'I'm a dog expert - these are the 3 worst breeds to have around children'
A canine behaviour specialist has warned that things can go 'terribly wrong' when certain breeds are around youngsters.
Bringing a dog into the family is always exciting, and there are so many breeds to choose from. But picking a suitable one can be a struggle, especially if you have young children.
Understandably, you'll want a breed that is easy to train and gets along with youngsters. However, some surprising dog types don't always fit this bill. That's according to one canine behaviour expert, who has sounded the alarm about three dog breeds - and they're probably not the ones you think.
Will Atherton, a clinical canine behaviourist, took to TikTok to warn potential dog owners that introducing certain dog breeds to children can go "terribly wrong".
While people might typically think of pit bulls and rottweilers when it comes to this, they didn't feature on the list - with the expert naming three other breeds instead.
In a video, he said: "As a canine behaviourist, I specialise in when things go terribly wrong with dogs, and unfortunately that often happens with bites towards children. And I see certain breeds cropping up time and time again."
Border collie
These cute black and white dogs might seem like a great choice for families, but the expert warned that this isn't always true.
Don't miss: Vet names five fruit and vegetables that are 'toxic to dogs'
Don't miss: I own one of UK’s rarest dog breeds - just over 100 are born a year
Don't miss: It may not be all your fault if your dog is fat, scientists say
He said: "Contrary to popular belief, people think because they're so trainable, it means that they're easy dogs to live with. But that couldn't be further from the truth.
"Those herding instincts will kick in, and if you don't fulfil the dog properly, which many people don't have the time or energy to do, they will start herding your kids.
"And by herding your kids, I mean chasing them around and biting their ankles."
Akita
While the expert was quick to say he 'loves' this Japanese breed, he cautioned that they aren't always the best to have around children.
He warned: "In the right situations, they can be incredible dogs. But time and time again, I see them having serious issues with children, and it's never pretty when this happens."
According to the PSDA, this is because they could accidentally knock young children over due to their large size and strength.
Dalmation
These iconic dogs might look perfect for families, but the expert warned that there's one thing that many people don't know about this breed, which could make them unsuitable for children.
He said: "The dalmation has one of the highest bite histories in the UK, and oftentimes towards children."
The experts at the PDSA elaborated on this, saying: "As dalmatians can be very excitable when they’re younger, they may be a bit of a handful for adults unfamiliar with the breed.
"It’s important to always supervise your dalmatian with children and vulnerable adults."
