What's the best small dog to get, children friendly ?

11 replies

Ploufplouf · 02/04/2008 19:15

Hi all !

I'm thinking of getting a dog for my children but they are small 4 and 1. Which dog would you recommend me ?

OP posts:

Original poster

Ploufplouf · 02/04/2008 19:19

Please ?

OP posts:

ash6605 · 02/04/2008 19:23

Bichon Frise

coolkat · 02/04/2008 19:38

We got a cavalier King charles Spaniel last year and we are really pleased not to big not to small, lovely playful personality. Our daughter if 5.

Bit slow to house train but every dog varies.

lottiejenkins · 02/04/2008 19:47

Border Terrier.......
www.reviewcentre.com/reviews55019.html

ScienceTeacher · 02/04/2008 19:48

Cocker spaniel

Alambil · 03/04/2008 01:20

Schnauzer (mini!)

Remember that ANY dog is a potential danger if left untrained - no matter how "child friendly" their breed is

Qally · 03/04/2008 05:05

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They genuinely love kids, very playful and gentle, very happy to be alive - tails always on the go. Our vet says he's only known 2 nasty ones in 40 years in practice, and they're what he always recommends as family pets with small children. You do need health insurance though, as they're prone to problems. But they're the best dog for little kids because they tend to be bombproof and very willing to please. They don't need a horrendous amount of exercise, either, which is pretty vital if you're busy - those that do go a bit neurotic when deprived, poor pups.

Seconding the vital importance of training no matter the breed, though.

frootloop · 04/04/2008 14:32

i second the border terrier suggestion. we had one and she was great, plus they have very strong tails that dont mind being pulled by young children

NorthernLurker · 04/04/2008 14:35

Another vote for the Cav here - I have known several and they've always been lovely. Really nice size for a child as well - big enough to be really fun but not so big they're intimidating. I still wouldn't leave my children alone with one though - that's just a basic rule I'm afraid.

CountryGirl2007 · 04/04/2008 18:36

Every dog is an individual, contact you're local rescues/spca's and ask them if they have any suitable dogs. any good rescue will do their best to match a dog with a suitable family and vice versa.

buttercreamfrosting · 04/04/2008 18:43

Another vote for a Bichon Frise. They are very child friendly and good natured. All the ones I've ever come across have been high on life!

Flip