UK’s most child-friendly dog breeds revealed… after American XL Bully is banned after spate of vicious attacks

• An estimated 10 million UK households share their home with a dog
• Choosing a breed that is safe to have in the company of little ones is important
• So which are the top breeds that Brits think make the best family dog?

Whether it’s an adorable dachshund or a loyal labrador, an estimated 10 million UK households share their home with a dog. 

Choosing a furry companion to join your family can be a difficult decision with a lot of factors to consider.

With a rise in dangerous dog incidents, choosing a breed that is safe to have in the company of little ones will be at the forefront of parent’s decisions.

It comes after the XL Bully breed will be banned by the end of the year, following a series of horrific attacks.

Father-of-two Ian Price from Staffordshire, was killed by two of the dogs after they jumped out of a neighbour’s window earlier this month – Just days before, Ana Paun, 11, was also hurt by an American XL bully.

Following the uncertainty, a survey of 2,000 pet owners by Burns Pet Nutrition has revealed the top breeds Brits think make the best family dog.

It comes after the XL Bully breed (pictured) will be banned by the end of the year , following a series of horrific attacks

Footage of the  savage dog attack in Birmingham that left 11-year-old Ana Paun and two men injured

Vet and founder of healthy pet food company Burns Pet Nutrition, John Burns MBE, explained ‘A family dog is a wonderful thing and can teach a growing child a lot about life and responsibility. 

‘But as we’ve seen, dogs can sometimes be dangerous – especially when not properly trained and socialised in the short window of their early life.

‘It’s natural for parents to feel concerned about safety, especially given the current news around XL Bullys, but with the right level of commitment and the right choice of dog, they can make your family even more special. 

The vet added that it’s important to make sure you do your research and get your dog from a responsible breeder – some puppies need more training than others and you may have to invest in classes.  

He continued ‘Or better still, adopt a rescue dog. There are so many across the country that desperately need new homes.

‘Do remember that including them in your family should be a lifetime commitment, and he or she will be completely dependent on you to meet their every need. 

‘It’s essential that you find a dog who is suited to your lifestyle, housing and family situation – and that you speak to a vet or behaviourist to find the right breed for you.’ 

So which dogs do Brits think make the best additions to a family?  

Labrador  

Labradors are easy to train and have a playful spirit, making them an excellent life companion for any family

Top of the list are family favourite Labradors – intelligent, keen and biddable, they have a strong will to please and an irresistibly kind nature. 

They are easy going and are known for their fondness towards children and other pets.

Labradors are easy to train and have a playful spirit, making them an excellent life companion for any family.

A great choice for first-time pet owners, they are a popular choice among Brits. 

Golden Retriever 

Golden retreivers are sweet and playful and love being part of a family – similar to labradors, they are an ideal furry friend

Next up is golden retrievers, who are kind, friendly and confident dogs, making them a great pet to have around kids. 

They are one of the most popular breeds in the UK and it’s easy to see why. 

Sweet and playful, these dogs love being part of a family – similar to labradors, they are an ideal furry friend.

They are also very intelligent, meaning they make great therapy and assistance dogs.

Cockapoo

With exuberant personalities, Cockapoos bond well with children and are very affectionate pooches

Just like children, Cockapoos are often filled with bursts of energy, meaning they fit right in with little ones. 

They can be both fun and gentle while enjoying the company of others, combining the sweet nature of a cocker spaniel with the trainability and humor of a poodle.

With exuberant personalities, they bond well with children and are very affectionate pooches.

Cockapoo’s are amazing companions and will play with you for hours – they are quick learners and easy to teach tricks to.

Poodle

Poodles are the second most intelligent breed, meaning they are easy to train

According to the survey, poodles are another excellent choice for a family pet. 

They are the second most intelligent breed, meaning they are easy to train. 

Their high energy levels are a good match for even the most boisterous child, plus they are very athletic, meaning they can keep on playing for hours and hours – another ideal breed for keeping the kids entertained.

Lively and affectionate, they will be there for all the running around and cuddles children need.

Beagle 

Beagles are a loving, loyal breed, but need a lot of time invested in training them in the early stages

Next up are Beagles – due to their super-friendly nature, they make excellent family pets. 

They are a loving, loyal breed, but need a lot of time invested in training them in the early stages. 

Once you’ve done the groundwork though, you’ll have a great furry friend for life.

The adorable breed get on well with other dogs and even other family pets like cats. 

Dachshund

Dachshunds are a fun loving and affectionate breed, making them good around families, if introduced at a young age

Finally, the survey reveals that dachshunds are another top breed to keep around kids.

Also known as sausage dogs, they are a fun loving and affectionate breed, making them good around families if introduced at a young age. 

They love human interaction and are a great first-time pet. 

Dachshunds are naturally suspicious, so could be nervous or aloof in unfamiliar surroundings or situations, but once settled in, will wedge themselves into the heart of any family.

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