{"id":376,"date":"2025-11-01T03:15:35","date_gmt":"2025-11-01T03:15:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/?p=376"},"modified":"2025-11-01T03:15:35","modified_gmt":"2025-11-01T03:15:35","slug":"these-gentle-dog-breeds-are-great-around-babies","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/?p=376","title":{"rendered":"These Gentle Dog Breeds Are Great Around Babies"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Before my now 21-month-old toddler burst onto the scene, our four-legged fur babies ruled the roost\u2014and our hearts. I wondered how they\u2019d adapt to a tiny new roommate. Our Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was curious and extra gentle, while our 90-pound lab took the \u201cif I ignore it, it\u2019ll go away\u201d approach\u2014until the baby started crawling, and then it was open kissing season. Now our tot is growing up with a built-in bestie (sadly, our lab passed) who happily endures full-body hugs and fur grabbed by the fistful.<\/p>\n
Finding a baby-loving dog breed that fits your family takes some sniffing around. Look for one with a reputation for being gentle, patient, adaptable, and friendly, says Mary R. Burch, Ph.D., director of the American Kennel Club (AKC) Family Dog Program. Before introducing your dog to a baby, see that your dog is well-socialized and trained to follow basic commands like sit, stay, and down, she says. And let your pup \u201csniff out\u201d your infant. \u201cBring home a blanket with the baby\u2019s scent so your dog becomes accustomed to it,\u201d Burch says. In prep for that first meet-cute, give your pooch plenty of exercise so they’re more relaxed\u2014and keep them on a leash for safety, she says. And of course, never leave your dog with your baby unattended.<\/p>\n
For nothing but puppy love, here are Burch\u2019s top 10 baby-friendly breeds.<\/p>\n
Boxer<\/h3>\n
Got a high-energy fam? A boxer may be your perfect pet match. These lovey-dovey powerhouses are also patient and protective, earning them high praise as kid-friendly pets.<\/p>\n
Smart and loyal, they\u2019re as easy to train as they are eager to cuddle. Just be ready to meet their energy needs with plenty of walks and playtime. Their short, shiny coat is low-maintenance, and a good weekly brush over is all that\u2019s needed.<\/p>\n