Is it easier to have small or big dogs while raising kids?
Posted by Admin | Posted in Uncategorized | Posted on 17-07-2009-05-2008
1
I LOVE big dogs, but I have always had small- medium dogs because they do better running around the house and wear out easier on walks.
However, I am realizing that my theory is not accurate as some smaller dogs, like say a beagle are just have crazy energy and some bigger dogs, like Newfoundland dogs are lazy.
Am I wrong to avoid bigger dogs while I have kids due to thinking that they are higher maintence?
As a serial multiple dog owner I have had both large and small dogs while raising kids.
Managing kids and dogs is hard. I find larger dogs are more taxing in their needs and do find small dogs much easier, but you do have to be selective, I guess, just as you would have to be to find a big dog trustable with children. If you get a small dog from rescue you have the chance to know their character before bringing one home.
Other than that, if you desire a puppy that will grow up small, then really study your breeds. I have found the spaniel breeds tend to be easy going and laid back and do well with kids. I have a Tibetan Spaniel/Cavalier mix who tolerates all the pulls and rough play from toddlers that can be thrown her way. I had a pure Tibbie in the past who was the same. I also have a purebred Cavalier Spaniel who tolerates a lot and doesn’t ever nip, but prefers not to be bothered by children if they are being rough, and retires to his crate to avoid them.
I know as well a couple of Shih Tzus the same way (not the tiny kind, but the originally sized 14 pound ones) and also a Shih Tzu/Bichon cross and a Cocker Spaniel that are amazing with kids. I do also know dogs of these breeds/mixes who are not. To get a small dog that is predictable in temperament, though, you REALLY need to get one from a good breeder who is temperament screening. Too many unscrupulous breeders of pure and mixed are not weeding out the bad temperaments which gives many small dogs a bad rap.
. . . and big or small, dogs and kids should always be supervised while they are together.
Please do not ever purchase a puppy, pure or mixed, from someone breeding in bulk, or from a breeder not doing the proper health testing on the parents, or caring for them as you would want your own pet cared for.