Pets for kids

Avoid such dogs as Chows, Pit Bulls and other sometimes-aggressive breeds. You may need liability insurance if you own these so-called vicious breeds. Parents acquiring a new dog need to make sure the younger child and the pet are monitored whenever they are together.

A few years ago a newborn baby was brought home from a hospital and the established family dog seemed to accept it without any hesitation. Two days later the dog had mauled the baby while it was sleeping and the infant died as a result of the bite wounds.

Like people, dogs have very different temperaments. Some of the smaller breeds, though extremely popular, can be very nervous and don’t make suitable companions for younger children.

With their nippy personalities and penchant for barking, little dogs usually make better pets for older children. Three of the smaller breeds that are readily available are Chihuahuas, miniature poodles and Pomeranians.

If your child has his heart set on one of the toy breeds, find someone who has this type of dog and let the child see the dog. Do the dog and your child get along? If so, and if this is the dog your child has set his heart on, check your newspaper for breeder listings, or ask at pet stores and veterinarian offices about the availability of puppies.

Be aware that sometimes there is a waiting list for these pups.