Staggeringly, babies who live alongside dogs are 31% more likely to have a healthy first year than those without, being 29% less likely to need antibiotics and a reduction in the likelihood of allergies and obesity.. We all know how lovely it is to share our living space with an adorable pooch – but who knew the benefits were so amazing? Children learn lifelong lessons about caring for others while having the advantage of their first best friend living under their own roof. Often overlooked, the larger of the dog breeds are often the best suited to little ones – no ‘small dog syndrome’ with these beautiful beasts!
The Facts, The Stats, The Breeds
With an estimated 89.7 million dogs sharing our homes across the U.S. it is easy to see how popular pups are across the nation. Upon deciding to enhance their homes with a dog, many families first realization is that the toy breeds they presumed would be perfect for their growing family are not actually very child friendly. Their research naturally steers them to the larger, more robust dogs that are more even tempered and less likely to be accidentally harmed by stampeding toddler feet. The intelligence of the larger breeds often make them easier to train, and their size lends them a natural confidence which translates to being temperamentally more suited to the ever changing moods of children.
Consider the ultimate giant of the dog world: the Great Dane, standing anywhere from two to three feet tall! This gentle giant requires plenty of exercise so would be well suited to an active, outdoorsy family.
The beautiful Bernese Mountain Dog is a real head turner with his shaggy, tri-color coat. He would be an attentive playmate for your youngsters; from listening to them read to frolicking in the snow – he would be by their side. One consideration, however, is their relatively short lifespan. Sadly, these wonderful companions are prone to cancers and other illnesses that mean they tend to live for around just six to eight years.
For a loyal playmate that will grow and develop with your children well into their teenage years, your perfect pooch may be the intelligent German Shepherd. The renowned strength of bond that these beauties have with their families mean he will want to accompany you on all your excursions, be involved in your backyard playtime and be curled up indoors during family time. To avoid the health associations that can come with the traditional sloping back of the breed, consider the striking black-coated variation for an impressive looking alternative.
Other breeds to consider include the Standard Poodle, the Mastiff and the popular Labrador and Golden Retrievers. With so many sweet-natured breeds you are guaranteed to find one to suit your family.
Loyalty, Love And Security For The Whole Family
Your research should consider the health, grooming and exercise needs of your chosen breed combined with their energy levels and training ability. Your new best friend will need regular trips to the vets and carefully balanced nutrition to boost their healthy start to life as your most loyal companion. You should also research dog-friendly vacation sites, or consider the dog boarding facilities available near you. The right choice will delight your family for years to come, not to mention acting as a formidable deterrent to any would-be criminals entering your premises! The imposing stature of the larger hounds are hilariously juxtaposed against what their owners know about them – we know that no one would be afraid of our comedic furry friends if they could see the cajoling and fooling around they get up to! That said, they are a priceless addition to your security system with one howl from your pooch sending the bad guys running.
The joy and love your children would get from their loyal best friend, and the development of their bond, is an honor to witness. From cavorting in the mud to being a fluffy comforter during nap time, their truly special relationship would teach your children compassion, patience and understanding that no other playmate could. Start your research now – as growing up without a doggy companion means your children will really miss out.