[header] How to choose a dog for older kids [title] Think about the time and space you have available. [step] Consider how much time you and your child have for walking, brushing and grooming, training, and playing. If you want to keep grooming low maintenance, consider a shorthaired dog that's recommended for families, like a boxer. 
[substeps] If you don't have the space in your home and yard for a larger breed, consider apartment dogs, like italian greyhounds and chihuahuas. Keep in mind that, while fine for older kids, smaller breeds are fragile and aren't recommended for younger children.