Worst Dog Breeds for Kids

A dog may be an excellent addition to any household, especially if you have children. Dogs teach responsibility while providing unconditional, judgment-free love in return, and they can also help children learn some of the qualities that will help them become wonderful young adults.

Dogs, on the other hand, are not toys, and when children treat them as such, it can lead to serious consequences such as injuries or dog bites. Some dog breeds are predisposed or have natural prejudices against small children.

Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is a gorgeous and bright-eyed breed, however they are not particularly good with youngsters. They’ve been raised to hunt huge game—prey that, in terms of size, can resemble a youngster under the age of 13.

While this does not mean that a Weimaraner will always be on the prowl when they’re at home, it does mean that they’re known to play rough with their people, especially if they don’t receive enough exercise and attention otherwise.

To be on their best behavior, the breed requires a defined regimen and enough of time to run, walk, and play. That can be difficult to maintain if you’re a working parent, and it may indicate that you’d be better off with a different breed of dog.

Chihuahua

Many people believe that because of their small size, Chihuahuas are suitable for families with small children, however this is not the case.

When they feel the need to defend themselves, these little fellas rely on their lips to protect them when their height cannot, reacting with barks—and sometimes bites—when they feel the need to. Many Chihuahuas prefer their own area.

If somebody other than their primary caregiver enters their zone and makes them feel uncomfortable, they will give plenty of social clues. The issue is that children aren’t very good at understanding signs, which leads to a Chi becoming aggressive.

Akita

Akitas can be quite lovely and devoted, but they have also been bred to be guard dogs for many years. The tendencies produced by this type of breeding can be tough to wean out and may cause issues during playdates and other instances when unknown children visit your home.

Akitas are protective of their families, including your youngsters. Other children coming over and roughhousing or shrieking may be perceived as a danger by Akitas.

An Akita’s natural, guard-driven instincts could kick in. Keep in mind that this guideline applies even if you don’t have small children at home, but if you invite them over for family gatherings, rowdy children may cause a defensive stance.

Pekingese

A Pekingese, like a Chihuahua, is a little dog breed that uses different tactics to appear huge and menacing when threatened, such as biting and yipping.

It may not take much to elicit these actions. Pekingese do not respond well to prodding, poking, and tail pulling. They have a strong attachment to their food and toys, as well as their primary carers.

A dog will vie for your attention, and this dog does not want to be defeated. You might want to avoid putting your child in a situation where he or she could be wounded by running over to embrace you or play (even gently) with the dog. That’s a lot of pressure on you guys, and it’s a good incentive to look for a different breed.

Siberian Husky

Siberian huskies are highly active canines who enjoy physical play. Even with the best of intentions, these large dogs could unwittingly harm a youngster.

This breed is extremely difficult to teach because they are independent and headstrong. Children acting like “prey” (for example, wailing loudly or darting around) may set them off.

They’ve also retained some wolf-like characteristics in more ways than one. They are naturally protective and quick to react to imagined threats. Before introducing a husky into your family, you should wait until your children are older and have more control over their own conduct.

Alaskan Malamute

This breed resembles, but is larger than, Siberian huskies in appearance and behavior. Alaskan Malamutes, like many other dogs on this list, prefer rough play and will get much harsher if their exercise needs aren’t met.

They, like huskies, may be extremely stubborn and difficult to teach. Another factor that makes them unsuitable for families with little children is that they are not usually good leash dogs.

On walks, they may pull, hop, and strain. This behavior indicates that it would be quite risky for your child to be holding the leash and walking beside it.

Shih Tzu

Many reputable shih tzu breeders will not sell their puppies to homes with little children. This species enjoys zipping around and getting under your feet, tripping adults and children alike if they are not paying close enough attention.

This possible tripping hazard can endanger both humans and dogs. When playing with a shih tzu puppy, you must be exceedingly cautious. Experts sometimes advise children to only play with the breed when seated on the floor). Older shih tzus may be suitable because they tend to relax after puppyhood.

Australian Shepherd

Because Australian shepherds are herders by nature, it’s natural for them to want to corral young youngsters or even bite at their heels to pull them back in line.

This breed is outstanding but difficult to teach as a result. Furthermore, this dynamic powerhouse demands a lot of exercise and personal attention, which can be difficult in a household with little children who frequently demand the majority of the attention. Older children who can play appropriately with this breed for hours on end would be a much better fit.

Bullmastiff

These massive canines are sweet-tempered and sociable, but their size alters the dynamic in a home with small children. A 100-pound delighted bullmastiff may easily topple an equally excited toddler.

It’s all inadvertent; they don’t recognize their own size; they believe they’re lapdogs when they’re not. It is best to wait till the youngsters are older and more confident before considering this breed.

Chow Chow

Chow chows were bred as security dogs. They have the appearance of large fluffy, inviting teddy bears, yet they are not the most affectionate breeds.

Hugs are not always welcome. Screaming, squealing youngsters or children dashing past it may cause it to take an aggressive stance. This bright breed is another another that does not respond well to instruction. This dog will require extensive socializing, intense training, and consistent reinforcement of excellent behavior.