Animal Companions and Their People Blog

Making the decision to adopt a dog requires a lifetime of commitment on the part of you and your family. Your dog’s care and lifelong well-being are in your hands. From socialization skills to obedience training, good nutrition and adequate exercise; regular veterinary visits and vaccinations to playtime and interaction with you – the dog is vulnerable and completely dependent upon you for all aspects of his life. His quality of life and happiness depend upon you. Before adopting a pet, think carefully as to whether you are willing and able to make this lifetime commitment and take on this responsibility. Remember, we generally outlive our pets. Like humans, they break bones, require stitches and even develop complex and terminal illnesses and disabilities. They may require medications and medical treatments similar to ours.

Children and dogs are meant to be together. They can become best friends, playmates, companions, siblings and confidants. Their bond is like no other and is both incalculable and unforgettable.

So, after you and your family have determined that you are going to adopt a dog, how do you decide which breed is right for your household? What characteristics, personality and attributes do you want your dog to have? There are certain breeds that are especially compatible and well suited to live in families or homes with children. The following breeds are playful, energetic, loyal, affectionate, protective and intelligent. Any of them would make an excellent dog for kids.

- The Labrador Retriever (Lab) is a wonderful family dog. He is patient, friendly and persevering. He is often exuberant and seemingly tireless and is almost always up for a romp. Playful and affectionate, he is also very smart and trainable.

- The Golden Retriever is confident, intelligent, kind and loyal. He is also extremely patient and affectionate as well as protective. And… He LOVES to play! Both Labrador Retrievers and Goldens are frequently used as service dogs for the blind, deaf or people with other disabilities because of their intelligence, patience, resourcefulness, friendliness, desire to please and gentleness.

- The Poodle is a very family friendly and extremely clever dog. He is gentle and good-natured, great for kids who have allergies and is also patient. He is an excellent playmate for a child.

- The Beagle is a perfect child-friendly dog. Intelligent, alert, friendly and playful, he is not too small and not too large. He is curious, inquisitive, and highly trainable.

- The Collie is a calm, intelligent and tolerant dog that is gentle and trainable. Like his movie ambassador “Lassie”, the collie is loyal, devoted, resilient and resourceful. He makes a wonderful companion.

- The German Shepherd is highly intelligent, friendly, protective and loving. He is very loyal and playful, but, because of his size and cleverness must be socialized and well trained. He is extremely sensitive, clever and resourceful and wants to please and protect his loved ones.

- The Great Dane is a gentle giant that loves children. He is kind, loyal, affectionate and patient. He seeks little more than to be loved by and to please his family.

- The Pug is a small dog that is very loving, affectionate and has a strong sense of family. He loves kids and does well with inexperienced pet owners.

- The Irish Setter is a beautiful dog known for its lovely red coat. He is playful, energetic, and very intelligent and loves being around people and children. He is also easily trainable and requires a lot of exercise.

- The Mixed Breed dog is my own personal favorite. You just can’t beat him! He is generally very intelligent, has great survival instincts, and is well-balanced and friendly. He yearns to please and to find a place in your heart, and he’s so grateful to be adopted into a loving, welcoming family. He usually loves children and is playful and full of life and energy. No doubt, he has faced adversity and even the possibility of death. If you adopt him from an Animal Shelter or Rescue Organization, you are saving a life as well as getting a GREAT family dog!

Dr. Diane Pomerance

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