Which would be the best dog for us?

Our daughter Clara is six years old and has dwarfism. Because of this she is 1’5” tall and 18 pounds. Would you have any suggestions for a family dog that would be fine around Clara? Ideally we would want her to be able to walk the dog on a leash with us closely supervising of course while we are out, and also a dog that she can play with in the backyard or in the house and not have to worry about getting knocked over, overwhelmed, etc Any suggestions here?

I’ve only grown up with larger dogs, but of course given Clara‘s size we want to make sure that she is safe and joy being around the dog. So if you have any experience with smaller dogs please share. Ideally we would like Clara to be stronger than the dog. I do know that larger dogs are more mellow and laid-back, but we really just want to make sure that she is safe.

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

UnderLockDown · M

The dog's demeanor will depend partly on how it's raised. Considering your circumstance, there will be training involved and it can be dome at home. I had a 50 pound Heeler that was amazing with special needs children, completely aware of the need to be gentle. He was an exception, clearly, as I would not recommend a Heeler for you.
I have known a few Shih Tzus that were well behaved and gentle, but the fur is outlandish.😆
Sorry I can't give you any recommendations on breed, you might have excellent luck with a mixed breed. I would say training is going to be your most important aspect regardless of the breed, and try to include hand signs in your training, it teaches the dog to pay attention to you.
I hope you find the perfect dog, every child should have a puppy.🤗

Getsomehere

@UnderLockDown should we get a smaller dog or a big dog? I mean that as a genuine question. I know small dogs are a lot more wound up, and big dogs are more mellow. Then again even a 50 pound dog weighs almost 3 times as much as her, and that’s a little scary to think about

UnderLockDown · M

@Getsomehere I've had a few large dogs (85 pounds) that were perfect with kids and babies. I think it will depend more on the training. Gentle repetition goes a long way. Maybe look for something medium small, that is known to have a calm demeanor.
I understand your fears.🤗 Can't have the baby being afraid of her own dog.
I think GerOttman made a good suggestion, spaniels tend to be intelligent and aren't so large that they overpower during play. I spent time with a King Charles Spaniel that was sweet and gentle, and she was extremely trainable, great disposition.

Getsomehere

@UnderLockDown I feel like when people say “great with kids“ they mean your typical six or seven-year-old. Given how Claire is growing I just worry that even a small dog will be overpowering. In terms of physical development my daughter is very similar to that of an eight month old if not more fragile, and in terms of height she is only 1‘5“. She is also only 18 pounds. It doesn’t take very much at all for something to be overwhelming to her in that regard.

UnderLockDown · M

@Getsomehere Training will be the most important factor. Do some research, teach yourself a little about how dogs learn.
If you are serious about having a dog, maybe call around and ask a few trainers if you can sit in on classes for free considering you don't have a dog. It will give you a chance to learn more without committing.

UnderLockDown · M

@Getsomehere Yorkies are quite small, but can be a bit excitable, especially as puppies. You're entering expensive ground though. For a well bred Yorkie or tiny Poodle the cost can be kind of outrageous. Good reputable breeders are also hard to find.