West Highland White Terrier:
* Pros: Energetic, playful, loyal, and generally good with children.
* Cons: Can be stubborn and independent, requiring consistent training. Can be territorial and prone to barking.
Yorkshire Terrier:
* Pros: Affectionate, playful, and generally good with children. Small size makes them less intimidating.
* Cons: Can be fragile due to their small size. Can be prone to barking and may have a tendency to nip.
Shih Tzu:
* Pros: Gentle, loving, and patient. Often described as "doggy Velcro" for their love of cuddling.
* Cons: Can be prone to separation anxiety. Can be stubborn and require consistent training.
Important Considerations:
* Individual Temperament: The most important factor is the dog's individual temperament. Even within a breed, some dogs will be better suited to being around children than others.
* Training and Socialization: Early training and socialization are crucial for any dog, but especially for those living with children.
* Supervision: Regardless of the breed, it's always essential to supervise any interaction between children and dogs.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, the best breed for a family with small children is the one that best suits the individual family's needs and lifestyle. It's essential to research each breed thoroughly, meet and interact with dogs of that breed, and consider the dog's individual temperament before making a decision.
It's also important to remember that a dog should never be considered a "toy" or a replacement for parental supervision. Always supervise interactions between children and dogs, and teach children how to interact safely with animals.