselves as their protectors in the presence of strangers.
4 - Choose A Personality That Complements Your Kids
We noted earlier that most breeds are naturally friendly toward children. But some have personalities that are particularly well-suited for young people. For example, Standard Poodles are smart and moderately active dogs. While they have large frames, they seem to understand their size presents a danger. Boxers are known to enjoy the company of their families, establishing close bonds with each member. Beagles are even-tempered, an important trait when exposed to active kids. They also enjoy playing games.
Think of the personality of the canine you adopt. The American Kennel Club maintains a useful database that includes temperament and related characteristics for each breed.
5 - Train The Dog
Once you adopt a canine, enroll him into professional training classes, or invest the time to train him at home. If you choose the latter route, manage the sessions yourself. It's fine, and even recommended, to involve your kids, but do not leave them alone with the dog.
6 - "Train" Your Children
As important as training is for your canine, it's equally important to teach your kids how to treat their new pet. Young children often lack the experience to know what is appropriate and what is not. Consequently, they might pull the dog's ears and tail, or play too roughly, all of which may test the animal's patience. Teach them to handle the canine humanely and gently. This will encourage respect from their pet as well as help them form a stronger bond.
Kids and dogs can quickly establish friendships that last a lifetime. The suggestions above will support this process while preventing unnecessary problems.
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