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Happy Golden Retriever's Zoomies With Family's Little Girl Will Make Anyone Smile

There are so many reasons to love your dog, but one thing that virtually all pup parents say is that their dog brings unconditional love and joy into their lives. And I feel the same way! A dog will be there for you no matter what, whether it's time to cry on the couch or time to have a dance party. They won't ask any questions--they'll just be your best friend!

There are thousands, if not millions, of sweet dog videos on the Internet by now, but watching dogs and kids have fun together will truly never get old. It's magical to watch children bond with their furry friends as they grow up together, and I know Jess, a mom of two and fur mom of one, would agree.

On February 27, she posted a heartwarming video from her home's security camera of her Golden Retriever's over-the-top zoomies. Although the way Charlie spins in circles could make anyone smile, the best part is the way he lets the family's little girl join in on the fun, too.

OMG--this is too cute! I can't help but wonder what got this Golden Retriever (okay, technically, he's an English Cream Retriever) so excited. Most dog zoomies are comprised of just a few spins or a couple of laps around the yard, but Charlie is really going for it. I'd like to think he's excited to see his BFF--the precious little girl--but it almost doesn't matter. One of my favorite things about dogs is that they can get excited over everything!

Related: Golden Retriever Having Zoomies in Her Ball Pit Is the Picture of True Joy

Commenter @vdoesthat wasn't the only one who noticed that the pup was "Zooming with situational awareness so the baby doesn't get knocked down." It was so sweet of him! He always had an eye on his pal, even in the midst of pure bliss, and that shows just what a considerate boy he is.

People who have owned Golden Retrievers before aren't surprised to see how easygoing Charlie is with his little bestie. Retriever breeds are some of the dogs who are known for their gentle, intuitive natures, though any pup has the potential to get along with kids.

To increase the odds of your dog and child getting along, be sure to teach your child the appropriate ways to behave around a dog. Teach them the basics of dog body language--like how a wagging tail usually means a happy dog--and when to give an animal space.

It definitely helps that dogs are incredibly intuitive, and they can use signals like scent to infer when they're interacting with someone very young, very old, or very sick. This is why some dogs make excellent therapy animals and why plenty of dogs just know to be gentle with children. Charlie and his BFF are setting an amazing example!

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18 Best Dog Breeds For Kids

The 18 Best Dogs for Kids — Best Family Dogs for Children

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Klaus Vedfelt/Getty Images First things first

Dogs have personalities and quirks, no matter what breed they are. Children also differ in their needs, energy levels, and personalities. There are many unique dog breeds out there like short-legged dogs, dogs that look like a lion, rare dog breeds, or adorably wrinkly bulldog breeds. However, no matter which breed you hone in on, it is important to take a common sense approach, when choosing from the best dogs for kids and introducing a new pet to your household. "When searching for a pet dog for the family, parents often consult friends or relatives, or rely on their own personal experiences," says Janelle Emmett, DVM, veterinary technology program director at Carrington College's Sacramento, California campus who has practiced in companion animal medicine for 12 years. "Ideally, people should select a breed based upon the anticipated lifestyle of the dog and not just based on how fluffy the fur baby is. That helps in being mindful to match the personality and age of the child and the traits of the breed." Consider if you want a quiet dog with an easygoing personality, a low maintenance dog, or a dog suited to apartment living—though big dogs make surprisingly good family dogs, too. Additionally, parents must remember that nothing can replace careful monitoring of the child with the pet and good training, she notes. Before you bring a dog home, make sure you have all the items on this puppy checklist.

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Mkovalevskaya/Getty Images Cavalier King Charles spaniel

"The Cavalier King Charles spaniel is a wonderful family pet; a gentle, calm dog, who is happy to be combed and brushed," says Dr. Emmett on why this pup is one of the best dogs for kids and best family dogs, period. "This breed is, however, less enthusiastic about games, such as tug of war, and rough-and-tumble play. King Charles spaniels are a good match for a more urban lifestyle and a sensitive child." Cavs are also one of the cutest dogs with floppy ears.

Elizabethsalleebauer/Getty Images Golden retriever

"The golden retriever is one of the most well-known dogs because of their gentle, caring temperaments. They are able to lounge around the house for an afternoon or take a hike through the woods," says Pete Lands, DVM, director of emergency and critical care at Saint Francis Veterinary Center. Goldens are very bright and easy to train. They're also patient when it comes to kids. "While they may not like it, golden retrievers tend to be apathetic to young kids pulling on their ears or tugging at their tails. This makes them one of the best family dogs you can find," he adds. Not only are they one of the best dogs for kids, but they're also one of the smartest dog breeds.

Labrador retriever

They look large-and-in-charge, but Labs are famously child-friendly, making them one of the best family dogs. "The Labrador retriever is a reliable family pet," says Dr. Emmett. "This breed has an insatiable appetite for games and play and is well suited for an active outdoor lifestyle and a child who likes to run, throw balls, and play Frisbee." Labs get along with everyone, but do you know the best dog for your zodiac sign?

Shaw Photography Co./Getty Images Rescue dogs

Don't let worries about their past turn you off to shelter dogs. Many rescue dogs, who are waiting for their forever home, are gentle, loving, and grateful to be found by a wonderful family with kids. Plus, some have even already been potty-trained. "Most shelters arrange 'meet-and-greet' times, where you and your child can interact with prospective pets so you can find the right fit for your family," says Dr. Emmett. Many shelters also allow you to foster a dog for a day or two, providing an extra layer of comfort, so you don't have to rely on the love-at-first-sight rush you may feel at a shelter. If you come across a black and white dog, it could be one of these breeds.

Catherine Falls Commercial/Getty Images Beagle

Cute as a button, sweet, and gentle, these pack animals thrive on companionship. According to the American Kennel Club, these charmers are among the best dogs for kids and best dog breeds for families because they are loving by nature, love to play, and have goofy personalities. If you want a dog who wants to be with people, this is a great breed for your family. Pass beagles up, however, if your house is always empty during the day, and get a dog that can be left alone instead.

/\/\itul Patel / 500px/Getty Images Irish setter

Does your family love a good group jog or a game of beach Frisbee? If so, an Irish setter will be the perfect fit for you. Regal to look at and energetic beyond words, this breed grows to be large, around 50 to 70 pounds, and has a long lifespan, so they can grow up with your kids. Irish setters are one of the best family dogs, make great companions, are wonderful with children, have lively dispositions, and are some of the best dogs for first-time owners. They also love to play with toys and balls. They're not one of the fastest dog breeds, but if you're looking for a good running companion, Irish setters have the staying power.

Phichet Ritthiruangdet / EyeEm/Getty Images French bulldog

Frenchies, as they are affectionately known, are diminutive in size, but big in personality. Known for their affectionate natures and silly "bat" ears, French bulldogs were bred to be companion dogs. One of the best family dogs for apartment dwellers, Frenchies do well in small spaces and love being around kids. French bulldogs are also more likely to have patience with getting dressed up for Halloween. If you like pedigrees, you should know about these rare dog breeds too.

Boxer

Make a boxer part of your family, and you will never feel unprotected again. Fiercely loyal and protective of those who love them, these energetic, medium-sized dogs have calm dispositions, but love to play, making them one of the best dogs for kids with high energy. They need lots of exercise, but beware of driving them too hard in hot weather. Like all squish-faced (Brachycephalic) dogs, they tend to overheat. The same goes for dogs that look like bears! If it's hot out, walk them in the early morning when it's cooler.

NoSystem images/Getty Images Bichon frise

These little bundles of low-shedding fur are some of the friendliest dogs on the planet and is one of the best dog breeds for families. Sweet, affectionate, and playful, the bichon frise is a fantastic playmate for energetic children. Their small size makes them a great city dog, provided you give them lots of walks. According to Animal Planet, they're loyal to a fault and do best with consistent training and moderate amounts of activity. Plus, with their cloud-like coats, they're one of the most fluffy dog breeds!

Cocker spaniel

There's a definite possibility that cocker spaniels think they are people. They're gentle, loving, very smart, love being around children, and tend to always put themselves in the middle of the action. They also make great therapy dogs and may be a good fit for an anxious or special needs child. Cavalier King Charles spaniels are some of the best dogs for seniors, too. Their beautiful, floppy ears are prone to ear infections, so keeping them clean and groomed is essential. Or maybe you want to try one of these teacup dog breeds that are small enough for kids to hold.

Cavan Images/Getty Images Collie

Rough collies are known for their majestic, flowing coats, while smooth collies have shorter coats. Rough or smooth, collies are one of the best dogs for kids and big families. (However, rough collies require more grooming.) This breed is incredibly intelligent and likes nothing better than to engage in activity with the children who love them. They're fast learners, loyal to their families, and protective. Just ask Lassie! Their cousins, the border collie, are also one of the breeds of dogs with blue eyes.

patrickheagney/Getty Images Poodle

Have an allergy-prone child? According to Health, poodles might just be the ticket for you since it's one of the best dog breeds for families. While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, poodles seem to come close, because they appear to produce fewer allergens so they're one of the best dogs for kids with allergies. They also come in three sizes—standard, miniature, and toy—and an abundance of colors. These adorable goofballs are super-smart, easy to train, adapt well to new situations, and love kids. If your child can't stop sneezing, however, maybe look into getting a hairless dog instead.

Purple Collar Pet Photography/Getty Images Labradoodle

An intentional mix of poodles and Labrador retrievers, Labradoodles are as sweet as their name. A medium-shedder, Labradoodles were originally bred to be even-keeled and empathetic, so they could be trained as guide dogs for visually impaired people. This breed couldn't be more affectionate, or more adorable. Note that they need lots of exercise and tend to get along great with other dogs. If you're looking for a pup that will be totally devoted to your comfort, read up on the best emotional support dogs that will stand by you.

Pug

This Instagram-darling brings with it a major cuddle factor. Their cutie-patootie smiling faces and cozying-up tendencies make pugs a popular favorite for children who prefer gentle play to roughhousing. These playful pups were bred to be lap dogs and adore being around people. They're clever, quiet, and make great family pets. If you need some inspiration, these pug pictures should do the trick.

Ariel Skelley/Getty Images Chihuahua

Long-haired or short, chihuahuas are one of the cutest toy dog breeds. They tend to adore children and are very loyal to their families. Chihuahuas love the indoors and are not fond of very cold weather, perhaps because they're thought to have originated in Mexico. That means a ton of super sweet sweaters! They're easy to train and love the lap of the person who loves them best.

Chug

Chugs are a specific breed comprised of Pug and Chihuahua ancestry. Many have the best characteristics of both popular breeds, making them one of the best family dogs. Chugs are a designer dog with characteristics that vary from liter to liter. Like their forebears, most will make good family dogs. They're loyal, affectionate, intelligent, and love to play. Don't miss the zodiac signs as dogs to find out which pup you embody most.

Marco_Piunti/Getty Images Bull terrier

Bull terriers and miniature bull terriers are one of the best dogs for kids that are older in age. They are sweet beyond belief, very protective, and very trainable. The American Kennel Club calls them mischievous, playful, and charming. Known for their silly, comical antics, and crowd-pleasing behavior, bull terriers need lots of exercise and lots of love. If you're looking to add a kitty to the family, check out these dogs that are good with cats.

@Hans Surfer/Getty Images Havanese

This tiny charmer is the national dog of Cuba. They have exuberant personalities and adore people of all ages. Havanese dogs are very social and outgoing. A loving breed, they also enjoy playing games. They're a toy breed, so not a great fit for rough-and-tumble play, but they're one of the best dog breeds for families who are looking for a silly, outgoing friend for their child. To get to know your dog even more, learn about the 50 secrets your pup won't tell you.

Sources:

Janelle Emmett, DVM, veterinary technology program director at Carrington College's Sacramento, California campus

Originally Published: July 02, 2021

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Golden Retriever Puppy Overcome With Joy Upon Picking Up Brother From School

You can always tell when your dog has a favorite person. They're not very subtle about it. In one family, their Golden Retriever's number one is their young son. As can be seen in a video of the pup practically spinning when they picked the boy up from school recently.

Little Lucky was so excited when they realized it was his little human they were picking up that day.

He probably had been waiting all day to see his favorite family member. It had been hours since they dropped him off at school. In the clip he was even sitting in the youngster's car seat while they were waiting for him to be dismissed. You can totally tell the instant he saw his "brother." His tail started wagging faster and faster and then he stood up and started whining. "Come herreeee," he seemed to say.

Related: 9-Week-Old Golden Retriever Quickly Picking Up on Tricks Might Earn Him the Smartest Puppy Award

The tail wags got even faster as the boy came close to the car. Lucky stood up on his hind legs and stuck his head out the window. He couldn't wait.

By the looks of it the child was just as happy to see the pup. He was smiling from ear-to-ear. Dad carefully entered the car first and held Lucky back while the boy got into the car and sat in his car seat. Once the door was shut, he let Lucky go and the two cuddled.

"Lucky's first time picking Luke up from school, the excitement is just too sweet," the video's caption reads.

We don't know about you, but this definitely pulled at our heartstrings. Goldens are just so precious. And Golden Retrievers make the perfect family pets.

As Lucky demonstrates, Golden Retrievers are loving and affectionate dogs. They're also gentle and are good with both children and other animals. These loyal pups are eager to please their owners and are therefore easy to train. They don't need a lot of grooming and are relatively low-maintenance, which is good for a family with busy schedules.

Goldens are also very active, they need lots of play to be happy. Young kids will love running around with a Golden. They'll run and jump and play around as much as kids do. Plus Goldens tend to "latch-on" to their humans, meaning your little one will have a constant companion.

As for Lucky, we have to imagine his bond with his human brother was immediate. These two are totally going to be best friends for life.

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