If you’ve been thinking about welcoming a new dog into your home then you’re in good company – Royal Kennel Club (the new name for the UK Kennel Club) stats show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels.
Dogs come in all shapes, colours and sizes - there are 221 different pedigree dogs recognised by breeders in the UK, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
Then there are all manner of crossbreeds, from so-called ‘designer dogs’ like the popukar Labradoodle (half Labrador, half Poodle) to lovable mongrels.
So there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or an easy to train dog.
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There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
And if you have young childen - or are planning a family - then there are certain breeds that should top your list.
These are breeds that tend to be calm, gentle, loving and patient - that are unlikley to snap and enjoy playing games and snuggling with their human siblings.
Here are 21 child-friendly breeds of loving pet dog.
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13. West Highland White Terrier
The pride of Scotland, Westies are confident, cheerful, affectionate little dogs that can bring plenty of personality to family life. Their sturdy build suits play, although children should still have gentle-interaction guidance before beng left alone with these pups. | AFP via Getty Images
14. Pug
Pugs are known to have a special affinity with children and are likely to become best buddies with the youngest member of the family within a wag of a tail. They are eager to please, easy to train, and very loving. | AFP via Getty Images
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15. Rough Collie
They may be best-known for herding sheep, but Rough Collies are equally good at dealing with children. Strong and loyal, they are also full of energy so are a good choice for an outdoorsy active family. | AFP via Getty Images
16. Shetland Sheepdog
Shelties, as most Shetland Sheepdog owners call them, are gentle, affectionate, and incredibly intelligent - the perfect combination when it come to getting on spectacularly with kids. They are loyal and very responsive to training - your child will be teaching them tricks in no time. | AFP via Getty Images