child and dog

No wonder so many hesitate before agreeing. The dog in the house is wool everywhere, the need to walk several times a day, often damaged furniture. A puppy is a new member of the family, which needs to be given a lot of attention and education. Be prepared for the fact that most of the responsibilities will eventually fall on you, because the child simply does not realize the need for some of them or cannot physically provide proper care. If you have come to terms with this, then why not please your child? The dog has a beneficial effect on the child. Psychologists have proven that pets reduce the aggressiveness of children, and also teach responsibility.

Usually parents wonder at what age the child is mentally mature enough to properly handle the pet. There is no universal answer. Legally, independent dog walking is allowed from the age of 14 or 18 (depending on the breed of the dog). However, feeding, playing, training and educating, of course, can be done much earlier. It is of great importance how responsible your child is, how he perceives animals. Any pet is not a toy that can always be sent to the shelf. The animal requires daily care and attention.

Acquisition of a dog should not happen immediately, after the first request. You need to prepare for this both yourself and have a serious conversation with the child. To make this process more fun and easier, you can read together about different breeds of dogs, caring for them, and features of psychology. Explain to the child that it takes a lot of time and work to turn a small lump into a real “Volta” or “Pluto”.

If you have already made a decision, weighing all the pros and cons, then you have probably moved on to choosing a breed. This is an important question. The breed of the dog determines its activity and character, which should be suitable for the age and temperament of the child. Definitely, you should not acquire a companion that will be larger than its little master. Puppies grow faster than humans, so in a few years you will most likely have to put safety on the agenda. A large dog can accidentally seriously injure a child while playing. 

But one should not go to the opposite extreme: a small dog will not be able to resist a child who does not yet know how to properly handle animals. It is not recommended to purchase specialized dogs, such as hunting dogs. They need appropriate training and activities, with their lack, an excess of energy is formed, which turns into aggression. It is unlikely that holes in the sofa will contribute to the upbringing of the child and a good mood. Pay attention to decorative, sports and service breeds.

If possible, it is worth choosing a Labrador and a Golden Retriever: these are very sociable, friendly and loyal pets. Collies are very friendly and easily take the initiative in games, obedient and smart. St. Bernard and Newfoundland are good for older children, because they are very large, although they are patient. German Shepherds are smart and learn quickly. The Airedale Terrier is a positive dog, easily gets along with children, is not lazy. The Dalmatian has an extraordinary appearance and tirelessness. Active teenagers will surely be delighted with a sociable setter. Schnauzers require enhanced care, but they adore children. The West Highland White Terrier has proven to be a good, well-balanced dog.

Little poodles are energetic and docile, but only on the condition that you pay enough attention to education. Bassets are very good-natured, but they are not suitable for small children. Pugs are small, but affectionate and quickly get along with other animals.

The choice of breed is not so important. Any puppy, even a mongrel, having received a lot of love and warmth, will answer you in the same way. The main thing is to sincerely take care of the pet and enjoy it with your child.