(Best Dog Breeds For Kids, Best Dog Breeds For Children, Best Dog Breeds For Family )
All dogs are extraordinary life companions, but not all are the same.
But which are the best dogs for Kids And for a family?
It is not a question that can be answered easily, but, let’s say it depends a lot on the lifestyle and energy of the family.
Generally, to be on the safe side, you need to look for a dog with:
- Gentle character,
- Friendly attitude,
- High level of tolerance,
- Low energy level
- Low level of dominance
- Easily trainable
Ranking of the best dogs for children and for a family
These are the best dogs for children and they normally adapt very well to family life:
- French Bulldog
- Poodle
- Pug
- Golden Retriever
- Irish Setter
- Australian Shepherd
- Collie
- Boxer
- Newfoundland
- Alaskan Malamute
Why adopt a dog suitable for the company of children?
Best Dogs for Kids – Best Dogs for a Family
One of the dilemmas that mainly afflicts dog owners and lovers from all over the world is dealing with the dog-child combination.
Although the web and social networks often offer us an idyllic vision of this relationship, perhaps preferring photos or videos that make the heart of the beholder melt, the reality is actually different.
In fact, it is not so obvious that these animals get along in love and agree with the “puppies” of us human beings, especially some races, and certain contexts can be extremely deleterious.
In order to protect first of all the physical health of the little ones (but also of the dogs) and the mental well-being of both parties, it is good to know what are the best dog breeds suitable for children.
Therefore, if you find yourself in the condition in which the choice of dog or child seems obligatory, do not despair, continue reading the article and you will find many suggestions and information to avoid making an exclusive choice and perfectly combine this family combination.
In fact, there are several breeds particularly suitable for interacting with the little ones, both to be adopted with a child already in the family and to be chosen “in anticipation” of the arrival of a newborn.
The 10 that I will present to you today all have very specific dimensions, attitudes, and peculiarities that you can rely on to understand which breed could really be right for you and respect your needs.
Think consciously about your possibilities and, despite the commitment that it will require you, you will discover the joy of having a dog by your side and your children.
Best Small Breed Dogs for Kids:
1. French Bulldog
General Characteristics Of The French Bulldog
The first of the breeds that we will examine in this article is the French Bulldog, commonly known as the French Bulldog.
This little molasses with a nice face and bat ears needs very little introduction: his adorable temperament, his playful nature, and his sweetness have made him famous all over the world.
Its small size (24 – 35 cm at the withers) hardly contains its lively personality, however, it is a breed that needs to be given a lot of attention.
Especially by virtue of his physical limitations (including several hereditary defects), he is in fact a furry friend to take extreme care of and absolutely not to be neglected to make him live a long and happy life (from 10 to 13 years).
Attitude Of The French Bulldog Towards Children
But why should the French Bulldog be a particularly suitable dog for children? The answer lies in her nature: sincere, simple, tender, playful, sometimes clumsy and confusing but always affectionate and loving.
In short, all traits that make this dog extremely similar to a child! This parallelism means that there is a natural attraction between this breed and the little ones, who look for each other and consider themselves true friends and playmates.
It is unlikely that the Bulldog will not indulge the playful thrusts of its little human companion, however, both will be educated to mutual interaction by the owner (and parent) so that they are respected in all circumstances.
The French Bulldog In The Family
The family is the first, second, and third priority of the French Bulldog, and perhaps also holds some other positions! The love he feels towards his nest is unconditionally strong, sometimes risking to turn into overprotectiveness (especially towards the little ones) or jealousy.
Consequently, it is essential that the owner knows how to look after him and devote the necessary attention to him in order to avoid problems of this nature: a bulldog jealous of the affection of others will certainly not be able to express the best of himself.
The French Bulldog With Strangers
The French Bulldog is generally considered a good warning, even if it would be really inappropriate to call it a guard dog. It is in fact an animal prone to distrust of strangers when the latter “invade” its territory.
Despite this, after a few warning barks, it is rare that it shows real hostility towards others, especially if introduced by the master to strangers.
The French Bulldog With Other Dogs
The French Bulldog is a generally friendly dog ​​with good sociability, it is difficult for it to play the role of a brawler when it relates to its own kind.
The only thing that can make him angry with other dogs is having to share the owner’s affection with them. This feature, however, as we have already noted, can be applied not only to its fellow men.
Aggression Of The French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is not really an aggressive dog.
He hardly resorts to the bite (other than as a playful interaction) and rather than acting he will voice his discontent. The only “critical” instinct that can be attributed to him is the interest in small animals.
It is certainly not a predatory dog, however its past as a mouse hunter can lead it to play around or take an interest in other little creatures.
2. Poodle
General Characteristics Of The Poodle
Even for the so-called Poodle, more properly called Toy Poodle or Dwarf depending on the size, very few introductions are needed.
These famous balls of curled fur have conquered the whole world not only for their image and their beauty (were preserved) but also for the character qualities they offer to those who care for them.
In fact, small poodles (considered toys up to 24 cm and dwarfs up to 35 cm) are dogs with excellent intelligence, easy to train, and extremely loyal to their owner and family, to which they give themselves entirely.
It is also a generally healthy and long-lived breed, capable of over 15 years of age and over, which in addition to care and attention does not require other particular efforts or involves particular complications (such as hair loss or allergies).
Attitude Of The Poodle Towards Children
The Poodle is a cheeky lover of childish companionship, especially when it comes to family puppies. His lively and active nature can only bring him closer to that of little humans, making the two become inseparable playmates and constant attention.
It is also not uncommon for the animal to develop a marked sense of protection towards the child. However, for this relationship to develop and realize at its best, both parties need to be educated in mutual interactions, perhaps children in a particular way.
Poodles are in fact delicate and sensitive dogs, for this reason, the little one must necessarily know how not to annoy him, harm him or disrespect him.
The Poodle In The Family
Toy and dwarf Poodles, as well as the whole breed, to be honest, are animals deeply linked to the family and the domestic hearth. It is no coincidence that they are perfect apartment dogs, eager to spend their time and their life in close contact with their families.
The affection that binds a poodle to loved ones is, therefore, something extremely powerful, therefore capable of giving rise to jealousy, possessiveness, and overprotectiveness. Although with upbringing and training these character sides can be a little tarnished it is necessary to understand that they are an integral part of the innermost nature of this breed.
The Poodle With Strangers
What we were talking about a moment ago is concretely realized in the relationship of poodles with strangers, always kept under control and often treated with extreme distrust.
It is no coincidence that these dogs are considered excellent warnings: their tolerance for strangers is so poor that they will often bark at them without too much concern, stopping only in front of the reassurances of the owner or, precisely, getting to know them.
The Poodle With Other Dogs
Poodles are neither intolerant nor brawling towards other dogs, they can mostly exceed in terms of vivacity or, on the contrary, distrust.
Some barking may be wasted by dogs of this breed to warn their fellowmen of its presence, however, the relationship with them should not cause too many worries.
Aggression Of The Poodle
As you may have already understood, even in this case it would be excessive to talk about aggression: poodles are not aggressive and “mangy” dogs as you would often like to paint them IF educated and treated correctly.
In fact, they will hardly resort to the bite if trained, what instead must be accepted as an inseparable trait of their personality is the marked tendency to bark.
3. Pug
General Characteristics Of The Pug
The flattened nose, the characteristic markings, the curled tail, and the trotting step: are all typical traits that have made the world of pugs fall in love with them.
The Pug is an extremely popular dog breed in fact, originally from China but selected in the last stages in Europe (mainly Great Britain) and which, thanks to its character qualities, as well as its absolutely adorable appearance, has conquered the general public.
In fact, it is not easy to find a house dog as docile, sweet, affectionate, and loyal to its owner as of the Pug. In short, a small Molosside (25 cm at the withers for females and 30 at the maximum for males) has been able to make himself loved as much as he loves his loved ones.
Slightly stubborn but still not difficult to educate, the Pug nevertheless needs a lot of attention, especially in terms of time, and specific care for any physical problems. Its life expectancy covers an average of 12-14 years.
The Pug‘s Attitude Towards Children
It is never recommended to use the word “perfect” to describe a relationship, however, for the one between Pug and human puppies, it is perhaps the closest term.
Not only is this breed playful, lively, and curious just like children, it also proves to be understanding, affectionate, patient and cooperative even towards the little ones.
In short, a real playmate capable of patiently enduring the exuberance of children and being aware of his position towards them.
The owner will certainly have to teach both the animal and the child how to behave towards others, but he can rely on a tender and natural sense of responsibility and protection inherent in the Pug.
The Pug In The Family
Similar speech to children can be made by widening the gaze to the whole family: the Pug has love, affection, and attention for all its members.
Docile, nice, and kind towards all loved ones, there are very few other dogs in the world who know how to give their affection to humans so freely.
Clearly, he will need his family members to take him into consideration and care for him as he deserves, nevertheless, the specimen of this breed will always and in any case keep them on a pedestal.
The Pug With Strangers
Unlike what one might believe, the Pug is not a dog that is particularly wary of strangers.
Despite its attachment to the family it rarely turns into something truly morbid, as a result, these dogs’ relationships with strangers tend to be quite civilized.
In addition to some warning barks, in fact, if properly introduced to the stranger by the owner, the Pug will prove to be quiet and respectful (perhaps always keeping an eye on the situation).
The Pug With Other Dogs
The Pug is an animal that really struggles not to get along with others and to be wanted badly, and the same goes for its relationship with other dogs.
In fact, he is associable with his peers as he is with humans and will be able to highlight his desire to interact and play. Rather it will be good to worry about the attitude of other dogs towards the Pug, because it will almost never be necessary.
Aggression Of The Pug
At this point, it seems obvious that it is impossible to attribute the adjective “aggressive” to the specimens of this breed.
Pugs are really docile and controlled dogs, their use of the bite (unless it is for fun) is very low and the only thing in which they could exceed, especially if a little neglected or not educated at best, is the bark.
Best medium sized dogs for children:
1. Golden Retriever
General Characteristics Of The Golden Retriever
It will be obvious to say, but dogs like the Golden Retriever are very rare to find.
In the “package” of this Scottish retriever breed, there is really everything a dog lover could want: loyalty, intelligence, dedication to their task, personality, vivacity, and a lot of affection.
In short, the Golden is one of those dogs that, if educated correctly, can truly turn your life around. It is a breed of a thousand and one qualities which, despite the good conditions, requires a lot of commitment from the owner.
First of all, these specimens need an abundant dose of both physical and mental stimuli and outbursts; the pampering and attention of the owner must never be lacking, as well as constant care of the coat and particular attention to the diet.
These beautiful animals with golden fur can also reach 61 cm in height at the hock, so an environment appropriate to their size will be necessary considering that (despite the hereditary defects) they live on average from 10 to 14 years.
Attitude Of The Golden Retriever Towards Children
The Golden Retriever is not only a dog with a marked vivacity and numerous energies, but it is also a breed that maintains a playful and childlike spirit for some time even after reaching maturity.
This feature greatly facilitates his relationship with children, favorite playmates, adventures, and attentions. The intelligence of the Golden also makes it possible to mitigate their impetuosity, giving them the ability to understand when a game is adequate or not for the child who is in front of it.
A good education in reciprocal interactions will however be necessary on the part of the owner, who, moreover, must never neglect the animal excessively in order to avoid problems of jealousy.
Golden Retriever In The Family
The Golden Retriever’s preferred environment is whichever comes first, as long as his family is with him.
Family affections are truly the greatest source of joy for this breed, which never fails to show affection to loved ones and wants nothing more than to receive the same.
There are not too many favoritisms for these dogs: the Golden ones really behave like puppies of the house and, until the last moment, they will not be able to ask for anything better than spending time with the members of their home.
Golden Retriever With Strangers
The great sociability of this breed also emerges towards strangers, who tend to be approached with curiosity and trust by Golden Retrievers.
In fact, they are not dogs suitable for carrying out a guard or warning tasks: mistrust is not part of the Golden heritage and this, depending on the point of view, can be considered both a virtue and a defect.
It all depends on your expectations.
Golden Retriever With Other Dogs
A similar discourse on the sociability of the Golden can be made with respect to the relationships it maintains with other dogs.
This breed is in fact extremely friendly and rarely gives problems, on the contrary, it will be pushed to search by its similar amusements and games in the company.
Good socialization is always recommended, however Golden Retrievers are perfect specimens to have if you don’t want to have problems with other dogs.
Aggression Of The Golden Retriever
In light of what I just told you I think you can imagine how Golden is anything but aggressive dogs.
In addition to very little use of biting and barking, their sociability and intelligence are factors that further reduce the risk of some unexpected snap.
Given his heritage as a retriever (and hunting dog), he may show interest in chasing or playing with smaller animals, even if it is not a real hunting instinct.
2. Irish setter
General Characteristics Of The Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is a dog that was selected for the art of hunting but whose great skills have made him a much sought-after life partner.
Its origin is quite obvious, however, the qualities that distinguish it are not so obvious: distinguished, sharp of intellect, loyal and affectionate towards the boss and family, energetic and well disposed to work, with a balanced temperament.
In short, with an adequate lifestyle and good training behind the Irish Setter can turn out to be a truly extraordinary dog, with a wonderful appearance and perfect for family life.
However, his size (62cm at the hock for females and 67cm for males) and his heritage do not make him an apartment dog: physical and mental exercise is essential to guarantee these dogs the standard of living they deserve.
The longevity of these magnificent brown-haired specimens is between 12 and 14 years.
Attitude Of The Irish Setter Towards Children
The Irish Setters are balanced, patient, dignified dogs but with a not indifferent playful vein: in short, the prerequisites for having excellent relationships with children are all there.
Although education in mutual relationships is always required of the owner, the intelligence of this breed allows the specimens to discern which activities could be harmful to the little ones and therefore avoid certain behaviors.
Love and affection will certainly not be lacking and, in addition to the pleasure of playing together, the Irish Setter will also develop a certain sense of responsibility and protection towards the child.
It is clear that to obtain these results, it is necessary to train the dog to supervise the first interactions between animals and children.
Irish Setter In The Family
The Irish Setter seeks companionship as well as the attention of other family members, particularly appreciating the time spent with them.
Both at home and outdoors (even if the pet’s preferences focus considerably on the latter) he will be of excellent company and will treasure the moments spent together with loved ones.
As for children, it is also probable that the Irish Setter also assumes a certain responsibility for family protection and protection, even if hardly excessive.
Irish Setter With Strangers
Although not a particularly suspicious dog, the Irish Setter will always maintain certain respect and a certain distance in approaching strangers.
There may also be some warning barking, but as long as it senses that the situation is calm, the animal will never intervene in an aggressive or overly protective manner.
A good education on the part of the owner will be able to guarantee the Irish Setter an impeccable (even if never distracted) behavior in the presence of strangers.
Irish Setter With Other Dogs
The Irish Setter is a basically sociable, collaborative, and playful dog towards his fellowmen, also by virtue of his hunting heritage as a pack.
These specimens do not even show particular tendencies to impose, which makes them more than adequate for outdoor leisure sessions in the company of other four-legged friends.
Aggression Of The Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is by no means an aggressive dog, at least not for the meaning, we tend to attribute to the term.
He only barks if necessary and only bites in dangerous situations, especially when he senses that a member of his family is being threatened by something or someone.
In that sense, no, it is not an aggressive dog.
However, the breed comes from a hunting past, and therefore it is an undeniable and immutable fact that the Irish Setter is endowed with a strong predatory instinct, a characteristic that could push him to go away and chase other animals.
3. Australian Shepherd
General Characteristics Of The Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd, or Australian Shepherd in the Italianized version, is another dog of rare beauty and magnificent gifts.
If at first glance it is certainly the physical aspect that attracts us, humans, to this extremely elegant and objectively gorgeous shepherd dog, its character is what makes us fall in love with it.
With a calm and balanced temperament, the Australian Shepherd breed can boast great loyalty and attachment to the family unit, a lot of vivacities and desire to play, as well as intelligence and obedience to be impeccably trained.
It is also a dog that enjoys good health and can live up to 14-15 years without problems, still quite modest in size (54 cm maximum for females and 58cm for males) and perfect for family life as long as give him the opportunity to exercise.
Attitude Of The Australian Shepherd Towards Children
By virtue of the not excessive size and the somewhat balanced temperament, the Australian Shepherd is an excellent breed for what concerns the interaction with children.
In fact, towards them this dog will act as with any other member of the family, that is, with gentleness and affection.
It is easy for them to develop a certain sense of protection and particular concern, which however does not preclude the possibility of becoming inseparable playmates.
Although the Australian Shepherd is a sensitive, attentive and polite dog, it is always good for the owner to take care, especially in the early days, to supervise and possibly educate the two parts to mutual interactions.
The desire to play and the vivacity of these dogs could (in a totally involuntary way) be the cause of some small accident.
Australian Shepherd In The Family
The love an Australian Shepherd feels for their family nest is second to that of very few other dogs.
The affection that this breed develops towards their loved ones is in fact sincere and boundless, which is why spending time with them will always be the favorite activity of each specimen.
In fact, despite a predilection for his owner (which, however, affects almost all dogs) he will be able to establish solid and true bonds with every member of the family, especially with those who will make him exercise and vent his energies.
Australian Shepherd With Strangers
The shepherd nature of this breed emerges, as well as in the attachment to one’s “flock”, in an innate distrust of strangers.
The specimens of this breed will tend to be cold in the first approach with any stranger, even if a minimum of introduction by the owner and good socialization upstream will be enough to make them relax in a short time.
The Australian Shepherd also reacts and acts hostile only in cases of real necessity, limiting itself to some warning in milder situations.
Australian Shepherd With Other Dogs
If well socialized, the relationship with other dogs will also be a point to brag about this breed.
In fact, Australian shepherds enjoy good relationships even with their four-legged peers, they are able to get along and collaborate without too many problems as well as to play and have fun together.
The peaceful nature of these specimens represents an upstream advantage, even if the education on the part of the owner is not something optional.
Aggression Of The Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is anything but an aggressive dog.
The breed is in fact essential and never exaggerated in the bark, not at all prone to biting and extremely controlled, above all by virtue of the ability to discern which situations require real intervention.
The only tendency that these dogs could have, otherwise extremely docile and sociable, is to chase some animal perceived as prey.
4. Collie
General Characteristics Of The Collie
The latest medium-sized dog on this list really needs no introduction. The Collie, a large sheepdog originally from Scotland, is perhaps one of the best-known and most popular dogs in the world.
His standard is perfection, both in physical and character terms. In addition to being a dog of practically unparalleled beauty, both in the hair and in the posture and in the shapes and proportions, the Collie is also an animal of extraordinary intelligence, dedicated and tireless in its task as well as a loving life partner.
In short, if there is a prototype of the perfect dog, the Collie would probably be among the favorites to fill this role. Of considerable size (up to 56cm at the withers for females and 61 for males), it is however a dog that needs a lot of attention and care.
With proper training, a comfortable environment, and the right standard of living, the Collie can reach and exceed 14-15 years of age.
Attitude Of The Collie Towards Children
The Collie, more than a real predilection for children, is an extremely responsible dog towards them.
Protective, patient, and caring, the specimens of this breed will not only be excellent playmates for the little ones but will always be on the lookout when it comes to their safety.
Obviously, the education of the owner remains necessary, but perhaps more for the little ones than for these dogs really inclined to interactions with the little ones.
Loving, playful, tolerant and extremely responsible: what more do you look for in a dog that has to live with a human puppy?
Collie In The Family
The family is the center of the affections and attentions of a Collie, who in addition to sincerely loving their loved ones will always be willing to defend them from any danger.
The loyalty of this breed is proverbial and, despite the haughty appearance, the warmth of these dogs certainly does not remain unexpressed. Despite this, Collies will need a master and family members who are never brusque towards him, as affectionate as he is an extremely respectful of his person.
These dogs are unlikely to give real disappointments, but even if they do, they will have to be reprimanded and treated with attention, care and dignity.
Collie With Strangers
The Collie, as a good herding dog and partly as a guard, is naturally wary of strangers.
He will never be friendly at the first impact with a stranger and will always worry about the safety of his loved ones, however, this (legitimate) characteristic can be filed down through special training and thanks to early socialization of the animal.
The intelligence typical of the breed, combined with the intervention of the owner, will, in any case, guarantee the dog’s behavioral balance.
Collie With Other Dogs
The Collie is not a breed that particularly enjoys the company of others of its kind unless they belong to the same pack.
This does not mean that he will show aggression or dominance towards other dogs, at the most, he will show distrust and disinterest.
Collies’ shy and shy nature make them much more inclined to the human company than canine companionship.
Collie Aggression
The Collie is not an aggressive dog, although its strong sense of protection makes it suitable for guarding and surveillance. Excellent warning, and therefore with an easy bark if not educated about it, it hardly resorts to the bite except in cases of real danger.
His very scarce biting streak could rather vent on household objects left unattended or on animals that particularly intrigue him, even if it is however rare that this happens with a well-trained and satisfied Collie.
Large dogs for children:
1. Boxer
General Characteristics Of The Boxer
We move to Germany with the wonderful breed that we will now examine: the Boxer. Boxers are extraordinary dogs: handsome and with a characteristic flattened muzzle, with a proud and muscular bearing, exceptional physical prowess, and a strong sense of duty.
In short, a specimen originally selected for hunting which, however, under the skin of the indefatigable athlete, hides (not too much to tell the truth) a secret side.
Anyone who owns one of these dogs knows perfectly well how much in reality the Boxers are tender, real family puppies who adore their loved ones and have no filters in showing it.
A mix of strength, vivacity, receptivity, and unconditional affection that must be treated with the utmost care, training him wisely, giving him adequate physical exercise, and taking care of his needs.
Boxers are certainly not featherweights (up to 59 cm at the withers for females and 63 cm for males) and for this reason, they must be made to live in an environment congenial to them and in the right way, in this way they can go up, if no later than 12-13 years of age.
Attitude Of The Boxer Towards Children
It is no coincidence that the specimens of this breed are considered babysitting dogs: Boxers love children and develop an extremely strong feeling of protection for them.
It is very likely that the little ones become the favorite protected by these dogs, aware of their size and consequently very careful and delicate in their interactions with them.
The education of the owner is always required for this purpose, but the natural predisposition of the Boxer in this context is absolutely remarkable.
With children that are no longer so young, the specimens of this breed will be able to play for hours and hours without ever getting tired, having fun freely and safely.
Boxer In The Family
As already mentioned, the love that Boxers feel towards their families is truly boundless. They will dedicate body and soul to them, even if they will rightly expect pampering, attention, and affection in return.
It will bind itself to each member of its pack in a particular and special way, but what it will all share is the equal sense of protection (and sometimes of jealousy, even if to be avoided) that the Boxer will develop towards them.
Boxer With Strangers
The Boxer is a dog on average wary of strangers, and adopts the philosophy of “trusting is good but not trusting is better”.
For this reason, when a stranger approaches his territory, it is easy for him to make his voice heard and show himself in all his powerful presence.
The fact remains that, if socialized from an early age and introduced to a person not known by their master, the specimen of this breed will be able to calm down and soften.
In cases of perceived danger, however, it is good to keep this in mind: the Boxer will not hesitate to intervene in defense of their loved ones, even with bad ones.
Boxer With Other Dogs
A sore point of the breed is perhaps the relationship with its fellow men, especially in some particular cases. Although Boxers are neither antisocial nor rowdy, as they grow up (especially males) they tend to establish themselves as the dominant figure in the pack.
For this reason, with dogs of the same sex and similar size, they may not get along at all and sometimes come to conflict. Such situations must obviously be avoided by the master.
Aggression Of The Boxer
The Boxer is neither an aggressive nor a biting dog as many belief. Granted the fact that education, socialization, and training are the three fundamental pillars for the behavioral balance of the dog, it should be emphasized how the presumed aggression of this breed is evident in very specific situations, linked in particular to potential danger.
The protective side of the Boxer is not something changeable or correctable, as well as his hunting instinct: curiosity and hunting dog heritage could lead him to take an interest in some creature that catches his attention.
2. Newfoundland
General Characteristics Of The Newfoundland
It is difficult not to recognize this dog so characteristic: thick coat, good-natured and reliable expression, deep voice, and, above all, impressive size.
We are talking about Newfoundland, a dog breed with very ancient origins but developed (rather than selected) right on the cold Canadian island from which it takes its name.
Newfoundlands have always been used as working dogs: four-legged giants who helped fishermen haul their nets ashore, rescue the fallen at sea, and sometimes discourage other animals or ill-intentioned people from approaching their owners’ properties.
However, under the appearances of this titan hides a sweet and gentle soul, tender, affectionate, patient, and extremely calm. The meekness of the Newfoundlands is proverbial, as is the attachment to their family and the need to spend a lot of time together.
For this reason, it is not a simple breed to look after: in fact, not indifferent spaces and frequent physical exercise are needed to make these animals live at their best from over 70cm at the withers (females a little less) which, if treated correctly, can live among the 8 and 12 years old.
Attitude Of The Newfoundland Towards Children
Although the size can be intimidating, Newfoundland is among the best dogs in the world to combine with the company of a child. Given that a previous education by the owner is always needed, the natural attitude towards these specimens towards the little ones is extraordinary.
Sweetness, patience, understanding, and, why not, a great desire to play are all characteristics that the Terranova is able to express and put at the service of the child.
In addition, in addition to the attention that the dog will pay not to make movements that could injure the child, it will develop a strong sense of responsibility and protection towards the little one, who will never run any real risk if his Newfoundland is next to him.
Newfoundland With The Family
It is not difficult to understand how the Terranova can approach the family. Meekness, loving-kindness, and loyalty are constants that these dogs will never fail their human companions.
The Newfoundland will never be ashamed to express the deep attachment that binds him to his family nest, especially if the members of the latter know how to treat him with equal affection and dignity.
Newfoundland With Strangers
Newfoundland adopts an approach that tends to be wary of strangers. It is not an aggressive dog, but when faced with a stranger who gets too close to its territory it will not hesitate to show itself in all its size and make its thunderous bark heard.
Given the existence of this prudent vein, so to speak, it should also be specified that with the right socialization the Newfoundland will quickly learn to distinguish real strangers and family friends, with whom it will be able to relate in an extremely welcoming way.
Newfoundland With The Other Dogs
Despite its size and its heritage in close contact with man, the Newfoundland is a breed that tolerates well and appreciates the company of its fellow men.
It is not a dog inclined to imposition and dominance, therefore it manages to get along with other four-legged friends without too many problems.
A good socialization process is however necessary to bring out this breed quality in the best possible way.
Aggression Of The Newfoundland
Needless to say, Newfoundland is by no means an aggressive dog. It is a breed generally reluctant to use the bite, if not the cases of high tension or with a playful attitude, and its gentle nature should be a guarantee.
On the other hand, he does not disdain to give voice to his powerful and deep bark to warn the master of unwanted presences, as well as he could occasionally chase some pet that intrigues him.
3. Alaskan Malamute
General Characteristics Of The Alaskan Malamute
Often confused with its cousin Husky, the Alaskan Malamute is one of the most famous, large, and certainly ancient sled dogs that have survived to this day. Its origins are in fact very ancient and are deeply linked to the Arctic territories of Siberia and then to North America.
What is permeated up to now, however, is the characteristic physical appearance, characterized by thick hair and evident tan markings on the white, denoted by a preponderant physical prowess, bone solidity, and muscular explosiveness.
Strength and endurance are in fact the characteristics that were sought in these dogs, used to carry heavy loads for long journeys (not marked by speed like their cousins).
Alaskan Malamutes are dogs with a strong and tempered character, extremely dignified, sometimes stubborn, and proud. However, the breed is also capable of giving great affection and guaranteeing a profound loyalty towards the owner and the whole family, which in turn will have to carefully accommodate the physical and psychological needs of these specimens.
Of considerable size (up to 59cm for females and 64 for males), to reach 12-13 years of age the Alaskan Malamutes must lead a lifestyle appropriate to their signs.
Attitude Of The Alaskan Malamute Towards Children
The Alaskan Malamutes, despite the apparent coldness that seems to distinguish them from the outside, love the company of children and they often take charge of them.
The owner will have to carefully educate the dog about interactions with the little ones, but the playful streak inherent in the breed will tend to facilitate the process.
If the owner will be able to educate the child well to the relationship with the dog and avoid any jealousy on the part of the latter, the Alaskan Malamute will become a real guardian angel of the child, who will protect at all costs from any danger.
Alaskan Malamute In The Family
The combination of affection and dignity is what most helps to understand the approach of the Alaskan Malamutes to the family. It is in fact a breed strongly attached to the family nest, loving, loyal, and really satisfied by the interaction with their dearest loved ones.
At the same time, it does not tolerate chaotic environments, attempts at imposition, and scoldings that other breeds tolerate: pride and dignity are highly developed character traits in these dogs.
To have an Alaskan Malamute as gentle, loving, and expansive as possible, it will therefore be necessary to demonstrate these qualities first and foremost towards the animal.
Alaskan Malamute With Strangers
The historical and frequent contact with the man has made the Alaskan Malamutes generally tolerant towards strangers, even if without adequate socialization this trait may not express itself at its best.
While it is not a proper watchdog, it will be quite curious about any strangers who enter its territory and will keep a close eye on it until it is confirmed that it is a friendly presence.
Alaskan Malamute With Other Dogs
Even in relation to its peers, the evolutionary legacy of the Alaskan Malamute contributes to making it a moderately reliable dog.
The habit of living in close contact with other four-legged companions has made this breed quite tolerant and actually eager to have fun in company with their own kind.
Good socialization is however necessary if you want to avoid problems related to the imposition of the pack leader, especially with dogs of similar size and of the same sex.
Aggression Of The Alaskan Malamute
Although the Alaskan Malamute is not an aggressive dog, in situations of particular nervousness or danger it could react very drastically.
It is not a biting breed per se, but a good education aimed at self-control can only benefit these dogs and their temperament.
Moreover, it is almost devoid of predatory instinct and, rather than barking, will tend to howl to communicate needs and moods to the master.
What to keep in mind before adopting a child-friendly dog?
So here we are at the end of this list of breeds which, despite their singular peculiarities, are well suited to the company of children.
You will have noticed by yourself that, although the propensity of all these dogs to the company of children is evident, there are some that, in certain situations and for particular needs, maybe more adequate than others.
There is nothing wrong with any of this and indeed, this is where you come in.
In fact, it is up to you to evaluate and choose with a critical spirit which breed is best for you, reflecting on what you want the dog to give you but above all on WHAT YOU ARE ABLE TO GIVE TO THE DOG!
Be responsible and aware of your choice, since the dog you decide to adopt must be treated to the best of your ability, it must be provided with means and care appropriate to its nature and, above all, it must not be neglected or abandoned to itself in function some children.
Respect is always the basis of any relationship with a dog that you will take with you, to whatever breed it belongs.
In summary:
- Consistently evaluate your situation (number of family members, domestic spaces, time available, etc.) for the choice of the breed;
- Do not consider the dog as a mere babysitter, to better express his personality with the little ones he will need (as well as the child) to be introduced to that type of relationship;
- Do not neglect the specific needs and requirements of the dog;
- Do not try to distort the dog or impose roles for which it is not suited: each breed has its own peculiarities that must be valued rather than castrated;
- Provide to socialize, educate and train your dog, ALWAYS.
As a final note, I would like to point out that, in case you need advice and indications for the first education to give to your dog, you can rely on my very personal dog training course.
It is a manual written by my hand on the basis of years of experience as a dog lover (as well as a dispassionate lover of dogs), based on simple and essential but effective lessons, concretely tested in the field and the result of years of trial and error.
I highly recommend you take a look at the course webpage, I’m sure it might be right for you.
Having said that I have really finished!
There is nothing left for me to do but thank you for your attention, hope you have been of help and wish you a good choice and a good life together with the dog you’ve always dreamed of.
In it, you will find a best friend and a faithful companion for your children, be sure of it.
Thanks and see you next time!
A hug.
