{"id":1705,"date":"2019-08-08T09:03:37","date_gmt":"2019-08-08T14:03:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wp-secure.iseeme.com\/?p=1705"},"modified":"2019-07-15T11:39:52","modified_gmt":"2019-07-15T16:39:52","slug":"how-to-find-the-best-dogs-for-kids-and-families","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wordpress.iseeme.com\/blog\/2019\/08\/08\/how-to-find-the-best-dogs-for-kids-and-families\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Find the Best Dogs for Kids and Families"},"content":{"rendered":"

Once you\u2019ve decided to get a pet, it\u2019s important to find the most child-friendly dog breed for your family.\u00a0<\/span>To find the best dog, consider\u00a0<\/span>your family\u2019s lifestyle,\u00a0<\/span>wants, and needs. If you have\u00a0<\/span>a newborn in the house, you\u2019ll want the best dog breed for babies.\u00a0<\/span>If you live an active lifestyle, you\u2019ll want a playful pet that can go with you on adventures.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Take some of these questions into consideration: Do we want a small or big dog? Do we need an energetic or mild-tempered dog? Which dog breed is best for small children?\u00a0<\/span>Although finding a pet can be a lengthy process, it\u2019s also fun and rewarding to add a furry friend to your family!\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Dogs can teach kids about compassion, responsibility, and teamwork. These lovable pals are perfect playmates for your kids, offering comfort and unconditional love. Add some\u00a0<\/span>floofy<\/span>\u00a0love to your home and find the best family dog. And when you\u2019ve found your pet, create a\u00a0<\/span>personalized dog book<\/span><\/a>\u00a0that has your dog\u2019s pictures and kids<\/span>\u2019<\/span>\u00a0names in the story!\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

To help you find the perfect pup for your growing family, we interviewed veterinarian Dr. Laura Ferris. Dr. Ferris answers our questions about which dog breeds may be right for your kids and your family situation. See our\u00a0<\/span>Dogs for Kids Guide<\/span>\u00a0below and\u00a0<\/span>give thoughtful consideration to<\/span>\u00a0finding your future pet!<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

How to Find the Best Dogs for Kids and Families<\/h1>\n\"best\n

What\u00a0factors should families consider when looking for a dog?<\/h2>\n

There are many different factors to consider when choosing a dog breed that is right for you and your family.<\/span>\u00a0Dr. Laura Ferris explains what families\u00a0<\/span>should think about before adding a furry friend to their home.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Factor #1:\u00a0Will your pet fit your living situation?<\/h2>\n

According to Dr. Ferris, \u201c<\/span>One of the first things to consider is where you live. Do you live in an apartment or a house? If you live in a small apartment, you may want to avoid the more active breeds such as the retrievers<\/span>\u00a0or\u00a0<\/span>shepherds and<\/span>\u00a0consider the more \u201ccouch potato\u201d breeds that require less exercise such as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Barking is a consideration also. While any dog has the capacity to bark,<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>breeds such as the English bulldog or the Boston Terrier tend to be quieter.<\/span>\u201d\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Factor #2:\u00a0Can you accommodate a dog\u2019s activity needs?<\/h2>\n

Another consideration, according to Dr. Ferris, \u201c<\/span>is if you have access to an exercise area for your dog. Do you have a large fenced in yard or do you live in the middle of a city?<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Think about your lifestyle right now and how much time will you have to devote to your dog. Certain breeds such as the Border Collie, Australian Cattle Dog, the German Shepherd, and the Golden Retriever will need lots of exercise, while other breeds such as the Bichon\u00a0<\/span>Frise<\/span>, Dachshund, and Maltese do not need as much.<\/span>\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Factor #3:\u00a0Will this pet fit your lifestyle?<\/h2>\n

Think about your own experience with pets and what is best for your family. When choosing a dog breed, be mindful of how this dog will fit into your day-to-day routine. Ask yourself these questions from veterinarian Dr. Ferris: \u201cAre you an experienced dog owner? Do you have any other pets in the house (cats, dogs, bird, critters?) Think about the personality of the dog you would like. Do you want a dog that will be protective, friendly with strangers, or friendly with everyone? If you are the parent of a small child, consider a dog that is more friendly with everyone.<\/span>\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Factor #4:\u00a0Can you commit to a dog\u2019s needs and pet costs?<\/h2>\n

Dr. Laura Ferris notes that a dog\u2019s upkeep, including food and veterinary care, is one of the most important factors to consider. \u201cA Great Dane eats quite a bit more food than a\u00a0<\/span>C<\/span>hihuahua! Research potential health risks associated with each breed and be sure you are prepared to handle the cost of veterinary care when it is needed. Grooming costs and at-home grooming care should be considered also. Several breeds such as the German Shepherd, Siberian Husky, and even the Pug have reputations for being quite the shedders. While most dogs shed, you may want to look for a breed with a shorter coat if you want to deal with less amounts of fur. You could even consider a hairless breed like the Chinese Crested or the Xoloitzcuintli!\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

How to research the best dog for your family<\/h2>\n

Choosing the right dog for your family is a huge decision. Luckily, there is tons of information online to help you in your search. Some useful websites are:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n