Dogs are one of the most popular pets that people choose to have, particularly if you have children. The affection and fun that a dog gives to children is priceless and they really will have a best friend whilst they are growing up. Many of my friends with children have dogs and they love spending time together. Watching the dogs get all excited waiting for the children at the school gates is beautiful and the look on the children’s faces when they buy their dogs a toy or perhaps new Dog Collars and Leads shows just how much the really do care for one another.

There are a few things to consider when you are looking to get a dog for a family setting.

The first is whether you have the time and space. There is nothing worse than hearing a dog barking and crying because they are left alone for hours on end, dogs get lonely just like we do. Of course, it doesn’t mean that if you are at work full time that you can’t have a dog, it just means you may need to think about whether you can pop home of lunch or arrange for a dog walker to pick you dog up once a day and take them out for some fresh air. Equally you can provide entrainment for your dog at home with toys and a nice bed for them to be comfortable in. I know people who leave a radio on so that their dog has the sound of someone else in the house with them.

Another thing to consider is whether your children are going to be walking your dog – and by that, I mean will they be in control of the lead. If so you may want to consider taking your dog for some training, you can do this yourself or attend a weekly session, so that you know they will behave whilst on the lead and not pull your children along. When looking at Dog Collars and Leads think about whether your child is going to feel comfortable holding the handle and will they be able to attach the lead to the collar?

There are some breeds of dog that are better with children than others. These include:

• Golden Retriever
• Labrador
• Poodle
• Newfoundland
• Irish Setter
• Collie

Matching the energy level of the dog breed to the energy of your children will mean that they help to entertain each other, and another plus is that they also tire each other out.