Think carefully about this question: What do you think is the best pet for small children, say children 10 years old and under? The age is arbitrary, but I want to emphasize SMALL children, i.e., physically small, mentally, emotionally, and socially less developed.

That really, to me anyway, is a tough question. On the one hand, you want a pet the child can form an affection for so he/she will learn to care about it. At the same time, you want a "durable" pet that'll take a certain amount of physical "mishandling," should we say -- without being harmed or harming the child.

My choice would probably be one of the more child/family friendly breeds of dogs, a lab perhaps, or a golden retriever, or perhaps a German shepherd. I suppose you can find tales of people with such pets who have had bad experiences around children. But for the most part such dogs become faithful, loving, and loyal friends to small children whom the pet understands is part of the family. I have never owned a golden retriever, but I've heard nothing but good things about them and about their gentleness and intelligence around small children.

What about small caged animals, such as hamsters and gerbils? They're relatively easy to care for and usually aren't "vicious" or hostile unless they feel cornered or threatened. Unfortunately, an aggressive child can do harm to one of these small pets in a very accidental fashion. A quick or sudden "grab" of delight can dislocate a hamster's leg -- and also may result in a nasty nip to the child's hand.

Nope, I think I would prefer large, gentle dogs for families with small children. Save the caged pets, birds, reptiles, etc., for older children and above.

What do you think? What would you recommend as the best pet for small children? Tell us, please.

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