Best Dog Breeds For Your Family

Insight On Traits Of The Most Popular Breeds

(CBS)  Dalmatians

Dalmatians are a non-sporting breed. They enjoy a lot of attention, and are sensitive to extreme heat and cold. Dalmatians can be "high maintenance." They want to be around people, but don't necessarily want to snuggle. They are not couch potatoes. They can be taught to be good with children, but this requires time and training. Dalmatians have short, beautiful coats, but they shed considerable amounts of hair.

Dalmatians have a genetic predisposition for deafness. It is estimated that 10-to-12 percent of Dalmatians are born with partial or total deafness. Caring for a deaf Dalmatian takes special care and patience. A deaf dog can pose a danger to children. Because they cannot hear you approach them, they can be easily frightened. In most cases, frightened dogs bite. Dalmatians may also tend to strongly protect their territories. So the household that has a lot of people in and out all the time would not be ideal for a Dalmatian.

Bichon Frise

Bichon Frises are a non-sporting breed. They are very social and affectionate, with lively personalities. They are easy to train. They are not "yappers" like other small breeds. Bichons have a thick coat of curly hair that requires considerable grooming. Bichons tend to be good with children, and love being with the family. Because they are a small dog, good play sessions will provide the exercise that they need.

Bichons are good for people with limited space or small apartments. However, the cost of keeping them adequately groomed can be considerable. They should be professionally groomed at least once a month. And it is advisable to brush them daily to prevent matting. Because Bichons don't shed as much as other breeds, they are good for the person who likes a clean, neat environment.

Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are in the toy group. They are very alert and expressive, and sometimes aggressive. Don't let their size fool you. These dogs have a lot of confidence!

Of course, Chihuahuas are quite small, with a pretty fragile bone structure. Chihuahuas don't need a lot of outdoor exercising. In fact, a good play session inside should be sufficient for a Chihuahua's needs.

Because they are so small, with a very short coat, they do need to be protected from the cold. A sweater is a big help for a Chihuahua when taken outside. Chihuahuas have a strong will and great sense of loyalty. They are great lap dogs.

Chihuahuas are not ideal for a large family or a family with small children. They don't necessarily like a lot of new people, so they are not great for a very busy household with lots of people coming and going.

Chihuahuas are great for apartment dwellers and single people. They tend to bond strongly with one person in the household. They are great for the person who wants a lap dog and constant companion. But be prepared: Chihuahuas require a long-term commitment. They can live up to 20 years. This is a good dog for the quiet, retiring person who is not necessarily a social butterfly.

These are not the best dogs for a family with small children. Their small frame makes them a candidate for severe injury at the hands of a rambunctious toddler. A Chihuahua will not hesitate to bite if he feels threatened.