Much of how a dogs is with kids depends on its early socialization, before 12 weeks. Bring a new puppy into a home wit children and supervise them to prevent abuse, intentional or not, and it should grow up loving the kids.

I personally think a larger dog is safer with kids.

Aster answered on 12/15/10. Helpful? / 1

Small dogs are NOT better for children... they tend to be more fearful and reactive, which easily leads to biting. A small dog's bite may be less harmful, but it's still a bite. Large dogs when properly trained are much more tolerant of kid stuff like rough petting, tail pulling, etc.

It really depends on the kids whether the dog will do well with them. Young children are notorious for picking up small dogs and puppies and then dropping them, which can easily break a leg in fragile breeds like the Chihuahua. Most dog experts do NOT recommend toy breeds with children under age 6 or so, for the safety of the dog.

I think a Jack/Chi mix would be particularly bad for young kids... You could get the Chi's delicate bone structure and "one-person-dog" personality, and the Jack Russel's energy and aggressiveness. Not a combo I'd buy, personally.

Bruno CGC answered on 12/16/10. Helpful? / 1