Which Dogs Make the Best Family Pets?
Over the centuries, dogs have become an integral part of many of our lives. From the very beginning of the domestication process, the purpose of dogs has been to make our lives easier. Well, in the twenty first century, they are still doing just that. Even though their use as working dogs has decreased, as pets they have a crucial role in our families. They give us happiness, companionship, loyalty and devotion and many people’s lives simply would not be complete without their canine friends.
If you grew up in a home with animals, you will know that a child’s first pet is a companion that will never be forgotten. Therefore, it is unsurprising that over half of families have at least one pet, and dogs are a particularly popular choice.
One reason that dogs make great family pets is that they are typically very good with children. Often, dogs view a child in the family as a cub within the pack and because their natural instinct tells them to be protective of the pack’s youngsters, they are affectionate, loving and loyal to any child in the house.
Nevertheless, there are some breeds of dog that have a better reputation with children than others. Below is a list of some of the most popular family dogs, due to their affinity with children.
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is one of the gentlest breeds of dog and has, arguably, the best reputation with children. Bred as a water dog, the Newfoundland is very intelligent. As with many large breeds, Newfies, as they are affectionately known, have a very laidback attitude and patient disposition, which makes them ideal as a family pet. Moreover, the Newfoundland’s reputation with children extends beyond a demur temperament. In fact, Newfoundlands are known to be extraordinarily protective over the children in their families.
Mastiff
Another very large dog, the Mastiff is, like the Newfoundland, a gentle giant. The Mastiff is also very intelligent and eager to please his, or her, owners. Mastiffs are very affectionate dogs that are, typically, happy to share their home with other animals. They forge a wonderful rapport with children and are known to be loyal, loving and protective of youngsters in the house.
Pug
If a large dog is not suitable for your home, then there are many smaller dogs that are known to be good with children, too. The Pug is a very popular family pet. It does not have any of the aggression that can be found in some small breeds, such as terriers, and it is extremely affectionate towards all members of the family.
Beagle
The Beagle is another ideal solution for those searching for a small dog. Beagles have a reputation for being loyal and devoted. Therefore, they make excellent guard dogs. In addition, the Beagle is intelligent and, subsequently, easy to train. Moreover, Beagles are very affection and have a calm temperament that is ideal for a household with young children.
Dalmatian
A medium sized dog, the Dalmatian is, typically, very soft with children and other animals. They are very popular family pets and, particularly, enjoy the company of energetic members of the family, because they are perpetual puppies. The Dalmatian has boundless energy and enthusiasm and will, therefore, enjoy the company of slightly older children that can play with him, or her.
Of course, there are many other breeds of dog that are excellent with children. In fact, most breeds of dog will form a strong attachment to any child in its family. However, the listed breeds have a particularly good reputation with children and are extremely popular family dogs.
Samantha Markham is a professional freelance writer, working on behalf of Remmeer.com, an online supplier of high quality and unique pet products, such as dog & puppy supplies and dog beds, bowls & toys.