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'I'm A Dog Trainer – There Are Three Breeds I've Seen Go Terribly Wrong With Kids'
Expert dog trainer Will Atherton has revealed the three dog breeds he wouldn't recommend for a family home with children, having seen them go 'terribly wrong' before
Belgian Malinois (file) (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
An expert dog trainer has listed three dog breeds he wouldn't have around children in a family home.
Canine behaviourist Will Atherton has more than 900,000 followers on TikTok, where he regularly dispenses dog training tips. He also advises his followers on which dog breeds will suit them, depending on their lifestyle and the breed's temperament.
In one of his videos, which has been viewed more than 9.3million times, Will reveals what he believes to be the "worst dog breeds for families", discussing how each breed could potentially pose a danger to young children.
"My job is helping fix dogs when they've gone terribly wrong," he explained. "So which are the breeds I see that happen most often to, that you as a family member might want to steer well clear of?"
Belgian MalinoisDespite the Belgian Malinois being capable of "crazy feats of obedience and training", Will doesn't think the breed is suitable for families with kids. He explained: "They bite children, they hurt children, they have no off switch and they want to be go, go, go all the time."
Caucasian Shepherd Caucasian Shepherd (file) (Image:
Getty Images/iStockphoto)Will pinpointed the Caucasian Shepherd, but also said "any of the giant livestock guardian breeds" can cause issues. He continued: "Yes, they can be protective of the family, but they're much better suited to live outside on a farm. And if you try and bring them into the home, they might not have the patience or the ability to get away from children that they find frustrating." Will added that this can often lead to "bites on children".
Dogo ArgentinoWill said he "loves mastiff breeds" but, out of all of them, he hear's about the Dogo Argentino "going wrong with children" the most.
The Dogo Argentino is one of the five dog breeds that are banned in the UK. The others are the Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Fila Brasileiro, and the XL Bully most recently.
10 Best Pastoral Dog Breeds For Your Farming Needs
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Pastoral dogs, or herding dogs as they're often called, are working partners on the farm and much-loved family pals. According to PDSA, these dogs are born to lead and watch over livestock, no matter the weather. They love a good day's work and need tasks to stay happy.
These energetic pups are smart cookies who love to learn new tricks. Herding is their game, and they're so good at it that sometimes they might try to herd other pets or even you! They're brainy, adaptable, and always ready for action—perfect for folks who like to stay active and have fun.
Thanks to their fluffy double coats, pastoral dogs are ready for any kind of weather. But remember all that fluff means they'll need regular grooming to keep looking sharp.
Now, let's jump in and meet 10 awesome pastoral dog breeds that might just steal your heart!
Pastoral Dog Breeds 1. Border Collie
The Border Collie, a British herding dog, is a medium-sized, super-smart pooch that's mostly seen helping out with sheep on farms. They're not just good at herding; they're also stars at search and rescue jobs, tracking, and sniffing out important stuff. They often pick a favorite person and stick to them like glue.
These dogs have a natural talent for guiding sheep and keeping them together, which is why they're famous for rounding up animals for the shepherd. Border Collies love to bark, especially when they see something moving because they're always on the lookout.
They tend to shed a lot of fur, especially when the seasons change. You'll need to brush your Border Collie every week to keep their coat tidy, but they don't need fancy haircuts.
Being one of the brainiest breeds around, Border Collies pick up on training really quickly and love to make their owners happy. Petplan notes that they're full of beans and super bright, which is great, but it means they're not always the best choice if you've never had a dog before.
2. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, or Sheltie, is a small but mighty herding dog from Scotland's Shetland Islands. They were bred to be quick, smart, and on their toes, always ready to herd sheep—or anything else that moves, like squirrels, birds, or even kids.
The American Kennel Club reports that Shelties are whizzes when it comes to learning new things. They're so good at it that they often work as service or therapy dogs, and they're also great at letting you know when someone's around, thanks to their protective nature.
A Sheltie loves to be by your side, following you everywhere. They really need company and don't like being alone much. They're a chatty bunch, too, and will bark to communicate or alert you.
With lots of pep, Shelties need plenty of playtime. They're great with kids and have enough energy to keep up with them all day long. Training a Sheltie is a breeze if you're gentle and patient. They're softies at heart, so kind words and treats work wonders.
Their beautiful coat does need some care—brushing every day will keep them looking their best and prevent any pesky knots.
3. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is a strong and lively dog, full of energy and always ready for action. They first came about way back in 1899 in Germany, where they were bred to round up sheep and help out on farms. Today, they're known for all sorts of jobs, from helping people with disabilities to working with police and even in the army. According to Statista, they were the top pastoral dog in the UK in 2022!
These smart pups are great for families, especially when they get the training they need. Without it, they might get nervous or too bossy. They're super smart and love to make their owners happy by following commands and learning new things.
German Shepherds have lots of energy and need to stay busy with exercise and games to keep them happy. If they don't get enough to do, they might start barking a lot or chewing things they shouldn't. They love being outside, so take them on long walks or play with them in the park to keep them fit and content.
German Shepherds need a good brush now and then to keep their coats looking nice. How often depends on what they're up to and the time of year. Usually, giving them a good grooming every month or two is just right. But when it comes to spring and fall, they shed a lot. That's when you might need to brush them more often to keep their fur from getting everywhere.
4. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi may be on the smaller side, but don't let their size fool you—they're strong, active, and have a big heart. The Queen herself is a fan of these cuddly dogs. Corgis have been helping out with herding and hanging out as family buddies in Wales for a long time, and they're still herding champs today.
Corgis make loyal, loving pets that fit right into family life. They're smart little cookies and love having a job to do. They keep their eyes peeled and will let you know if someone's at the door with a bark—they're fearless like that, which comes from their days dodging cattle.
Training a Corgi is usually pretty smooth, even if they like to stick to their guns sometimes. They're good pals to have around the house. A quick brush once a week keeps their coat neat, but they do shed, so you might find fur here and there.
One thing to watch out for is their weight—they love their food a bit too much and can get heavy, which isn't great for their short legs and long backs. So, keep the treats to a minimum and make sure they get plenty of walks.
5. Beauceron
The Beauceron is a big, smart, and lively herding dog—think of a Border Collie's smarts in a much larger package. They're not just strong and good-looking; they're also known for being gentle, making them fantastic family protectors and buddies.
Despite their size, Beaucerons are graceful and well-balanced. They weren't originally bred for rounding up sheep like some other shepherd dogs, but they're so adaptable that they can be trained for herding, protection work, agility, and even winter sports like skijoring.
This breed is smart and needs lots of exercises and brain games to stay happy. They're pretty strong-willed, so they're best with owners who know how to handle dogs. When trained and socialized right, Beaucerons are calm and protective, especially great with kids and those who need a gentle guardian.
Early training is key for Beauceron puppies because they're energetic and need to learn how to play nice with everyone, pets included. Without enough to do, a bored Beauceron might get into trouble. They have a thick double coat that needs a bit more brushing than usual, especially when they shed their fur twice a year.
6. Berger Picard
The Berger Picard, also known as the Picardy shepherd, is a unique and rare dog from northern France. Loved by farmers and sheepherders in Picardy for their herding skills, these dogs are as independent and smart as they are friendly and kind-hearted. They form strong bonds with their families and can win anyone over with their distinctive looks and quirky smiles that seem almost human.
WebMD says that these dogs are confident yet laid-back, packed with energy for days of herding or just playing around. Loyal to the core, a Berger Picard will always be ready to stand up for their family if needed.
Caring for their coat is pretty straightforward—no trimming needed, except maybe a little tidy-up around the ears. They don't shed too much, so a bit of grooming now and then keeps them looking sharp. With their lively spirit and tough nature, Berger Picards are always up for an adventure.
7. Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd, affectionately known as the Aussie, is a huge hit in the United States, loved for its endless energy and brilliant mind. These dogs are not just fun and engaging companions; they're also incredibly hardworking, serving as top-notch assistance dogs.
American ranchers initially favored Aussies for their exceptional herding abilities, but these dogs gained widespread popularity for their impressive performances in rodeos, showcasing not just their herding skills but also their ability to do tricks.
Aussies are versatile, taking on roles such as Seeing Eye dogs, hearing dogs, drug detectors, and search and rescue helpers, thanks to their sharp intelligence. They thrive on human interaction and require lots of engagement. Despite their vibrant nature, they have a tender side and don't like being alone for too long, making them ideal for people who can spend a good part of the day with them, including those working from home.
Some joke that Aussies only shed twice a year, each time lasting six months! They're heavy shedders, indeed, requiring daily brushing to manage their fluffy coats.
8. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog, sometimes called the Australian Heeler or just Cattle Dog, is a herding breed from Australia, created to help drive cattle across the country's expansive terrains. This breed shines in endurance, agility, and athleticism, perfect for the demands of herding.
With its sharp mind, unwavering loyalty, and impressive work ethic, the Australian Cattle Dog is a standout in intelligence among dog breeds. It's born with a herding instinct, easily trained, and always ready for a challenge. This dog is not just a hard worker; it's also a vigilant guard and watchdog, fiercely independent and protective. While it has a strong bond with its family, its herding nature might make it a bit too much for families with little kids or smaller pets.
These dogs need to keep their brains busy and love training that feels like play, responding well to positive encouragement. With energy to spare, the Australian Cattle Dog needs plenty of activities to stay happy. They're not ones for lounging around and do best when they have a job to do.
Caring for their coat is pretty easy. They have a short, double coat that keeps them protected in all kinds of weather, needing just a weekly brush to stay clean and tidy.
9. Canaan Dog
The Canaan Dog, also known as Kelef K'naani, is Israel's national dog and has a history that stretches back thousands of years. Originally bred for guarding and herding livestock in the Middle East's deserts, these dogs are still quick on their feet and ready to work.
Canaan Dogs are tough, smart, and able to learn quickly, but they do best when they're well socialized from a young age. They've been employed in various roles, from herding and guarding to tracking and even serving as guide dogs. While they can be wary around strangers and new situations, they're incredibly loyal to their families, often vocal and full of fun.
These dogs like to think for themselves and might find repetitive training dull. They enjoy variety in their training sessions, along with plenty of praise and the occasional treat. Canaan Dogs may also challenge their owners for leadership, needing someone who is confident and consistent in handling them.
The Canaan Dog has a short double coat that requires more frequent brushing during their bi-annual heavy shedding periods. For the rest of the year, a weekly brush should suffice to keep their coat in good condition.
10. Belgian MalinoisThe Belgian Malinois is one of the four distinct Belgian sheepdog breeds, each bred for herding in different regions of Belgium. Originally tasked with protecting livestock and the farm, the Belgian Malinois still embodies the protective and vigilant qualities of a top-notch guardian today.
This breed thrives on being part of a family, forming strong bonds with its members. They possess a sharp sense of smell and often display a high interest in toys, making them well-suited for active families who can match their energy levels. However, the Belgian Malinois is not the laid-back type; they are known to bark a lot, sometimes without any apparent reason.
The Belgian Malinois may not be the best fit for first-time dog owners due to their need for a confident handler and plenty of both physical and mental stimulation. Without experienced training and exercise, they may exhibit anxious and disruptive behaviors. They naturally tend to herd, driven by their instincts.
Their grooming routine is relatively straightforward, requiring weekly brushing and monthly baths, with extra care needed during their shedding seasons in spring and fall.
Choosing a Pastoral Breed: Are You Ready for the Energy?If you're thinking about bringing a pastoral dog into your life, get ready for action! These herding breeds are among the most active and thrive with plenty of tasks to tackle. They're not suited for couch potato life but make fantastic, devoted pets for those who can match their high energy levels. Here's a snapshot of what to expect when you choose a pastoral breed as your four-legged companion.
Final ThoughtHerding dog breeds, especially those within the pastoral category, exhibit behavior well-suited for active roles and environments. Pastoral breeds, like the collie breeds, are not only adept at livestock protection but also thrive with the right training, proving to be valuable assets to farm life.
A pastoral dog breed loves engaging tasks, and providing them with proper nutrition, like high-quality pastoral dog wet food, is crucial for their well-being. Organizations like the Kennel Club offer resources and guidelines to ensure these good farm dog breeds are cared for in a way that nurtures their spirited nature.
10 Police Dog Breeds Used In Law Enforcement
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Dogs have been helping humans in battles and wars for thousands of years, dating back to ancient times like Xerxes' invasion of Greece in 479 BC. They've also been used by law enforcement for centuries to guard areas and track down criminals.
Today, around 50,000 police dogs are actively working in the U.S., performing essential tasks like finding drugs, detecting explosives, capturing criminals, locating missing people, and gathering evidence at crime scenes.
These brave dogs have even laid down their lives to protect officers and save civilians, showing their deep loyalty and courage. Police dogs are not just helpers—they are trusted partners who play a key role in keeping our communities safe.
Here are the top 10 police dog breeds that play a vital part in supporting law enforcement in their mission to serve and protect society.
Top 10 Police Dog Breeds 1. Belgian MalinoisBelgian Malinois has become a popular choice for police work in recent years. These medium-sized dogs are known for their high energy, agility, and strong drive to work, making them perfect for law enforcement roles. They are fearless, highly motivated, and easy to train. Since they are smaller than German Shepherds, they can maneuver into tighter spaces during searches.
Belgian Malinois are versatile in police tasks, excelling in suspect apprehension, search and rescue, and detecting explosives. Their athletic ability and speed allow them to handle tough terrains and overcome obstacles with ease, making them ideal for tasks that require agility and quick reactions. They have the stamina to work long hours and still remain full of energy, which is why they are such effective police dogs.
In addition to being easy to train, Belgian Malinois have a strong work ethic, making them dependable partners for officers. Their loyalty, intelligence, and ability to solve problems ensure they can adapt to any situation and perform their duties with great effectiveness.
2. German ShepherdThe German Shepherd is the most popular choice for police work across the country, often seen as the ideal police dog breed. Known for their intelligence, stamina, and loyalty, German Shepherds have played a key role in law enforcement for many years.
Their versatility allows them to be trained for a wide range of tasks, including apprehending suspects, finding missing people, and tracking down evidence at crime scenes. With their strong sense of smell, agility, and strength, German Shepherds can easily navigate tough terrains and overcome obstacles while pursuing targets.
One of their standout qualities is their calm and steady nature, even in stressful situations, making them perfect for search and rescue missions, disaster response, and even comforting victims of crime or trauma. Their wide-ranging skills and reliability have solidified their reputation as one of the top breeds in law enforcement.
3. BoxerBoxers have a long-standing history as guard and patrol dogs, even serving alongside U.S. Troops during both world wars. Over time, they have become a popular breed for police work.
Boxers are known for their intelligence, stability, and friendly nature, making them highly trainable and well-suited for law enforcement tasks.
While they are widely used for policing in Germany and other European countries, they haven't gained the same popularity in the U.S., where it's uncommon to see them working with police agencies.
4. Bouvier des FlandresAt first glance, the shaggy Bouvier des Flandres might seem like a cuddly companion, but underneath that thick coat is a strong, muscular dog built for search and rescue. Historically, these dogs were used by customs officers and smugglers, thanks to their dark coats, intelligence, and ability to move quickly and unnoticed across borders. Poachers also prized them for their speed.
Bouviers have an excellent sense of smell, making them great tracking dogs in police work. Their obedience and calm temperament make them easy to work with, as these well-mannered dogs are eager to help their handlers.
Though more commonly found in European police forces than in the U.S., the Bouvier des Flandres' impressive skills make them valuable in law enforcement anywhere.
5. BloodhoundsBloodhounds are famous for their exceptional tracking skills, relying on their powerful sense of smell to locate people. According to AKC, they were used to track deer and other animals, but by the 16th century, they began helping to track people as well.
Today, Bloodhounds play a key role in law enforcement and search-and-rescue missions. Their tracking abilities are so precise that the evidence they help uncover can be used in court. These dogs are able to differentiate between individual scents, and their sense of smell is believed to be thousands of times stronger than a human's.
This makes them highly effective in large search areas and in detecting substances like drugs. Bloodhounds are often used at the U.S. Border to stop drug smuggling, proving their worth to police agencies around the world.
6. Dutch ShepherdsThough not as famous as other shepherd breeds, Dutch Shepherds are among the smartest and most alert K-9 dogs. Originally used for herding, their athleticism and intelligence caught the attention of police and military forces when industrialization reduced the demand for herding dogs. Their adaptability and trainability made them perfect for police work and search and rescue missions, roles in which they still excel today.
Dutch Shepherds are quick to adjust to new situations and have a strong work ethic, making them highly effective in various police duties. They are known for being reliable, intelligent, and protective without being aggressive, making them excellent for patrolling and detection work. With their quick learning abilities and enthusiasm, Dutch Shepherds handle crowded or tight urban spaces with ease.
In addition to search and rescue and detection tasks, Dutch Shepherds excel in dog sports and even in herding jobs, thanks to their sharp minds and athletic abilities. Their versatility and intelligence make them valuable assets in law enforcement and beyond.
7. Labrador RetrieversThe Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular and adaptable police dog breeds. They are known for being smart, friendly, and having an amazing sense of smell. Labradors are often used to sniff out drugs, explosives, and other illegal items. Their gentle and approachable personality also makes them great for search and rescue missions, especially when it comes to helping children.
Because they look friendly and non-threatening, Labradors work well in public spaces, helping law enforcement create a positive image. Their calm nature can ease any worries in places like airports or schools, while they work to detect dangers or maintain order.
In addition to their detection skills, Labradors are also used to track suspects and assist with investigations. Their trainability, loyalty, and desire to please their handlers make them valuable members of police forces in the U.S. And around the world.
8. BeagleThe Beagle might not be the first dog you think of when it comes to K-9 units, but they have two key qualities that make them stand out: their small size and incredible sense of smell. Beagles are excellent at detecting drugs and food, which makes them highly valuable for customs agencies. Their compact size allows them to fit into tight spaces, like security conveyor belts or baggage holds on buses and planes, making them extremely useful to police.
Beagles that are calm and responsive to commands are ideal for police work. Known for having one of the best noses in the dog world, they are often found in airports, sniffing out contraband, weapons, and drugs. Their friendly, non-threatening appearance helps them move through busy areas without drawing much attention. Because they're small and agile, Beagles can jump over luggage and navigate through tight spaces, making them great for search and rescue missions in areas with lots of debris.
Their ease of training for police tasks and service dog roles only adds to their value, securing their spot as important members of law enforcement teams.
9. Doberman PinscherThe Doberman Pinscher is a strong and muscular breed known for excelling in both police and military work, as well as being a loyal companion at home. Originally from Germany, according to the DPCA, Dobermans are recognized for their bravery, intelligence, and loyalty. While their sleek, intimidating appearance is notable, it's their smarts and loyalty that make them ideal for police tasks. Their powerful build and fearless attitude make them perfect for demanding roles, such as protecting officers and apprehending suspects.
Dobermans are highly trainable and have a natural instinct to protect their handlers. Their speed and agility allow them to chase down suspects quickly and control them until officers arrive. This makes them valuable in high-risk operations, such as SWAT missions, where their mere presence can deter threats.
In addition to their protective nature, Dobermans are also excellent detection dogs. Their sharp sense of smell helps them detect narcotics, explosives, and other illegal substances. Their versatility and ability to adapt to different situations have made them a popular choice for police departments worldwide.
10. American Pit Bull TerrierThe American Pit Bull Terrier is an intriguing choice for police work. Despite their often negative reputation, Pit Bulls have become more popular in U.S. Police agencies over the past decade. They are commonly used as detector dogs because they are much more affordable to breed and train compared to breeds like the German Shepherd. Pit Bulls, especially those rescued from shelters, are much cheaper.
These strong and agile dogs are mainly used for patrolling and detecting substances, but they also serve as excellent protectors and guard dogs. Known for their speed and bravery, they can chase down criminals and help in high-risk situations. Their tough image as former fighting dogs makes them especially useful in handling violent crowds and domestic disputes.
Many police departments are now adopting Pit Bulls, thanks to grant programs that promote rescuing these dogs. This approach not only helps save dogs but also strengthens K-9 units in a budget-friendly way.
ConclusionThe best police dog breeds have proven to be invaluable assets to law enforcement agencies worldwide. With their keen sense of smell and agility, these dogs excel in tasks like locating crime scene evidence, assisting in search and rescue operations, and even detecting threats in busy areas like airport or train station. Their ability to find missing persons and track down criminals makes them vital members of any police force.
Popular police dog breeds undergo rigorous police dog training to ensure they are well-prepared to work alongside their handlers in high-pressure situations. From sniffing out contraband to providing critical support during investigations, these dedicated K9s play an essential role in protecting and serving communities, demonstrating their unique skills and loyalty to their police dog handlers every day.
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