e kids have been begging you for a dog, and they are all under the age of 10 and you are wondering which are the best dog breeds for young kids. Am I right? All kids beg for a dog at some point in their childhood (I know I did!) and you want to make sure you choose the right one. Bringing a puppy into your home allows you to teach and train your dog the way you want, and get him comfortable with kids, because it is all he has ever known. Here are a few of the best dog breeds to think about if you have kids under the age of 10.
Related: Best and Worst Dog Breeds for Kids
Best Dog Breeds for Kids Under 10
Boxer: These guys just love kids! A friend of mine has a Boxer and a 7 month old little girl. She posted a video the other day of her little girl playing with her dog, she was pulling on her lip and looked like she was poking her in the eye and the dog just sat there. Obviously mom was right there. And once the baby let go, the dog just licked her. He will love running and playing with the kids, and then curling up at their feet (or heads) at the end of the day. He prefers to have his family close by.
Old English Sheepdog: He is a herding dog, full of energy and great for the kids! He is a working dog by nature, so help keep his mind healthy by playing hide and seek games. Hide one of your kids and let your dog find him. He is a herding dog, so you might find him circling the kids outside or poking at them if he feels they are getting too far! He is also very friendly with other animals.
Dalmatian: A very people oriented dog, he has lots of energy to run around and keep the kids entertained! Make room for him in the evening when it’s time to wind down, he will snuggle right up to you. He would love for you to make an obstacle course in your backyard, so get the kids involved and make it a weekend project! It will keep the kids and him entertained for hours! How cool for kids to be involved in his training too?
Related: 5 Best Large Dog Breeds For Families With Kids
Golden Retriever: What kid doesn’t want a dog to play fetch with? What better breed than the Golden Retriever, I mean, it is in his name! Send the kids and K9 outside for the day and they will tire each other out. He is big yet gentle with kids and eager to please, so teach your kids the same commands you are using with him.
American Staffordshire Terrier: I have one and I love her to pieces. She has grown up with my daughter, as I was 5 months pregnant when we got her. Always gentle, watchful and protective, she has always let my daughter lay on her and with her. She loves to play too, whether it is tug-o-war or fetch, she seems to just ‘know’ that she has to be a bit gentler with the kids than she has to be with us.
It is important to also teach your kids to read the dog, listen and watch for what he is trying to tell you. You should respect a dog’s space, just as you want your space respected. Despite what you might think, he does not always want to be handled. Teaching your children this will only form a better bond between them and your dog.
What dog breeds have you had in your home with young children? Share your thoughts on different breeds with us below!
