Having a dog is one of the greatest joys of life and having a dog play with your kids is just one of the most wholesome things you can watch. Think about it, both sides are just filled with innocence, energy, and happiness, you can’t help but smile as you watch the scene playing out in front of you.
But there’s also danger in that scenario. What kind of dog do you envision with your family? While it’s true that all dogs deserve a good home, you don’t want to find out the hard way that there are just some breeds that aren’t compatible with small kids.
Please note that not all dogs act the same even if they come from the same breed. There are still a lot of factors to be considered when adopting a pet and “bad breeds” can be a great addition to your family while “good breeds” can be a nightmare to be with. Hopefully, this list will help inform you about choosing the right dog for your family. Let’s begin.
10. Akita
Akitas are a Japanese breed that were trained to be guard dogs. They take their position in the family very seriously. They are noble and protective which makes them great as pets.
But they do not tolerate roughhousing and silliness around. They might nip or growl at the kids and their playmates if the Akita thinks they are acting out of line.
Hazards:
- Overly serious
- Doesn’t tolerate silliness
- Can be wary of strangers (playmates, neighbors)
9. Rottweilers
Rottweilers are a large breed of dog that comes from Germany. They can be loving and protective pets if trained properly but Rotties mature slowly. They can roughhouse the kids when playing and that could lead to disaster. Their sheer size and slow maturity rate can result in bites and they will knock your kids around.
Since they have been bred as guard dogs and watchdogs, they can perceive running kids (whether yours or their playmates) as targets and might chase them which could lead to injuries.
Hazards:
- Play biting
- Slow maturity process
- Big and clumsy
8. Shih Tzu
Originating from China, the Shih Tzu has become one of the most popular breeds around the world as they don’t take up too much space, they don’t shed, and they have great tempers, but breeders refuse to sell puppies to families with small kids.
Shih Tzus can be a tripping hazard as they tend to zoom around or lie down where people might step on them. This could potentially injure your kids and the dog alike as both of them aren’t aware of their surroundings. If you still plan on getting a Shih Tzu consider an older, more mature dog as they are more docile, and teach your kid to play with the dog while sitting on the floor.
Hazards:
- A Potential and constant trip hazard
- Fragile
- Hyperactive at younger ages
7. Dalmatian
The spotted Dalmatian is a confirmed kid’s favorite because of its exposure to a series of popular movies. They were originally from Croatia and had been bred as firefighter assistants. Due to this, they have a determined and energetic demeanor.
They can be hyperactive during their early years and will tend to play rough as they mature. They also have weak hearing due to a genetic defect and because of this, they can easily get startled. A toddler screaming or running out of nowhere can cause accidental bites.
Hazards:
- Hyperactive
- Can be easily startled
- Bite risk
6. German Shepherd
There’s a reason German Shepherds are popular as pets today. They are loyal, intelligent, and protective. But even though they excel in a lot of things, being around children isn’t one of them.
German shepherds are big and clumsy. They can easily hurt a kid during playtime when they don’t hold back. They can also get territorial and might bite if a kid messes with their food or toys.
Hazards:
- Clumsy
- Can be territorial
- Bulky
5. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Huskies have been bred as sled dogs in Siberia. They are known for their wolf-like appearance and beautiful coats.
These dogs are hyperactive and are prone to playing rough. They bite with varying pressure as a way of communication. They tend to be stubborn when they are being taught how to play with kids.
Hazards:
- Bite risk
- Hyperactive
- Immature
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4. Dachshund
Dachshunds or weinger dogs come from Germany and they have misleading appearances. Their small stature might make you think they are harmless, but they were bred to be diggers and badger hunters.
These small dogs can be bossy and aggressive when playing with kids. They will nip or growl at them as well as might see the kids as competition for food and attention.
Hazards:
- Bossy
- Bite risk
- Can be fragile due to size
- Will see family members as competition
3. Chow Chow
The fluffy Chow Chow is originally from China. They have gone viral on the web because of their teddy bear-like appearance, but they are far from cuddly.
Chow Chows refuse hugs as they were bred as guard dogs and they take their jobs seriously. They only recognize their owners and will be standoffish to other family members, especially kids if not trained properly. They will also bite if you mess around with their naps, food, and personal space.
Hazards:
- Standoffish
- Wary of other family members and kids
- Can be aggressive when disturbed
- Moody
2. Pit Bull
Probably the most controversial one on this list is the Pit Bull. They originated in England and some people think they are brutes while some think they are great with kids. They have muscular builds, large heads, and powerful jaws.
The Pit Bull has a lot of energy and can knock kids around. They are also very territorial which makes them hard to get along with strangers and pets.
Hazards:
- Clumsy
- Territorial
- High energy
- Bite risk
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1. Chihuahua
Originally from Mexico, the Chihuahua is the world’s smallest dog breed. They have dome heads, pointed ears, and large eyes. Celebrities prefer them because they make great lap dogs.
This breed only recognizes its owners and is aggressive towards everybody else. When they get moody they will bark and bite. Lastly, they are fragile and can get injured when stepped on or kicked accidentally.
Hazards:
- Fragile
- Bite risk
- Aggressive
- Moody
From The Club
All dogs develop their own personalities. These can mainly be affected by breed, human interaction, history, and many more factors. And while pets can be a great family member, it helps to be informed. Choose a dog that fits your lifestyle, train them, and supervise their time with your kids to avoid mishaps. Remember there are no bad dogs.
