Very family friendly dog smaller than a Labrador?

[SpringSnowdrop]

I love labradors’ easy temperament but if we ever take in a dog am not sure I want a big dog.

I absolutely love westies but just looked up a rescue site and they immediately point out they don’t like children which I never knew (our DC are very gentle and older but we often have other children round).

I’m just interested in anyone’s experience - I know each dog will very hugely but what breeds are on the whole the most easy and loyal?

SpringSnowdrop Why not become a volunteer walker for Cinnamon Trust?

You can commit to as little or as much as you like. For example, I walk a guide dog twice a week (his owner is waiting for a knee replacement so can't do the longer walks). He's a lovely, lovely dog and I enjoy it, I can swap days if I need to or miss one if I can't make it (OH having minor op so I'm not doing one of the walks this week).

Many of them are slightly older dogs, as owners tend to be older and usually are not let off the lead, so it would suit you very well, I think.

You can also volunteer for short-term fostering to cover hospital stays etc. Really recommend it.

I wouldn't be without a lab but would also recommend a greyhound or lurcher, they are so affectionate and will happily snooze all day.

I'd steer away from terriers as they can be hard to train and very stubborn.

Cinnamon trust sounds wonderful and they have a lurcher needing urgent help near to where we move to so I have saved the case number in case can help. I love that as it’s nice to help the elderly too so what a wonderful charity to know about. Thank you all so much as I’ve loved hearing about all these lovely breeds and it’s really encouraged me.

I’ve got a yorkie and he’s amazing with my kids. Doesn’t moult, either.

👍👍

Cocker spaniel. Mine looks like a mini retriever and he's soft as butter

Toy poodle my shadow, he just wants to be friends with everyone

We have a cocker and a cavalier/cocker cross. The cross has an amazing temperament, so gentle and patient. Even more so than our pure breed.
He’s almost three and has no health problems at all.
Slightly bemused by small children but always good naturedly allows plenty of hugs (we have teenage children, but have very young nieces and nephews).
Good luck in your choice.

Bedlington terrier /whippet cross, supposed to be good-natured, friendly, lively but not too much.

We have a working cocker and he is the most gorgeous, friendly and forgiving dog ever.
I love him even more since having DC as he's just so gorgeous and wonderful with them, even if he's being harassed.
They need exercise and company though. He loves everyone being together.