Well, they aren't the greatest for very small children unless the children are well behaved (they are breakable), but Papillons just love to jump and play with the kids. My Sophie makes a bee-line for groups of children if I tell her it's o.k.. She jumps around, stops to let them pet her, lets them poke and prod and pull on her, and, if they know how to pick her up, she will snuggle and kiss them. If you could see her in action, you might think that she is the greatest, most tolerant dog with children that you have ever seen! This seems to be pretty universal too. Unless the Papillon was abused by children early on in life, they are generally great with kids.

As with any breed, however, the temperament of the individual dog plays a very important role. I have met evil and snappy goldens, rottweilers, labs, and dobermans. All of these breeds are highly recommended by people as great family dogs. Say what you will, but no breed in particular is perfect as a pet with children and all dogs have their limits. Train your children not to abuse the dog, as this is easier than training the dog to not abuse children that are abusing it. Most breeds are good with kids so long as the kids understand that they cannot beat up the dog.

Most important, socialize your dog as much as possible. The more people and dogs that are accepted as friendly by your dog, the less territorial and snappy the dog will be. Get out with the dog as much as possible and introduce him/her to new places, people, and things. Take the dog to obedience classes and get through the "Canine Good Citizen Test." You won't believe how well you understand your dog and how well your dog understands you!



[This message has been edited by Sophies Daddy (edited February 23, 2001).]