Dogs in a family with small children are often put through some tough tests. The family dog should enjoy children and playing so much that it will tolerate endless handling and affection with no nips and growls. The best dog for a family with children is a dog that is large enough and physically strong enough. These types of dog with a gentle temperament usually also demonstrate huge amounts of affection, so get ready to have lots of  dog licks and kisses for both adults and children.

Before bringing a new dog home it is a good idea for the entire family or household to meet the dog at the breeder or shelter. Don’t be shy about asking the breeder or shelter person if he/she believes that the dog is a good match for your family. A breeder or shelter attendant will read animal cues quickly where family members might miss certain cues in the excitement and cause them to make an incorrect assumption. It is important to make a good match because you will all be sharing many years together. Like any relationship, being well suited, helps make life easier.

 

Having a dog can be a messy prospect. To help cut back on this many dog owners want dogs that don’t shed. Some of these breeds can be expense but it is a good investment. There are non shedding dog breeds in a variety of sizes. Some of the large dogs include the Airedale Terrier, Giant Schnauzer, Standard Poodleor the Portuguese Water Dog. Remember that because they don’t shed they do need to be groomed regularly. The time and cost should be considered before deciding on a breed.

If there are no young children in the household, a small dog is often a better fit. Again, if it is important that the dog does not shed, seek out small dogs that don’t shed like poodles, Yorkshire Terriers or Shih Tzus. Some of the most popular dogs for families vary as much as families vary, so try to arrange a meeting with your new family member before it comes home with you and get expert input from the professional observing the interaction between you and your new dog. If you have questions or want more information visiting a website like A Place To Love Dogs can be a valuable resource.

For dog lovers, a home without a dog is a lonely place. Good feelings are better with a dog to share the happiness. Loneliness and sadness are comforted with a dog responding and coming to your side. You are the centre of their world. Once a dog and its owner(s) have bonded they become important parts of each other’s lives. A wagging tail and beating heart are sometimes all that matter.