(SEO article written for eBay)
All dog breeds have the potential to make great family pets. But some breeds, because of their temperament, energy levels, and size, make them especially good dogs for families with children. Here are the 10 best dogs breeds for kids.
Any family looking to get a dog should honestly evaluate their lifestyle and their wants when looking at dog breeds. A family that likes nothing better than to snuggle on the couch watching movies might not want a dog that craves vigorous activity, while a family that’s always on the go might not want a small dog that just can’t keep up.
It’s also important to think about where the dog will come from. Shelters and rescue groups have lots of dogs of all breeds available for adoption. There are also reputable dog breeders with AKC certification who can vouch for their dogs’ parentage, temperament, and health.
1. Newfoundland
Despite its size, the Newfoundland’s calm disposition makes it a wonderful family dog. It is loving, gentle and loyal. Affectionately known as the “Nanny dog”, the Newfoundland is naturally very protective of children. It doesn’t need a lot of exercise, but, because of its large size, it does need a fair amount of room, both indoors and out. It tends to drool and needs a lot of grooming, as it has a double coat that sheds a lot.
2. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers were originally bred for duck hunting, but their intelligence, energy, and gentle nature have made them the most popular dog breed in America. They come in yellow, chocolate and black. They have short hair, and sturdy, muscular bodies. They’re easily trained and can participate in many activities, including hunting, agility, and obedience. They also make wonderful service dogs. Labs need regular mental and physical stimulation to keep them out of trouble.
3. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is a gentle and happy dog with a thick, water-resistant coat and feathered tail. Goldens are easily trained, and patient with children, which makes them a popular family pet. They’re very friendly with people and with other animals, and, consequently, make terrible watchdogs. They need regular brushing to keep their fur from getting matted and to keep their shedding down.
4. Beagle
Beagles are small, tri-colored, shorthaired dogs with droopy ears and soulful eyes. They’re intelligent, happy and energetic. They get along well with other dogs and are great with children. They’re quite vocal, with a mournful howl, and being, hounds, tend to follow their noses. Consequently, they may not be the best choice for apartment living. Rather, they do better in a house with a fenced-in yard and owners who enjoy spending time playing outdoors and working their dogs. Beagles make wonderful tracking and agility dogs.
5. Pug
The Pug is a lovable little clown. Either fawn or black in color, pugs have short, wrinkly muzzles and huge, expressive eyes. They have stocky, muscular bodies. Their small size and quiet nature make them a good choice for apartment dwellers. Despite being small, they have lots of energy and love to play. They get along well with humans of all ages and with other animals. Because of their flat faces, they don’t do well in extremes of heat or cold and they tend to snort and snore – a trait pug lovers find absolutely endearing. Children do need to be careful of pugs’ protruding eyes.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a sweet, loving and loyal little dog known for its happy disposition and constantly wagging tail. It’s intelligent and easy to train, and it gets along well with both people and animals, making it a great choice for a family pet. It has moderate exercise needs and does well in apartments.
7. Collie
Although they aren’t as popular as they once were, Collies are wonderful dogs for children. They are sweet, mild-mannered and loyal. They are very intelligent and easy to train, and they are gentle and naturally protective of children. They also get along well with other animals. They do have a strong herding instinct, however, and may try to herd children. They need to be trained not to do this.
8. British Bulldog
British Bulldogs have short, stocky bodies, wrinkly faces and an endearing underbite. They’re loyal and gentle, and love being with their people. Their small size and low energy levels make them a good choice for people with sedentary lifestyles or small living spaces. They also have minimal grooming needs. However, because of their flat faces, they tend to drool and snore, and they don’t do well in extremes of heat or cold.
9. Boxer
Boxers are medium-sized dogs with short hair, muscular builds, and very expressive faces. They’re intelligent, very playful and very energetic. They love companionship and are good with children. They do need a lot of exercise to prevent them from becoming destructive.
10. Heinz 57
Mixed-breed dogs tend to have less health and behavioral problems than purebred dogs. And shelters are bursting at the seams with mixed-breed puppies and dogs for adoption. Shelters typically perform extensive behavioral tests and are very careful about adopting out dogs to families with children. A mixed-breed dog could make a wonderful family pet.
Finding Dog-Related Products on eBay
People looking to buy or adopt a dog will find just about everything they need for them on eBay: leashes and collars, bedding, crates, brushes, bathing supplies, food, treats, toys, information on training, and more. New dog owners should do their research and have all of the necessary supplies ready before they bring their dog home. By searching for dog supplies, and then narrowing down their selections using the menu, dog lovers can find just about everything they need – or want. Before committing to a purchase on eBay, it’s important for buyers to check sellers’ ratings, as well as their shipping and return policies, to ensure a positive shopping experience.