I have an Aussie & a Border Collie. They are SO protective of my 1 and 3 year old grandkids. The B/C also thinks it's his job to keep them clean - he will lick them until they cry! Being herding dogs, they love to herd the kids around the yard too. Both kids crawl all over both dogs and the dogs love it. Have taught both kids from an early age to respect the dogs, and vice-versa. It is amazing to watch them interact.