Suppose you have children and you love animals. In that case, you probably already know that animals can be massively beneficial for children when it comes to teaching your kids empathy, a love for animals. They can even help your children develop specific skills such as responsibility, leadership, and even social skills. While there’s no doubt that getting a family pet is a great idea, choosing the right dog breed is essential as some breeds are simply not suitable for active youngsters.
As important as choosing the right breed, you should also be aware of the responsibilities of having a pet as the adult in the house. You will need to take your pet for all the necessary vaccinations and annual checkups at Paoli Vet veterinary hospital or a veterinary hospital near you. You will also need to ensure your new pet has all the essentials such as quality puppy food, a dog bed, feeding and drinking bowls, and of course, a few toys. With that said, these are the best small dog breeds to consider for children.
Beagle
Beagles are adorable small breed hunting dogs, and they are well-known for their pack habits and friendly nature. These short-haired dogs are perfect for children as they are energetic and love playing while also not known to be violent. Most pet lovers stand together to insist that violence and aggression are hardly associated with the breed, and more so the method of raising the dog. However, certain small breeds such as the tiny chihuahua are known to be a little on-edge by nature and less suitable for children as a result.
Cocker Spaniel
The cocker spaniel is an exceptionally beautiful dog breed with a fluffy golden coat, floppy ears, and playful eyes. These dogs make the ideal companion for young children as they are extraordinarily easy-going and well-socialized by nature.
Jack Russel
Jack Russells are among the most intelligent small breed dogs, and they are also highly energetic, making them an excellent match for active youngsters. However, your Jack Russel will need ample playtime due to their high levels of energy and intelligence, as lack of stimulation can turn these pups into destroyers of all your possessions if boredom kicks in.
Cairn Terrier
The cairn terrier is probably best known as the dog breed that played Dorothy’s pup Toto in The iconic 1993 film, The Wizzard of Oz. While not all terriers are good choices for kids, this adorable breed is an excellent fit for children of all ages. The cairn terrier can be identified by its golden brown fuzzy coat of fur, pointy ears, and upright tail.
Boston Terrier
The Boston terrier is another terrier that makes a great companion for children due to its playful nature and high intelligence. The animated-looking dog breed makes for a most loyal and devoted companion, and their compact size means they are even ideal for smaller homes.
When choosing a pet for your family, you should consider factors such as the size of your home, the amount of time you and your children will have to entertain and bond with the pup, and your budget. What’s more, you don’t have to purchase a pure-bred dog as you can also consider adorable and loving puppies from your local shelter that need a loving home.
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