Families around the world have long cherished their pet dogs, often referring to them as ‘man’s best friend.’ However, for families with young children, especially infants and toddlers, the dynamics of this relationship can become more complicated. Dog expert Niki French, founder of PupTalk and a seasoned dog trainer, has raised concerns about certain dog breeds that may not be suitable for households with young kids.
On March 19, 2025, French emphasized that while there is “no such thing as a bad dog,” parents should carefully consider their options when adopting a new furry member into their families. “Contrary to popular belief, the breeds that pose potential challenges are not the typical suspects like Rottweilers or XL Bullies; instead, she cautioned against working breeds like Border Collies. Their natural herding instincts can create issues in a family setting,” she explained.
French elaborated on her concerns regarding Border Collies, known for their exceptional sheep and cattle herding skills. She pointed out, “A Working Collie may want to try and herd and nip at the heels of people in the home. This may be harder to manage with an excitable toddler compared to when your nan comes over to visit.” Here, the unique traits of a Border Collie, exemplifying their working pedigree, could translate into behaviors that complicate family life.
Aside from Border Collies, French also advised parents to steer clear of breeds known for excessive barking, such as Chihuahuas, hounds, and Yorkshire terriers. For families already sleep-deprived from managing young children, these breeds can create further disturbance. She stated, “Some breeds are bred to bark more than others. A baby or young child may find that upsetting. Equally, a crying baby or screaming toddler can be difficult for some dogs to cope with.” This consideration underlines the importance of harmonious coexistence between pets and children.
In light of the prevalence of energetic breeds, French additionally warned against breeds that possess high prey drives, like English Foxhounds and Border Terriers. These characteristics can make interactions with small children risky, as sensitive temperaments might result in undesirable reactions from the dog. She noted, “Breeds with higher prey drives should be approached with care around small children, too.” This measure helps ensure that family life remains safe and enjoyable for all members, including the four-legged ones.
Niki French’s suggestions come in the context of increased public anxiety regarding dog behavior, particularly following the controversial ban on XL Bullies implemented in England and Wales in 2024. In her view, the risks associated with XL Bullies stem more from poor breeding practices and irresponsible ownership rather than the breed itself. She explained, “Bigger breeds obviously have more powerful jaws and can knock children over more easily. But even the smallest mouths can cause a nasty bite. Many bigger dogs are absolute gentle giants.” This statement reflects a broader truth in the debate surrounding dog safety and breed misconceptions. Yet, French emphasizes the need for due caution with all breeds.
Adding to the conversation, Jeanette Muldoon from The Family Dog Club shared her insights, reiterating that a dog’s behavior is influenced by a range of factors beyond owners’ histories. “It’s a myth that every bad dog has a bad owner; dogs, like us, have emotions and feelings and can have good days and bad days,” she expressed. This underscores the intrinsic complexities of canine behavior that cannot be overlooked in fostering a safe environment.
Muldoon pointed out how the past experiences of dogs could lead to unpredictable behavior. “Often with dog attacks, there is a build-up; the dog may have been taken from all they’ve ever known or not had a nurturing environment, and if the owners aren’t experienced in body language, then they often can’t see the buildup until it is too late,” she explained. These insights call attention to the importance of understanding dog body language and the emotional well-being of dogs in family homes.
Ultimately, both French and Muldoon advocate for careful consideration and proper training as essential factors in successful dog ownership. French recommends that families prioritize time and consistency in training to encourage harmonious relationships between children and dogs. “Time and consistency with kind dog training can do so much to help children and dogs live happily and safely in the same home. Regardless of breed, not all dogs are going to be happy in a busy home with children,” she concluded.
For families already considering adopting a dog, these insights could serve as a valuable guiding force, ensuring both children and pets can coexist joyously and healthily. It is crucial for prospective pet owners to research and understand the needs of different dog breeds before making the decision to welcome them into their homes.
In a world where responsible pet ownership is increasingly imperative, French’s insights serve as a timely reminder of the need for thoughtful breeding and training practices that can safeguard the well-being of both dogs and families alike.
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