Large Dogs

Golden Retrievers:

Golden Retrievers are the #1 all time family dog. They are fine for the novice owner and they are playful, easy to train. They very sociable and very good natured, especially with children, strangers and animals. They are large in size, between 55 - 75 pounds.

These dogs do well in the city provided they are given plenty of exercise. Because of their natural retrieving instinct, they can get plenty of exercises while at the same time providing hours of entertainment for children.

They are good alarm barkers, which means they will bark at intruders, although they are more likely to lick the intruder to death than to actually be aggressive..

Golden Retrievers are susceptible to hip dysplasia and other hereditary problems, therefore, it is important to buy them only from OFA and CERF registered parents. This means that the parents have been examined and are free from hip dysplasia and eye problems.

Exercises caution when buying these dogs as Goldens are a very popular breed. Find a reputable breeder, don't choose a hyper, energetic puppy and do not choose a timid puppy.

Labrador Retriever:

Labrador Retrievers are another great family dog. They are fine for the novice owner and good with children. Because of their large size, and the fact that they can be more outgoing than Goldens, they can withstand rougher, tougher children. They are not as easily trained as Goldens, but they are a close runner-up. They have a sound temperament and nothing ever seems to bother them.

These dogs need daily excersise, and of course, most Labradors can retrieve balls. They are also the #1 most popular dog on the American Kennel Club's list of breeds.

There are two types of Labrador Retrievers, field and show. Labs that are bred for field are usually taller and more active, while dogs bred for show are heavier and more sedentary. The best Labrador for most households is a combination of both.

As with Goldens, Labradors are also susceptible to hip dysplasia and should only be bought from OFA and CERF registered parents. Don't choose the most independent Lab from a litter, nor the most timid.

Medium Dogs

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier:

Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are milder than other terriers. They are happy, playful and good natured puppies that tend to be very friendly with strangers. They are good with kinder, more considerate children. If his hair is pulled, or is allowed to be treated in a rough manner, he could snap. They tend to be energetic and can be a bit stubborn to train, but with patience and consistency, they can become charming companions.

It is important with this bright breed to establish leadership over him. When given the chance, he tends to rule the roost. He is a lot of dog in a medium size package and will supply hours of amusement with his antics.

Soft Coated Wheatens are a medium size dog, weighing 30 - 40 pounds. They have very little shedding, however, they do require grooming.

As with the large breeds, this dog is also prone to hip dysplasia and eye problems. Be sure you buy your puppy only from OFA and CERF registered parents. Avoid buying the energetic ones in the litter, but don't choose the timid ones either.

English Cocker Spaniel:

The English Cocker Spaniels are happy and playful puppies. These sweet, sensitive dogs are much more sound in temperament than the more common American Cocker Spaniel, who have a tendency towards possessive aggression. The English Cocker is a high energy breed but they take well to training. They do require daily excersise. They are very social with strangers and take very well to children.

They are small to medium and size weighing between 26 - 34 pounds and have a medium length coat. They have a medium amount of shedding and they do need to be groomed.

They can be very sensitive and submissive and, as with all breeds, children should be taught to treat them with respect.

They are susceptible to eye and ear problems. Buy only from CERF registered parents. English Cockers from a good breeder should make a fine family edition.

Small Dogs

Bichon Frise:

Bichon Frises are playful, gentle and curious dogs. They are fine for novice owners and good with children and strangers. These dogs are easily trained although they do have a tendency to do what they want and to be pushy. Establishing yourself as the leader is very important.

These small dogs weigh between 7 - 12 pounds and they have a curly coat which needs to be groomed regularly, however, they generally do not shed.

Bichon Frises are known to have eye and ear problems, as well as skin problems. Do not choose a timid Bichon, and avoid and overly outgoing puppy as well.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels:

These dogs are known for their sweet and gentle nature. Cavalier King Charles are good with strangers and with kind, gentle children. They do well in the city, but are playful and need some exercise.

The Cavalier responds well to training but are known to be somewhat timid and they should be socialized to people and noises at an early age.

These dogs are small in size and weigh only 13 - 18 pounds. His coat is medium length yet, they do not require much grooming.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are susceptible to hip dysplasia, eye and joint problems and heart disease. Choose a puppy only from OFA and CERF registered parents who have no history of heart disease. Do not choose a timid puppy.

Dangerous Dogs

While any dog can be dangerous to a child, the guard-dog breeds tend to be more of a potential threat. Chow Chows, Shar Peis, Akitas and Pit Bulls are a few that have a higher potential to show dominant, aggressive behavior.With every breed in which I heed caution, I know individual dogs who do not fit these generalizations. They are sweet and gentle, however, the key is proper breeding, training and socialization.