the right dog with kids????

gcgirl

kylith wrote: »

Be aware that smaller dogs aren't necessarily better for children. They can be hurt by accident quite easily, and some breeds with high prey drives, like some terriers, may get overexcited by children running and squealing and may bite.

If I were getting a puppy myself, and I had a young child, I'd probably look at spaniels; cockers and springers especially, or a staffie. My brother has a Lab X Beagle (i think that's what she is) that's an absolute dote with kids, really gentle; even the children who are nervous of dogs love her.

Plus a million

Knine

I have terriers and they are fantastic with kids, one of whom has a severe disability. Many friends of mine have terriers and young children. Terriers will be still running around playing with kids long after other small breeds are tired!

I would not recommend Cockers around young children although they make fine pets for older kids. I have also got a Cocker.

DBB

Knine wrote: »

I have terriers and they are fantastic with kids, one of whom has a severe disability. Many friends of mine have terriers and young children. Terriers will be still running around playing with kids long after other small breeds are tired!

I would not recommend Cockers around young children although they make fine pets for older kids. I have also got a Cocker.

+1 on the Cocker.
Don't get me wrong, I don't want to tar all terriers with one brush, but as a group of dogs they are higher risk with small kids than other dog types. There will always be exceptions to this rule, always, but as a general rule, it's higher risk to buy a terrier pup where there's a small child than it is to buy, say, a Spaniel pup (I'm thinking Cavalier, Tibetan, possibly Springer).
And in fairness, I know many a terrier that likes kids, but not to live with 24/7. They're fine, playful, friendly etc with visiting kids, but aren't quite patient enough to live with them full time.
And some breeds of terrier have a better reputation with children, including Borders, Airedales, and JRTs, which often seem to be either wonderful with children, or the other extreme. And Staffies of course!

mymo

I have a Lhasa Apso who is mostly a lazy lump mooching about for cuddles, but she loves her walks.She has walked for 3hrs before no bother, often does a walk with daughter and her friends with our other dog and their dogs(so lots of running and playing) for up to 2hrs. She still expects a second and even third walk every day.
They are great little characters, mine loves to play and run around with kids, is very good with my friends special needs child, and very smart.
Ours knows lots of commands and loves games (hide and seek gets her really excited), but they do need a lot of grooming (non shed but brushing daily and regular trims) and strict training. They are also slightly cat like and love to play and pounce on things, and mine will kill a rat if she catches one and has had a damn good go at catching a pheasant!

Knine

DBB wrote: »

+1 on the Cocker.
Don't get me wrong, I don't want to tar all terriers with one brush, but as a group of dogs they are higher risk with small kids than other dog types. There will always be exceptions to this rule, always, but as a general rule, it's higher risk to buy a terrier pup where there's a small child than it is to buy, say, a Spaniel pup (I'm thinking Cavalier, Tibetan, possibly Springer).
And in fairness, I know many a terrier that likes kids, but not to live with 24/7. They're fine, playful, friendly etc with visiting kids, but aren't quite patient enough to live with them full time.
And some breeds of terrier have a better reputation with children, including Borders, Airedales, and JRTs, which often seem to be either wonderful with children, or the other extreme. And Staffies of course!

Mine are fantastic 24/7 with the kids, its me that needs the patience!

I've yet to meet a Staffie or Border that did not like kids.

Many people think Cockers & Springers are similar but Cockers are a lot more fiery and I would not recommend one as a first dog.

CKC's just have far too many health issues and for me personally are not lively enough but then many would find my dogs the opposite as they have very high drive.

phelo2121

op would you consider a whippet they have lovely temperaments are very gently are medium in size don't shed a huge amount and are fairly lazy obviously they Have to be walked but usually laze around the house ! I Have have a five month whippet and she's very good with my niece obviously like every puppy she jumps and mouths but that's all down to training !
if you have very young kids and are nit experienced dog owners maybe wait a while puppies are a lot of work! but if you do decide to get a pup please ensure to see pups parents to see what their temperaments are like and research around to know which pup to choose from three litter .good luck

CelticRambler

cocker5 wrote: »

Personally I think a lot has to do with the “rearing” (if that word is appropriate here) of a dog.

Yes there are certain breed more family friendly than others, a lot has to do with socialisation / family integration and training of a dog andalso the personally of the dog itself -they are similar to humans they have personalities and are all different– just myopinion.


I have a wonderful cocker who would make an amazing family pet he is excellent with kids (of all ages) and an all-round lovely fella, and I have met tons of lovely cockers, BUT I have also met some grumpy / snappy cockers too… so it all depends really.


I’m probably going to go against the gain here and say I wouldn’tget a puppy if I had a young child / baby.

Personally I would wait until your child (children) is 5 orso a year and a half is far too young and at 5 they can still grow up together no problem.

A puppy will play bite and knock your child over with boisterous behaviour (perfectly normal) and your baby / child will pull / hurt the puppy and annoy the puppy (perfectly normal too until they know better) but a combination of both being so young and neither understand boundaries could lead to issues . That’s just what I think.


Also again not meaning to sound patronising but if neither of you have owned a dog before I wouldn’t recommend getting one with a very young child. If you decide to have another child… will you have time for two childrenand a puppy / young dog? Many many people decide they don’t and the dog becomes disposable at this point, A dog is a 15 year commitment…. Don’t mean to sound harsh im just pointing out all considerations.


I have grown up with dogs my entire life as has my hubby, we got our own dog aged 25/26 and we were in for a shock, the first two years were very trying (for all 3 of us)… we hadn’t anticipated all the work, time, money,energy, consideration etc. that goes in to actually solely owing a dog (notbeing my family dog etc.), I would personally get a cat / kitten if I were you.They require a lot less training etc… and your child still gets a lovely pet.


Best of luck with whatever you guys decide.

A lot of good advice in cocker5's post, and I would agree that first-time parenting and first-time puppy-rearing are not a good combination.

No-one's mentioned toilet-training - another thing to add to the list of "learning experiences" you'll have to cope with. I know of a couple (friends of a friend) who are still cleaning up after their 14-month old "puppy" because they started in very much the same circumstances as you described, then got distracted by a second child. My friend has come to hate going 'round to their house becase the dog (a shih tzu :rolleyes: ) basically does anything it wants (including walking on the table)

Also, while it might be easier to hang onto a small dog when you've got him/her on the lead, they find it much easier to escape if the humour takes them.

And personally, I'd much rather hoover up after a shedding dog than spend hours grooming.

Knine

DBB wrote: »

One more thing to bear in mind OP, given that you've indicated that you'll go to a shelter to get a dog.
With a young child, I would steer clear of shelters... they simply can't tell you enough of what you need to know about a prospective dog. Shelter accommodation is not particularly conducive to getting an accurate idea of what a dog is like in a home environment, with kids, with the postman, in the car, with vacuum cleaners etc etc. Dogs living in kennels are often quite inhibited, and may not start to show their true colours until they're settled in a new home.

Agree with this. You have to be really careful when you have such young children.

Magenta

DBB wrote: »

If you're going for a purebred dog, I'm surprised that nobody has mentioned the Cavalier King Charles! A tad prone to health problems (but then many purebreds are, and if you go to a good breeder you should minimise the risks)

I disagree here. In the UK, there was one breeder who had won multiple awards for her dog, and had studded him out over 30 times, despite him having been diagnosed with syringomyelia, a horrible painful condition that the breed is notorious for (OP- it's basically, the dog's skull is too big for his brain, and it causes them to have fits). I have seen many many websites for Cavalier breeders and only ONE gets her dogs screened for syringomyelia. The rest- some mention getting their hearts checked, but not all.

DBB

Magenta wrote: »

I disagree here. In the UK, there was one breeder who had won multiple awards for her dog, and had studded him out over 30 times, despite him having been diagnosed with syringomyelia, a horrible painful condition that the breed is notorious for (OP- it's basically, the dog's skull is too big for his brain, and it causes them to have fits). I have seen many many websites for Cavalier breeders and only ONE gets her dogs screened for syringomyelia. The rest- some mention getting their hearts checked, but not all.

I agree! I did say it *should* minimise the risks, but in reality, finding a Cav breeder who does the expensive testing for SM is very difficult indeed, let alone the ubiquitous heart condition.
However, they are still a super little family dog... but I would never buy one. I would, however, rescue one that has already been made

amyjtyrrell

Thanks for all the advice guys.

We are goin to go to <a rescue group (mod edit)> this weekend just to look at dogs and see what advice they have.

I think that there is a hell of a lot to consider before we introduce a dog to our family.

I shall continue with my research and let you know how we git on <snip>.

Really appreciate all of the advice :-)

Sorry OP, as we don't allow reference to named rescues on the forum, I've edited out those bits, but I don't think it detracts from the gist of your post!
Thanks,
DBB

witnessmenow

ABajaninCork wrote: »

Whatever breed you get, DON'T buy from Done Deal!!

There is genuine people on done deal too, we got our dog from a family on done deal (mammy dog was caught) and the pups were in great shape and seemed part of the family. They had a great start made on the house training too (she associated going outside with doing her business)

Sunny.Days

I think it's completely how u bring the dog up. We've always had Tibetan terriers and they've been great. I find them so personable, with us and each other (currently have two). They're also great guard dogs. The first one we had (has since passed away) was very wary of strangers coming into the house and had a fierce bark that made her sound big and scary if you heard her from the outside. Anyway, we had a break in one night and because of her barking the house down it not only woke us up but stopped the burglars from exploring further into the house.

We also have a Maltese who's tiny but the most vicous, territorial little thing I've ever come across. I think this is just because he's been spoilt rotten as a puppy though.

When I was younger my friend had cocker spaniels and they were great dogs.

Queen-Mise

ABajaninCork wrote: »

Whatever breed you get, DON'T buy from Done Deal!!

Is there any problem with getting a mongrel (Heinz 57:)) of Donedeal - someone looking to home some pups, because the mother got caught. We got our kitten of someone on Donedeal in this situation.

Personally I much prefer mongrels to pure breeds. IMO, they usually have much better temperaments. But then, I have very little experience with pure breeds - we have always had crosses of some description.

DBB wrote: »

Finally, because I have to say this... not a Westie . Definitely, not a Westie. Any terrier, in fact, is a higher risk.

What is the problem with Westie's I have a 'mostly' Westie* and he is one of the nicest dogs I have ever met - he has such a pleasant temperament. Whereas the Jack Russell is sneaky out:P

*I have no idea what he is mixed with, some kind of terrier, he looks like a Westie, but is too big.

SillyMangoX

One of the problems I personally find about mongrels being sold/given away on done deal, it's an easy solution. These people don't neuter their dog, it gets caught, sure why not stick them online and make even 20 bucks a pop. Hmm, that was an easy way to get rid of the pups, if it's that easy, there is no motivation to actually go out and get the dog neutered! But that's just my opinion, of course there are some genuine people who do have a once off litter if the bitch got caught before neutering. Personally with kids I would think some sort of spaniel would be good, king charles would be my first choice but be so careful who you get them from!! I had a jack russell x staffie growing up and she wasn't great with kids to be honest, wired to the moon (from the JRT side!). A staffie would be my second choice around kids!

ABajaninCork

Queen-Mise wrote: »

Is there any problem with getting a mongrel (Heinz 57:)) of Donedeal - someone looking to home some pups, because the mother got caught. We got our kitten of someone on Donedeal in this situation.

No, there isn't - if you know what you're doing. Read my previous posts. I did say that I got my dog, via DD. I also advised the OP NOT to buy from there, as she has never owned a dog before and had no previous knowledge. The OP also stated she wanted a low/non shed dog, did she not?

Queen-Mise

ABajaninCork wrote: »

No, there isn't - if you know what you're doing. Read my previous posts. I did say that I got my dog, via DD. I also advised the OP NOT to buy from there, as she has never owned a dog before and had no previous knowledge. The OP also stated she wanted a low/non shed dog, did she not?

There is a violent anti-DD sentiment on this forum. I was raising/asking that if you are not buying a pup/kitten - then is there still a problem with DD. Although I'd never pay for a mongrel either - I didn't realise SillyMango, that people were asked for money for Heinz 57s.

Depending on the type of dog you want - to source a local pup, all the local papers/notice boards/parish newsletters, etc - may have something. And being that local - it is easy to go around and check how the mammy & pups are being looked after. And see what kind of a home they are coming from.


Bitches always get caught - the nature of being human and putting things on the long finger... I'd imagine that a lot of bitches are spayed as soon as the pups are weaned - one unwanted litter of pups is enough.
I have put off spaying our bitch, as she is a lovely dog and a few people have asked about breeding with her. She won't be two until this summer, so time enough yet. Although she hasn't come into heat yet either.

The Bishop Basher

OP you have got lots of excellent advice here. I grew up with spaniels. Mainly cockers and a couple of springers and they were all amazing dogs.

My one special fella, the pup I had from a young age was a grumpy git though. He couldn't be trusted with kids outside the family. We had a special bond, he was fiercely protective of me and I loved him to pieces but I wouldn't wish him on your family. Point being, all breeds have quirks and every dog is different.

Research, research, research and then choose your breeder wisely.

Having had numerous rescue dogs I recently decided to get a pedigree again and there was only ever one choice. A boxer. I love the temperament and they are super with kids, and thankfully we have a gem.

I suppose what i wanted to say was don't be put off getting a dog. It's so beneficial for kids in so many ways and they'll have amazing memories for a lifetime. But the amount of work involved is incredible. Much more work then kids in many ways. But like kids, so so worth it.

Good luck with your search and I hope you have many happy years of friendship and fun with your pup !!!

borderlinemeath

Queen-Mise wrote: »

There is a violent anti-DD sentiment on this forum. I was raising/asking that if you are not buying a pup/kitten - then is there still a problem with DD. Although I'd never pay for a mongrel either - I didn't realise SillyMango, that people were asked for money for Heinz 57s.

It's not an anti DD sentiment, it's more to do with the fact that DD, Gumtree etc are the first port of call for puppy farmers/byb/people trying to make a quick buck out of a bitch getting caught. The ads aren't vetted before they go live so there's no system in place to weed out the bad from the good. That's why they're so popular with the people who are out to make as much money as possible from the sale of animals without a thought for their welfare. The farmers/byb are very very good at marketing their ads, making it look like it's the perfect situation so it's so easy for somebody who isn't clued in to miss the warning signs.

Depending on the type of dog you want - to source a local pup, all the local papers/notice boards/parish newsletters, etc - may have something. And being that local - it is easy to go around and check how the mammy & pups are being looked after. And see what kind of a home they are coming from.

Maybe 20 years ago, but rightly or wrongly, the internet has taken over from what you suggest above. Local rescues are the best port of call. Also OP, while you are looking for suggestions in Dublin, to find the right dog for your family you shouldn't rule out looking further afield. My rescue dog came from the other side of the country to us, because he was the right dog for us. Some rescues have volunteers countrywide who will homecheck and depending on circumstances even transport the dog to you. So please don't rule it out.

Bitches always get caught - the nature of being human and putting things on the long finger... I'd imagine that a lot of bitches are spayed as soon as the pups are weaned - one unwanted litter of pups is enough.
I have put off spaying our bitch, as she is a lovely dog and a few people have asked about breeding with her. She won't be two until this summer, so time enough yet. Although she hasn't come into heat yet either.

You say that one unwanted litter is enough, but none is better. There are far, far too many dogs being bred, intentionally or unintentionally. Before we got her spayed we had thoughts of breeding our bitch but came to the realisation that it was;

Unnecessary - why breed more dogs when there's perfect dogs in rescues/shelters and pounds countrywide

Costly - most people think that they can make money from breeding. Not the case if you want to do it right, getting health tests done before mating, paying appropriate stud fees for the best mate, vets fees before, during and after the pups arrive, emergency call out contingency fund in case something goes wrong during whelping, initial worming of the pups, vaccinations etc. (and insurance doesn't cover pregnancy), Microchipping the pups, registering them if they are pedigree.. giving a guarantee that if there is a problem that the pup can come back to you etc.

Risky - it's a risky thing to put your dog through. There's always a chance of complications, infections, still born pups.

Time consuming - if you want to breed, be prepared for some sleepless nights

westies4ever

I agree with DBB's sentiments on the westies. I absoultely adore the breed (the clue is in the name :rolleyes:). I have two - my female is a sweetheart, very docile and gentle. Shes great with everyone. She is very small for a westie though.

My male is a monster, a huge westie, hes good natured and friendly enough but he can be rough when playing. He's 3 going on 97 - I call him my grumpy old man - he HATES to be annoyed, picked up, hugged, kissed etc. He adores me and loves his affection on his own terms (that generally takes the form of a head butt)but he will growl and show his teeth if irritated. He loves his own space as well. I cant imagine him around small kids, or kids hanging out of him. And on researching the breed my male seems to be the norm, rather than the exception.

dave1982

I've had 2 boxers that grew up with 3 small kids.I think boxers are ideal for kids sometimes its hard to tell who's the biggest baby between the kids and the dogs:D

If the kids are annoying them they tend to just walk away where other dogs would growl or something.They have a lot of patience around kids where other smaller dogs might snap if a kid tries to pick them hurting them by accident.

I grew up with jack Russells they can be very hit and miss with aggression my mother has a bitch nicest child friendly dog you could meet where as more can be nippy.

It all depend i suppose on how much contact the dog has as a pup around small children.

Ms Tootsie

A few other posters have suggested a lab. I have always found them great with kids as they can handle the rough housing that comes from kids a bit more. I would avoid toy or small dogs and go with a medium - large breed as they are a bit sturdier when it comes to enduring the pokes and prodding from children.

As you child is so young you are in a good place to teach both the dog and the child about how to act around each other. You can ensure you child will learn what behaviors will not be tolerated by the dog and vice versa.

No point in reiterating all the previous posts - lots of great advice in them OP so try to take it on board - but just one other suggestion in terms of a non-shed dog (or limited shedding) have you considered a labradoodle. Certain mixtures of the breed will mean you get the poodle coat (so v little shedding) with the temprement of a lab and the sturdiness of a bigger dog.

amyjtyrrell

Many of you have said to research the breeder sorry for my naivety but what exactly does this mean? How do u go about doing it? And what do I look out for ???

And can I also ask what is the difference in buying a pedigree compared to a non pedigree???? Is a pedigree deemed healthier???

ABajaninCork

amyjtyrrell wrote: »

Many of you have said to research the breeder sorry for my naivety but what exactly does this mean? How do u go about doing it? And what do I look out for ???

You can:

• Speak to other owners of the breeds you like.
• Speak to a vet
• Check out dog shows (Ask andreac or ISDW, I think they show dogs and can advise)
• Have a look at the IKC and KC websites to find out more.
• Contact Breeder Clubs of the breeds you like.
• Of course, there is always Boards.ie or the internet!

amyjtyrrell wrote: »

And can I also ask what is the difference in buying a pedigree compared to a non pedigree???? Is a pedigree deemed healthier???

A pedigree simply means the lineage can be traced (For IKC/KC dogs). My own dog is a pure-bred Shih Tzu, but NOT a pedigree, as he has no IKC papers.

Pay particular attention when researching your breed to any health issues that might be associated with them. If the breeder's decent, then they will advise on any potential issues, and will have tested their puppies accordingly. That is one reason why it is much more expensive to buy the pup from a reputable breeder. They will also advise on diet and exercise and the best way to toilet train and care for your dog.

ABajaninCork

Here's the link for the IKC. Lots of useful info on the website.

Also the KC in the UK. They also have an Assured Breeder Scheme which gives a list of breeders accredited by the KC who breed their dogs along KC guidelines.

There's a great Guide on how to choose and buy a dog with an app you can download for reference.

dave1982

If buying off donedeal always google the persons number you'd be surprised but results often show seller selling multiple breeds of dogs.You might be looking for westie for example but google might show he sells all types of dogs avoid him.

Theres for and against buying off a breeder the good part is you're saving a pet from a disgusting place bad part is breeder will have money in his pocket and he'll have another litter of pups to sell in no time.

Its best to avoid done deal though lots of pounds/shelters have perfect dogs

DBB

Queen-Mise wrote: »

What is the problem with Westie's I have a 'mostly' Westie* and he is one of the nicest dogs I have ever met - he has such a pleasant temperament.

There's always someone who tells me of the westie they know who loves kids, etc etc. But one swallow does not a summer make, and I did specifically say there are always exceptions.
However, as a general rule, westies just don't have the patience and tolerance to live with small children day in, day out. For every one exception I'm told about, I can show you 7 or 8 westies who confirm what I say. You might be surprised at how many Westies are surrendered to rescue due to "issues" with children, or other issues which would make them unsuitable to live with children in the future.

amyjtyrrell

dave1982 wrote: »

If buying off donedeal always google the persons number you'd be surprised but results often show seller selling multiple breeds of dogs.You might be looking for westie for example but google might show he sells all types of dogs avoid him.

Theres for and against buying off a breeder the good part is you're saving a pet from a disgusting place bad part is breeder will have money in his pocket and he'll have another litter of pups to sell in no time.

Its best to avoid done deal though lots of pounds/shelters have perfect dogs

Great idea thank you :-)

amyjtyrrell

ABajaninCork wrote: »

You can:

• Speak to other owners of the breeds you like.
• Speak to a vet
• Check out dog shows (Ask andreac or ISDW, I think they show dogs and can advise)
• Have a look at the IKC and KC websites to find out more.
• Contact Breeder Clubs of the breeds you like.
• Of course, there is always Boards.ie or the internet!

A pedigree simply means the lineage can be traced (For IKC/KC dogs). My own dog is a pure-bred Shih Tzu, but NOT a pedigree, as he has no IKC papers.

Pay particular attention when researching your breed to any health issues that might be associated with them. If the breeder's decent, then they will advise on any potential issues, and will have tested their puppies accordingly. That is one reason why it is much more expensive to buy the pup from a reputable breeder. They will also advise on diet and exercise and the best way to toilet train and care for your dog.

Thank you for all the info :-)

The Bishop Basher

dave1982 wrote: »

I've had 2 boxers that grew up with 3 small kids.I think boxers are ideal for kids sometimes its hard to tell who's the biggest baby between the kids and the dogs:D

So true Sums them up perfectly.