Everyone knows that dogs are man’s best friend. This does not necessarily go the same way for children. Dogs don’t always love children back, no matter how much attention they give them. This is because dogs have their own personalities just like humans do. Some love being the center of attention, others hate it. Some are independent, others follow 
their owners everywhere and cannot handle being alone. Some love to play, other like to sleep all day and will not react positively to rough play. When choosing a dog, these factors must be taken into consideration no matter what. It is essential for potential owners to research dog breeds before adopting/purchasing. Just because a puppy looks cute doesn’t mean it will grow up to be a family friendly dog.
Most children have an abundance of energy. They love playing and learning. Animals provide them with a sense of amusement and will either excite them or scare them at first. Families should find a dog that is not startled by excitement or fear. If the child is afraid of it, slowly introduce them. It may take a few days to get used to. Never rush the introduction because if either one is frightened, it could have some devastating results. Dogs do have the instinct to bite when they become scared or nervous to protect themselves even if your child means no harm.
Dogs that are exposed to kids must have gentle personalities. Although children can be extremely playful, they are small and can be knocked over easily by an excited dog (if it is large enough). “Gentle” doesn’t have to mean that the dog is completely calm because that would be no fun for the kids, but make sure that it can play without becoming aggressive. The ability to be patient is another trait that family friendly dogs have. They can tolerate rough play and mistreatment by children without reacting. Just be sure that your kids don’t hurt the dog, otherwise it might become scared and annoyed of them.
After choosing a dog that will accomodate your family, you must help to maintain its personality. Dogs need to be walked outside daily so they can release their energy healthfully instead of destroying your house or biting your child. It may be appropriate to take your dog to obedience school in order get him/her properly trained with the help of a professional.
They need to be fed the right foods in the right amounts to prevent obesity. Also, dogs that are exposed to children should be groomed regularly because fleas and ticks can be transferred to them easily. A dirty dog will create an unhealthy environment that children should not live in. It is also important to make sure your dog is getting enough rest throughout the day. If you buy a puppy, expose it to other animals at an early age so they do not have social problems later. Today, families tend to have busy lives. If this is the case with your family, it might be best to hold off on purchasing a dog. Dogs need enough attention throughout the day, otherwise they will try to gain your attention with negative actions such as barking constantly or going to the bathroom on the carpet.
Now that you know the basics of choosing and caring for a family friendly dog, I will provide you with a list of several popular dogs for families. Not all of these will be appropriate for every family which is why it’s important to research them first.
- Golden Retriever
- Labrador Retriever
- Standard Poodle
- Beagle
- Collie
- Bloodhound
- Pembroke Welsh Corgi
- Pug
- English Cocker Spaniel
- Newfoundland
Here is a list of dogs to be cautious of, because they do not always have tolerant personalities and may be destructive in households with children:
- Chihuahuas
- Chow Chow
- Doberman
- Terriers
- Akita
- Rottweilers
- Pitbulls