apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

I completely agree with the Pug, Boston Terrier (I have one) and English Bulldog. I'd add French Bulldog too. Those dogs have very, very mellow but fun personalities. (much like an English Bulldog) They like the kids

Hmmm, what about Golden Retriever?

bassets!!!

Cairn Terriers are little dogs that great with kids! they have a high pain threshold, like labs, so they don't mind when the inevitable tail pulling etc happens, but are small enough so that little kids can play with them instead of just near them. they are just happy, energetic, friendly little dogs. they also don't require much grooming and do not shed.
In case you couldn't tell, I have 2 Cairns that my kids and I adore.

Love Boston Terriers, but beware, they can be VERY active dogs who need plenty of playtime or they can be destructive. I love mine anyway. He's crazy but fun and the perfect apartment dog. When BTs shed, it looks like eyelashes instead of traditional dog hair.

For those of you who love BIG dogs large I have to recommend French Mastiffs. We did a lot of research on kid friendly dogs prior to getting our French Mastiff, Ester, and she has proven to be totally amazing with our daughter (Opal) who is now 5 months. I never have to think twice about Ester bothering Opal. With no training, Ester knows the difference between her toys and Opal's, I can put Opal on Ester's back for cute pics (while still holding Opal) and Ester barely registers that she's there, when Opal is on her floor gym Ester lays right next to her and keeps a protective eye on her. Overall Ester has been effected very little by the new addition to our family. She smells Opal every once in a while, but that's about it. Also, they are beautiful, majestic, sweet dogs...when I am out walking the baby & dog, I get way more comments on the dog!

I second the french bulldog suggestion-sweetest dog, doesnt need a ton of excercise, doesnt take up lots of space in an nyc apt-- I would just suggest it for a family that has a stay at home parent or caregiver because they really need people around a lot and shouldn't be left alone while you go to work.

Pugs are incredible, sweet, gentle, playful, loving dogs. Please consider rescue though. Too many of these wonderful souls have found themselves homeless at all ages.

I have always had mixed breeds that have been rescued and they have all been amazing dogs and great with kids. There are so many dogs in need of good homes out there, many who will lose their lives if not adopted within a certain period of time. Plus, they are one of a kind! Just like your kids.

I would definitely recommend a Soft Coated Wheaten terrier. They are medium size (around 30 pounds), don't shed, are hypoallergenic, and have great personalities.

Our little pug just loves people both old and young. He does shed alot, which may be of concern to homes with little ones. But hey he's a good boy and I have no complaints.

Another pug vote! Ours has been nicknamed Nana, from PETER PAN, because I think she considers taking care of our son part of her job.

This is nonsense. Doggie eugenics is not any less creepy than human eugenics. Dogs do not come with stock personalities. If you want to make sure pup and kid will get along, find an older dog that is mellow and sweet. All puppies are cute and loving, but once a dog is a couple years old, its personality is set. That's why I feel totally comfortable bringing my 60 pound pit bull mix around little kids. She defies all breed stereotypes, acting more like a lazy cat than a terrier. I like pugs, collies, et al. It's just that there's no sure thing re: breed. Go to the shelter and find the nicest dog there, and it will be the nicest dog you can bring home.

Boston terriers? Batshit crazy. They're completely hyper and need tons of attention.

And Collies? High-strung, barky and you can deduct time from your life for vacuuming.

all dogs get snarky if you don't give them enough exercise, love, and healthy food. Make sure you read up on doggy discipline too or you can just forget having a sane house.

MUTTS! rescue dogs are the best/sweetest.