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We’re a nation of dog lovers, with around one-in-three households including at least one four-legged friend.
By far the most popular pet in the UK, they make for wonderful companions, all the while improving both our mental and physical health - and that’s a scientific fact.
The army of dog owners continues to grow, with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
There’s also always the option of adopting a dog from a dog shelter for a minimal fee - for example from the Dogs Trust.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
Meanwhile, certain breeds have particular attributes or temperaments which mean that they are more or less suitable for households with small children.
Here are the 26 best and worst breeds of dog for owners with young families,
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21. Dachshund
They may look like butter wouldn't melt in their mouths, but the Dachshund is notoriously unpredictable and hard to train. When it comes to children they have little in the way of patience, and are not above giving a nip to curious little fingers. | Canva/Getty Images
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22. Australian Shepherd
As the name suggests, Australian Shepherds were originally bred to herd sheep. One way they did this was to nip at the feet of the sheep, and its behaviour that they can now exhibit when young children are running around. | Canva/Getty Images
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23. Akita
Akitas are great family protectors but respond badly to being prodded and teased by young children. They can also perceive a new baby to be a threat to their household. | Canva/Getty Images
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24. Chihuahua
They may be small, but Chihuahuas can be fairly aggressive if their personal space is invaded and are liable to snap - a recipe for disaster for curious toddlers. | Canva/Getty Images