The Times They Are A Changing

If your children have been begging for a dog. You’ve discussed the proper way to treat and handle dogs as well as the chores they will have to take on. They are old enough to understand and you’ve taught them about responsibility in other areas of their lives. Now you’ve decided a dog will be the “big” Christmas gift this year. You’ll need to know which dog breeds are best for families.

Once you’ve decided on a dog and located him/her ask if the dog can be picked up the week after Christmas. Take a picture of the dog have it blown up and under the tree for the kids to see on Christmas morning. After the excitement and hubbub of the holiday is over, you can pick up the dog with the family and everyone will be able to make an easy transition to the new family member.

Best Dogs for Families

1. Australian Shepherd

Even as puppies Australian shepherds are easy going. They seem to be born with positive qualities such as affectionate towards people, loyalty and courageousness. They are very lively and love to play and please their owner. This is a perfect dog if kids are old enough to throw a ball and run with her. If children are younger, get a puppy so she can grow with the children.

2. Beagle

This is a dog who seems to love everyone. The beagle is a good size dog, not so small that children will step on him and not too large that it’s too much dog for them. They are low maintenance as he just needs a bath with mild soap and a brushing once in a while. He’s a smart, brave and sociable dog that stays calm with children. It would not be advised to put a beagle with other pets that aren’t dogs unless they are socialized with them as puppies. Beagles are natural hunters.

3. Boston Terrier

Although they can be high-strung, this shouldn’t be a problem if family members spend enough time playing and exercising her. As with all smart dogs, she will need mental and physical stimulation. Good with children and elderly members of the family. Although, a good watch dog, the Boston Terrier is friendly with people when given the okay by her owner.

4. Collie

If you weren’t around to see the original Lassie TV shoes, you’ve certainly seen reruns. There’s no doubt that Collies are good with kids. Think of everything Lassie was: kind, loyal, loving, intelligent, sensitive, sweet, smart (easy to train) and you know why they chose a collie for that show. This is the perfect family dog. She will be a bit off-set by strangers, though. The only downside might be her twice a year shedding that can be greatly curtailed with good brushings outside of the house.

5. English Shepherd: Inheriting their ability to work with farm stock, they act immediately to their owner’s commands. They are, therefore, excellent home guardians making them good family dogs. Well mannered and affectionate with children, they are also good with other pets (dogs and others) if they are raised with them. They love to run and play ball, but also are extremely smart.

6. Golden Retriever: I’m not sure there is a better all around family dog than the Golden Retriever. She’s the best with kids - patient, kind, loving and playful. She’s a good guard dog, but probably won’t attack anyone, even another dog as she loves them too. This dog is a great addition to a family that already has pets. And, if the family members hunt, she’s excellent for that as well - retriever.