The kids have been begging for a puppy for years. You've been able to put them off with some fish, maybe a hamster, or even a cat. But this time, only something with four feet from the canine family is going to do.

Although many people are happy to get a mixed breed puppy, others like to know a little more about what that cute little ball of fur will look like in a year. If that’s the case, then it’s time to look at purebred dogs. But how do you find the best one for your family? We asked Gina DiNardo, assistant vice president of the American Kennel Club and second-generation dog fancier, for some advice.

Q: What kind of research should I do when trying to decide which breed is best for my family?

A: You should consult your veterinarian and then look on the AKC web site. Look at each breed you’re interested in and determine the exercise requirements, the grooming requirements, the temperament, and trainability of each breed. Once you’ve narrowed it down to a few breeds, then talk to some experts on those breeds. You can go to a dog show and talk to breeders, or use our web site and call people from the national club.

After you’re sure it’s a breed you’re interested in, then spend time with each breed, either by going to a dog show or contacting a local breeder. A good breeder will let you interact with their dogs because any dog they place with your family will be with you for life. So they want to be sure not only that the dog is right for you, but also that your family is right for the dog.

Q: Are some breeds just more “kid friendly” than others? Which ones?

A: The highly trainable breeds are great with kids because they’re usually eager to please and are usually more family oriented, rather than attaching themselves to one person. Look at the sporting group. These are dogs that were bred to work side by side with man, taking direction from their owner. They also are some of the most popular family dogs -- your golden retrievers, your Labrador retrievers. Some of your herding breeds also are highly trainable, such as German shepherds and collies.

Q: Are there some breeds that just shouldn’t be around children?

A: No, all breeds, if socialized properly and brought up with children will be fine with children.

Q: What about size? Is it OK to get small dogs if you have small children?

A: Usually, I say to get a larger breed if you have smaller children because they’re more durable. If a small child pulls on an ear or steps on the foot of a large dog, that dog is going to tolerate it more. If a child steps on the foot of a miniature pincher or a Chihuahua, the dog could be injured and sometimes that’s how a child gets bitten. The dog reacts to being injured and bites the child. So I always say the larger dogs, the sturdier dogs, are better for small children.

Which Dog Breed Is Right for You?