Choosing a family dog is a big decision, especially when children are involved. While all dogs have unique personalities, certain breeds tend to be less compatible with the chaotic energy, unpredictable movements, and sometimes rough handling that comes with kids. Understanding which breeds might present challenges can help families make informed decisions about bringing a furry friend into their home.
This article provides general information about dog breeds that may present challenges for families with children. Individual dogs vary greatly in temperament regardless of breed. Always research thoroughly, meet the specific dog, and consult with professionals before making any decision about pet adoption.
1. Chow Chow
Chow Chows possess a naturally aloof and independent temperament that often clashes with children’s desire for playful interaction. Their strong territorial instincts can make them suspicious of quick movements and loud noises typical of kids.
These fluffy-looking dogs require extensive socialization from puppyhood to accept non-family members, including children’s friends who visit. Without proper training, they may become overly protective and reactive.
2. Akita
Powerful and protective Akitas were bred as guardians, making them naturally wary of strangers and sometimes unpredictable around children they don’t know. Their strong prey drive can be triggered by running, screaming children.
Though loyal to their families, Akitas typically prefer calm, structured environments – the opposite of what households with young children provide. Their large size combined with their protective nature requires experienced handling.
3. Alaskan Malamute
Built for pulling heavy loads across Arctic terrain, Malamutes possess tremendous strength that can easily knock over small children unintentionally. Their high prey drive might cause them to chase running children.
Malamutes require extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Without proper outlets, they become destructive and difficult to manage – a challenge for busy families. Their thick double coat sheds profusely, creating potential health concerns for children with allergies.
4. Caucasian Shepherd
Weighing up to 200 pounds, these massive guardian dogs were bred to protect livestock from wolves and bears. Their sheer size makes accidental injuries to children almost inevitable during play or excitement.
Caucasian Shepherds possess powerful protective instincts that can misinterpret children’s games as threats. Their independent, sometimes stubborn nature requires consistent, experienced handling that most families with children struggle to provide consistently.
5. Chinese Shar-Pei
Famous for their wrinkly skin, Shar-Peis were originally bred for fighting and guarding. This heritage contributes to their often stubborn, independent personality that doesn’t mesh well with children’s natural exuberance.
Shar-Peis typically bond strongly with one person while merely tolerating others. Their territorial nature can lead to resource guarding – defending food, toys, or sleeping areas – potentially creating dangerous situations with curious children who don’t understand boundaries.
6. Fila Brasileiro
The Fila Brasileiro possesses an intense distrust of strangers that’s actually bred into them – a trait called ‘ojeriza’ in their native Brazil. This natural suspicion makes them challenging around visiting children or even unfamiliar adults.
These powerful guardian dogs can weigh up to 150 pounds. Their strong protective instinct combined with their size creates significant risk around unpredictable children. They’re banned in several countries due to concerns about their aggressive tendencies.
7. Afghan Hound
Behind their elegant appearance, Afghan Hounds harbor an independent, sometimes aloof temperament that doesn’t naturally align with children’s need for interactive play. Their high prey drive makes them prone to chasing running children.
These sensitive dogs often dislike rough handling or loud noises – everyday occurrences with children. Their stunning long coat requires extensive grooming, taking away family time. Their exercise needs and stubborn streak demand consistent training that busy families often can’t provide.
8. Presa Canario
Originally bred for dog fighting and livestock guarding, Presa Canarios retain strong protective instincts that can make them dangerous around unpredictable children. Their powerful build – often exceeding 100 pounds – creates risk even without aggressive intent.
These dogs typically show little tolerance for rough handling or sudden movements common with children. Their strong-willed nature requires experienced handling with consistent boundaries. Tragically, this breed has been involved in several fatal attacks, highlighting the risks.
9. Dogo Argentino
Bred for big game hunting, Dogo Argentinos possess incredible strength, stamina, and a high prey drive that can be triggered by running children. Their powerful build – pure white muscular bodies weighing up to 100 pounds – can easily overwhelm small children.
These dogs require extensive socialization and experienced handling to manage their hunting instincts. Without proper training, their protective nature can become problematic around children’s friends. Several countries have restricted or banned this breed due to safety concerns.
