Dobermans

[LP]

There is a legitimate argument for getting a mongrel though, as, oddly, they tend to be healthier than purebreds, though there are some purebreds that are naturally hardy (provided they come from a good breeder).

Yes the mongrel/hybrid debate is an interesting one. I think the two healthiest dogs we have had have been cross breeds/hybrids. We have had a few of pedigree as well but they have always had some little issues despite allegedly coming from good stock and at high cost.

Apparently Labradors have one of the worst records of all dogs in Australia for biting people? However, they tend to bite arms or legs. Other breeds are different, such as bull breeds tend to go more for the face/neck which is potentially a lot more dangerous. Having said that my Staffie is very friendly to people and makes a totally useless guard dog as he would welcome people into the house with great enthusiasm. May be a bit different if a possum tried to call in though! 

I think the statistics can be distorted by the popularity of certain breeds, but it just highlights the need for care with children around large dogs.

I think having a pet/dog is vitally important for children, the parents are probably the biggest problem not the pet/dog.