Cincinnati Veterinary Clinic

Selecting a Dog for Your Kids

A loving and playful dog can be a great addition to any family, even one with young children. Caring for a pet is a great way to learn responsibility, and the bond formed between a child and a pet can create fun memories to last a lifetime. However, it is always important to keep in mind that even trained dogs are still animals and that a bad-tempered dog can be dangerous, especially to small children.

Important Dog Traits

Even children with the best intentions can forget the limits of good behavior, especially when they are caught up in a fun game. This is why it is so important for a family dog to be:

• Easy going: A dog that snaps when people pet too harshly, or who becomes nervous around loud noises or sudden movements, is not right for most young kids.
• Energetic: Most children strongly resemble puppies themselves, full of energy and always ready to play. A dog that is unable to keep up with them may not hold their interest.
• Well mannered: This can be a tricky one; while energy is a good trait, a dog with too much energy can become rambunctious and accidentally hurt a child while playing. It is important to find a dog with a good balance.

Breed Is Not Destiny

Although some breeds such as Labradors and Golden Retrievers are known for being good family pets, keep in mind that every dog is an individual. Get to know potential pets one on one, instead of assuming they will have the traits typical for their breeds.

Also, remember that no matter how friendly or reliable a dog seems, no animal should be left alone with an infant or very young child at any time.

Contact a Cincinnati Veterinarian Clinic Today

To learn more about dogs and children, contact your local Cincinnati veterinarian clinic.