Thinking of a Dog for Christmas? Here's the 4 Best Family Dogs

There comes a time in the life of every family when the kids and the minivan are just not enough. As if life weren't already complicated enough, we must add a dog to the picture. Well my family is among those insane parents and we have unanimously decided (without my husband's vote) that we want a puppy. We're not rushing into it and have next summer on our agenda. But, for some of you mamas, summer is too far away. You're kids want their furry friend and they want it for Christmas. Well it was bound to happen anyway so why not now.

You'll probably expect dogs like the golden retriever, cocker spaniels and chihuahuas to be on this list. Well, sorry mamas, you'd be wrong. While most movies boast on-screen family 's connections with Saint Bernards and Weinmaers, these dogs do well on screen because they are what I refer to as "job dogs." They like to have a job to do and are super committed to their employment. But, due to their hyper-activity and career-driven personalities, they are not ideal for children. It turns out that the best dogs for your children come from the line of the bully breeds. Yes, dogs like Bullmastiffs, English Bulldogs and Boston Terriers are historically bred to be companion and security dogs making their personalities and instincts super suited for children.

My boys and I are watching the following videos as we make our journey toward adding a new hairy, family member.

Boston Terrier

Thankfully, my dad, who live next door, just got a dog and it happens to be a Boston Terrier. Terriers are lazy little gassy dogs. They fart a lot, but are patient, easily trained due to their intelligence and have very few health problems, outside of a few respiratory issues.

Bullmastiff

Ain't nobody comin' in your backyard with the Bullmastiff around. Despite his enormous size, Bullmastiff's are happy, gentile dogs. It is actually happiest with a family, but may have some health issues.

Boxers

This dog has lots of energy and loves kids, but are not the easiest to train because of all the activity they posess. This dog wants to play with your kids and is another great guard dog. Like most bully breeds this dog is not a big barker unless someone comes to the door.

Check out the Dogs 101 channel on YouTube to get the 411 on your family's new addition before you buy him.