| Answer: No, but it depends. | | | | their own power and strength as they are still |
| Are small dogs good with kids? Most people | | | | growing up. They are simply not aware of what little |
| can’t seem to come to a consensus about this | | | | effort it takes on their part to accidentally and |
| question. People who regularly place rescue dogs with | | | | unintentionally kill a small dog. |
| adoptive families do not believe that children are | | | | On the other hand, some people agree that certain |
| good for small dogs. On the other hand, some people | | | | breeds of small dogs are safe for children. Such small |
| believe that some small dogs are good with kids. | | | | dog breeds include: beagles, terriers and collies. These |
| Both points are valid. Let’s discuss each opinion | | | | dogs normally behave just fine around children and do |
| separately. | | | | not pose any kind of threat. However, you should |
| The people who believe that small dogs are not | | | | avoid the biggest small dogs and toy breeds such as |
| suitable for kids see it from the small dog's | | | | Chihuahuas for the sake of the dog. |
| perspective. These people believe that a child could | | | | In order to keep both child and small dog safe, you |
| easily harm a small dog by acting like the dog is a toy | | | | must monitor both the child and the dog at all times. |
| and not a breathing and living creature. Small dogs | | | | If you can’t watch them both, place the dog in a |
| can attack a child just as much as large dogs can. As | | | | safe room or in a crate away from the child. With |
| far as the safety of the child is concerned, the | | | | proper behavioral training and enough exercise, a |
| injuries from small dogs would likely be minor | | | | small dog can learn to adapt and fit in with the family. |
| compared to the possible injuries caused by larger | | | | Therefore, it’s possible for a small dog to be |
| dogs. | | | | good with kids. |
| Some parents believe that their child is mature | | | | A note of caution: parents must warn their children |
| enough and “dog friendly” enough to enjoy | | | | to never put their face in front of a dog. Dogs can |
| the company of a small dog. Most of the time, these | | | | get spooked and snap, which could result in severe |
| parents are wrong. Breeders and adoption agencies | | | | medical injuries, no matter how big or small the dog |
| will often refuse families with children younger than | | | | is. Small dogs are not typically good for kids in the |
| seven or eight years of age. They do not think that | | | | long run and they are not the smartest choice for |
| it is in the best interest of the dog, which could easily | | | | both the dog’s and child’s safety. It is best |
| be traumatized by living with small children. | | | | to research all of your options first and determine |
| People believe small dogs are safe for children | | | | why you really want a small dog as opposed to a big |
| because they are little. Many children do not realize | | | | dog. Perhaps you shouldn’t get a dog at all…? |