Choosing the right dog breed is not easy, especially if you have small children. Yes, the dog is considered man’s best friend, but this does not apply to all breeds. It is very important to choose a breed that will get along well with your children, but also one that will not cause problems with guests or neighbors. Although all dogs can be trained, not all breeds can live peacefully with children. In this article, we will look at dog breeds that are not suitable for living with children.
Chihuahua
Don’t be fooled by the fact that they are small and cute. In fact, Chihuahuas may not be the best choice if you have small children. They are very territorial and quite aggressive dogs, especially with the younger members of the family, being also very jealous. They have a very stubborn and obstinate character, so they are very difficult to train.
Chihuahua
Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are born to live in the harshest conditions possible. They are bred to be in isolated and very cold environments. They have a very strong survival instinct that drives them to attack animals, but also children. This is also a difficult breed to train. If you have an asthmatic in the family, the Alaskan Malamute, by losing a lot of hair, could give you problems.
Alaskan Malamute
Rottweilers
Rottweilers are known for their strength and large size. They were originally bred for performance and were often used to herd cattle or pull small carts. Rottweilers can adopt violent behavior in the presence of strangers, due to their loyalty and courageous nature. Today they are used as police or guard dogs.
Rottweilers
Bullmastiff
Considering that Bullmastiffs are not aware of their large size and that they are more aggressive than other breeds, they are not suitable dogs for families with children. However, if properly trained, they can become the family’s best friend. They show a very high level of loyalty to their owners, considering them the leaders of the pack.
Bullmastiff
Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard breed became famous in the 1990s thanks to the movie Beethoven. Although they can be trained, their particularly playful nature makes them difficult to work with. St. Bernards are a very good-natured breed and very sweet with children, but their enormous size makes it almost impossible for them not to drop everything around them.
Saint Bernard
The Weimar Hound
The Weimar Hound may also not be the best choice if you have small children at home. Their energetic nature and character make them clumsy and cause them to clash with small children. Dogs of this breed are bred to hunt, get bored easily and need constant attention from their owners.
The Weimar Bracco
The Australian Shepherd Dog
The Australian Shepherd is another dog with great exercise needs. They are bred as guard and rescue dogs, and need long walks because without movement they can develop behavioral problems. If you also have young children to care for, keeping up with this breed can be too much work. The Australian Shepherd is also uncomfortable around strangers.
Australian Shepherd
Siberian Husky
Another breed characterized by inexhaustible energy. The Siberian Husky is always looking for affection and therefore can feel in competition with any child. Therefore, it is not the ideal dog if you are looking for someone to protect the little ones. Also, having been born as sled dogs, they will not be inclined to defend your home.
Siberian Husky
Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher is a very playful, teasing and curious breed. Because of their small size and cuddly appearance, children often mistake them for stuffed animals. They defend themselves well when playing with other dogs, but if they don’t feel comfortable, they can go overboard. Look at their snouts, they really do look like stuffed animals!
Affenpinscher
Chow Chow
Yes, this dog also looks like a stuffed animal: look how furry it is! Although they look very sweet, their large size can cause them to be clumsy and unintentionally hit children. Chow Chows also have a very jealous nature, so they will compete with smaller ones for their owner’s attention.
Chow Chow
The Afghan Greyhound
The Afghan Greyhound is a breed characterized by its strong determination and the need for a strong leader to guide them. Originally, they were bred to be guard or hunting dogs. When approaching this breed, it should be approached in a gentle, calm and confident manner.
The Afghan Greyhound
The English Toy Spaniel
Don’t be fooled by the cute and cuddly appearance of the English Toy Spaniel: in fact, they may not be the best breed to accompany children. They often perceive children’s attempts to play as a threat and therefore may react badly. A firm hand and good leadership is crucial in training this breed, which is dominant by nature. With good training, they can be successfully raised.
English Toy Spaniel
The Greyhound
The Greyhound, due to its energy and incredible speed, is bred for dog racing. They have a strong need to run constantly and, for this reason, can be a challenge for parents with small children. They tend to attack small animals and are therefore dangerous in contact with children. In addition, they do not tolerate children cuddling or pouncing on them.
Greyhound
The French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a very energetic and playful dog, and requires a lot of attention and affection from its owner. Without sufficient attention and training, he can feel ignored and unappreciated, which can lead him to adopt an aggressive attitude. Showing leadership and control is crucial with the French Bulldog.
French Bulldog
The Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is a very special breed, as it was initially bred to be a companion dog for royalty. So don’t be surprised if they constantly need affection and attention. But be careful not to spoil them too much, as they can feel like their own masters. The Japanese Chin also has a very jealous nature.
Japanese Chin
The Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a very easily frightened and overexcited breed of dog. If children play a little rough or scare them by sneaking up behind them, they can become violent and bite. The Shih Tzu also develops a form of separation anxiety if left alone for too long. This makes it a suitable breed for retirees or those who work at home.
Shih Tzu
The Pekingese
Although their appearance does not suggest it, Pekingese are very independent and brave. Children will always want to cuddle them, hold them in their arms and pet them all the time, but Pekingese will not be amused by this. If you decide to have a Pekingese, make sure your children are authoritative and aware of the nature of this breed.
Pekingese
The Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is one of the most energetic and active breeds in existence. They do not like violent play and if children poke or tease them, the Jack Russell Terrier will react by biting. They are also very territorial, so if you decide to take them with you, make sure your children respect their space.
Jack Russell Terrier
The Shar Pei
Yes, we know, those extra rolls of fur and that snout make him really adorable, but don’t be fooled. The Shar Pei suffers from many health problems due to disease-causing skin folds. For this reason, they can be a health hazard to your children. They are also aggressive and very difficult to train.
Shar Pei
The Dachshund
The Dachshund was originally bred to hunt small animals; therefore, it does not get along well with animals such as kittens or hamsters. In addition, many Dachshunds suffer from small dog syndrome, which causes them to behave like larger dogs. They are docile with children only if the play does not become violent. Beware also of mistreating them, as they become very aggressive.
Dachshund
The Dalmatian
The Dalmatian is another of those breeds bred as a watchdog or hunting dog for small animals, such as rodents. They are very shy with other dogs and need constant affection and attention from their owners. If they do not receive enough affection, they may bite or scratch. They also need constant exercise, as they are very energetic dogs.
Dalmatian
The Neapolitan Mastiff
Despite their enormous size, Neapolitan Mastiffs are known for their gentleness. Older children consider them to be a very affectionate dog, while parents claim to have had experiences where the dog would sit on or squash younger children because they are so clumsy. They also drool a lot, so be prepared to wash the floor very often!
Neapolitan Mastiff
The Skye Terrier
Skye Terriers are not only confident and fearless, but also aggressive towards other dogs. They need constant affection and attention, and if they don’t get it, they will rebel by barking or ruining household furniture. This breed is also very prone to chase small animals, so be careful with your small children.
Skye Terrier
The Akita
Akita have always been bred in Japan as guard dogs, and their aggressive and unfriendly nature makes them impeccable in their role. The problem is that they often see children as intruders, not to mention their friends: forget about them! It is a breed with a very particular character, so if you decide to adopt one, make sure your children know what kind of dog it is.
Akita
The Pit Bull
As is already known, the Pit Bull is a very aggressive breed, but obviously not all of them are. For several generations, this breed has been bred to support dog racing, which has led to this bad reputation. They have a very strong temperament and, when they attack, they barely let go of their prey. Studies show that Pit Bulls are the cause of 30% of fatal dog attacks. Of course, not all Pit Bulls are so aggressive, but if you have children, you should consider whether it is in your best interest to have this breed.
Pit Bull
The Doberman
Dobermans are often used in military roles due to their aggressive behavior. In the 1970s, this breed became very popular, but there was also an increase in canine aggression at that time. There were also several cases where Dobermans attacked their owners for no reason. Although these occurrences have become rarer over time, when a Doberman attacks a person, things can get ugly very quickly.
Dobermanns
The German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is not only an extremely loyal dog, but also obedient and intelligent. Their intelligence and aggressive side have led them to be used in law enforcement roles. Although there is a possibility that they make excellent family dogs, their large size and aggressiveness could lead them to attack the wrong person.
German Shepherd
The Great Dane
The Great Dane has a charm of its own and is one of the tallest breeds. The problem is their large size, which makes them dangerous and dominant, especially with smaller animals and children. Although they do not attack often, their weight of more than 45 kilos makes them difficult to control if this happens.
Great Dane
The wolf dog
The wolf dog is a beautiful and imposing looking dog but, being half wolf, it has a wild side. It is a very dangerous breed to have as a pet because, although it can be trained, its wild side persists and will always come out sooner or later.
Wolf dog
The Amstaff
The Amstaff is very similar to the Pit Bull physically, but not in character. Unlike the Pit Bull, it is very friendly and playful with humans, but obviously good training is essential. Like Pit Bulls, they have always been bred as fighting dogs, so they are dangerous as pets if not trained.
Amstaff
The Tosa
The Tosa is a very rare breed, and in dozens of countries it is forbidden to keep them as pets. They are bred in Japan as fighting dogs and often show aggression towards people and even some animals. They are bold and fearless and their large size makes them difficult to control in case of attack.
Tosa
The Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino was originally bred to accompany humans on the hunt. It is also used as a guide for Czechs and as an aid in law enforcement. Unfortunately, its aggressive nature has caused it to be banned in six different countries. Even when trained, the Dogo Argentino attacks without cause, which makes it very dangerous.
Dogo Argentino
The Tosa Inu
The Tosa Inu is a breed originating in Japan that was originally bred as a fighting dog. It is a very rare breed to find, but in case you are looking for a pet, its weight of more than 60 kilos and its height of more than 70 centimeters do not make the Tosa Inu the best family dog. Moreover, in some countries it is considered dangerous. Therefore, let’s say that the Tosa Inu is not the best playmate.
Tosa Inu
The Bandogge
The Bandogge is a dog with extreme strength. It is a cross between the Neapolitan Mastiff and the Pit Bull Terrier, but it is not what you think: the Bandogge was not born as a fighting dog. However, it is widely used in dog fights because of its muscular strength. Perhaps as a companion dog, the Bandogge is not the best choice due to its impressionability.
Bandogge
The Cane Corso
Don’t be fooled by puppy dog eyes. The Cane Corso is also known as Mastiff and is huge and endowed with incredible strength. This breed of Italian origin can weigh up to 70 kilos and is descended from the Roman fighting dog, Canis Pugnax. These origins influence its character, making it unpredictable, dangerous and not the best companion dog.
Cane Corso
The Bull Terrier
The Bull Terrier is considered the gladiator of the dog breed and is known for its egg-shaped snout (or shark) and its imposing appearance. They are one of the best dog fighting breeds and when they see a potential prey, they lose control. They are aggressive, independent and stubborn, so they are very difficult to train. Be careful if you have small children.
Bull Terrier
The Boer Boel
The Boer Boel is a large and imposing dog descended from the South African Mastiff. This breed was bred as a guard dog in South Africa and defended humans from animals such as lions, as well as having an excellent sense of direction. The Boer Boel is extremely loyal and protective of his family, so if you are looking for a guard dog, this is the perfect dog.
Boer Boel
The Gull Dong
The Gull Dong was originally bred as a fighting dog and is a cross between the Gull Terrier and the Bully Kutta. Also known as a Pakistani Bull Dog, the Gull Dong is independent and physically strong. He may appear friendly and reliable, but he loses control easily and is especially touchy. So if you don’t want to take risks with your children, think twice before adopting one.
Dong Seagull
The Basenji
The Basenji comes from Central Africa and originated as a hunting dog. It is a dog with a very curious and affectionate character, but can be shy and wary of strangers. Were you thinking of adopting it as a companion dog? Then you should know that it is the second least trainable dog in the world.
Basenji
The American Bulldog
Here is another strong and imposing breed. The American Bulldog was originally bred to work on farms, to hunt wild boar and cattle, kill vermin and guard property. So, even if their muzzle looks friendly to you, remember that they are still Bulldogs.
American Bulldog
The Fila Brasileiro
The Fila brasileiro is large, powerful and quite wild, as its appearance suggests. Originally from Brazil, it is a breed well known for its unerring sense of direction. Unfortunately, due to its size and aggressive, impetuous temperament, it is banned from adoption in many countries. If you do not want to frighten your children and their friends, you should not adopt a Fila brasileiro.
Fila Brasileiro
The Canarian Catch Dog
The Canarian catch dog is a huge dog of Spanish origin, initially bred to guard the herd. As can be guessed from its appearance, it is a very aggressive and distrustful dog towards strangers. One could resort to training, but as a choice for a domestic dog it is a bit risky.
canary catching dog
The Boxer
The Boxer originates from Germany and is a cross between the English Bull Dog and the Bullenbeisser. They can weigh up to 30 kilos, but are not particularly aggressive. They have a playful, sociable and energetic character, making them more family friendly than the other dogs mentioned. However, they have a stubborn side and can become aggressive and attack if provoked.
Boxer
The American Wolfhound
The American Wolfhound is a cross between the gray wolf and the dog. Its majestic appearance and coat make it look trustworthy, but it is not. Being a cross between two species, it has some peculiar traits, such as being unpredictable and appearing stealthy. I don’t think you want to leave him alone with your child.
American wolfdog
The Husky
The Husky is one of the most popular and fascinating breeds in the world. They were originally sled dogs, but were also bred for trekking or racing in the snow in northern regions. Their loyal, gentle and energetic nature has made them popular pets. But remember that huskies have a predatory instinct and can be more aggressive than other breeds.
Husky
The Caucasian Ovcharka
The Caucasian Ovcharka was originally bred to guard and protect the herd. Also known as the Caucasian Shepherd, it is a breed of assertive character, strong temperament and great courage. For this reason, it is an excellent companion dog. However, it must be properly trained due to its fierce nature, which stems from its need to defend and protect everything.
Caucasian Ovcharka
Russian Greyhound
The Russian Greyhound looks like a large, gentle and elegant poodle. These white giants are friendly and, if properly trained, can be fantastic companion dogs. Despite this, they have a rather stubborn nature and therefore require a little more patience than other dogs. Being unaware of their physical strength, they are notorious for their somewhat violent fights.
Russian Greyhound