Choosing a Dog for Your Family
When it comes to getting a family dog, it can be a confusing decision to make on what breed. After all, when it comes to purebred dogs, the American Kennel Club recognizes 192 separate breeds. Some people make the mistake of buying a puppy or adult dog that is their favorite breed, but this isn’t necessarily a good decision, especially when children are involved. Following are some suggestions and questions you should ask yourself that may help make that decision safer and happier for everyone involved when buying a family dog.
Important Questions to Ask When Searching for a Family Dog
Just as people aren’t all alike, neither are dogs. Some are more social than others. One of the questions you might want to be answered before you settle on what dog to bring into the family includes:
- Is this a social breed of dog? Not all dogs are social and friendly with all the members of the family. Some dogs prefer only one person, such as the Collie, Shetland Sheepdog, German Shepherd, and Brittany Spaniel.
- How will this breed get along with children? Not all breeds are suitable as a family dog and can be a higher canine bite risk. Some dogs that are better off without small children in the household include the Akita, Bullmastiff, and Chow Chow. These breeds may be more likely to cause a dog bite that could be serious.
- Do you live in an apartment or house with a yard? Obviously, if your family is living in a small apartment, choosing a Great Dane might not be the best move. If you are in a home with a small yard, that can also limit the type and size of dog you choose. Herding and sporting dogs such as Border Collies or St. Bernards may not be happy unless they have plenty of running space.
Consider the Ages of Your Children
Some dogs make great playmates but are appropriate for older kids, not babies and toddlers. Dogs that are known to be gentle and patient are better-suited companions for the youngest children. However, keep in mind that any canine can bite, so small children should be supervised when interacting with the family dog. Children don’t automatically know that pulling Fido’s tail or ears or sitting on top of them is a bad idea. Some of the breeds that are listed as being good with children, according to the AKC, are:
- Bernese Mountain Dog: These large dogs require grooming because of their long hair, but are known to be gentle and good with children.
- Boston Terrier: The Boston Terrier is a smaller dog, weighing in at about 25 pounds, but is full of energy and makes a good playmate for children. They also adapt well to apartment living.
- Labrador Retriever: Labs have been on the most popular dog list for years because they basically love pretty much everyone. They tend to be sweet-natured and patient, so they are good around children of all ages.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: These beautiful little toy dogs seem to love everyone, adults and children included.
- Golden Retriever: Goldens have always been a favorite among families and are active dogs that like to play.
- Pug: Pugs are big snugglers and love to sleep and eat, so you have to watch their diets. They love to play too, so the kids in the family will be happy.
- Beagle: Charlie Brown was a smart boy to have a Beagle as a pet. They are friendly, adorable, and loving to all family members and loaded with energy. A Beagle can be a real escape artist, so make sure the yard is enclosed well.
Help From a Seasoned Lawyer
California dog owners are required to keep their pets under control so they cannot injure others and are liable if their canine bites someone. If you are bitten by a dog, I can help you obtain the compensation you deserve to pay your medical bills, lost wages, and for your pain and suffering. Our investigators head to the accident site and check the police report for mistakes and talk to witnesses. They also check with neighbors and delivery persons, such as the mailman and UPS driver, to see if there were any previous problems or complaints. Our lawyers use this information to build a case for compensation. It can be used if the case has to go to court or when negotiating with the insurance company for you.
Dog Bite Lawyer in Sacramento
I’m Ed Smith, a dog bite lawyer in Sacramento. If you were bitten by a dog, California law says that you can be reimbursed for your injury. Get in touch with me for my free and friendly advice at (916) 921-6400 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400. Those who prefer not to call can use our online contact form.
Visit the following links to see client reviews and cases my law firm has handled:
I’ve handled many dog bites, wrongful deaths, traumatic injuries, and cases involving traffic accidents in my 38-year career.
I belong to the Million Dollar Forum and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.
Photo Attribution: Photo by Leah Kelley from Pexels
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