Most children have an endearing and infectious fascination over dogs. Parents cannot resist the children’s request for a canine family member. They’re so drawn by it that they tend to forget that getting a dog is like having a new child in the family. Having a dog entails responsibilities that can be overwhelming to a child, especially if the child is not well-oriented with pets. Pet care is more than just buying food, treats, shampoo, flea powder, biobag dog waste bags, dog poop scooper, and toys. In fact, pet care is more than just playing with the dog.
Before parents get a dog for their children, they must search for the right breed for the family. Breed characteristics will determine if the dog is the right one for the family. Take the chow-chow as an example. Children are attracted to its furry and bear-like appearance but they don’t know that the chow-chow can get moody. Children can get a little too playful in unavoidable situations but the chow-chow will not react to this too well. The same goes for the Pembroke Welsh corgi as well. Its tiny structure can be very deceiving. Although not ferocious, their herding nature makes them prone to nipping, which is not safe for a family with little children.
It is not all the time that animals are as cute or as ferocious as they look. The English bulldog, for instance, has been feared by many for the longest time. But, only dog experts and enthusiasts know that the presently-bred English bulldog is one of the most ideal animals to keep when there are kids at home. Although not athletic and extremely hyper, the English bulldog of today has a very docile and friendly disposition. You will see a lot of videos in the internet about kids (even babies) and English bulldogs playing together.
Just because a dog is not playful does not mean that it cannot be kept at home with the kids. The Rottweiler is a well-known guard dog that has caused many human fatalities. One look at its majestic stance and you’ll already know that you cannot mess with this breed. Yet, Rottweilers are very protective of their own household. When socialized and trained well, they can make very good playmates for children.
The breed is a large determinant in buying a dog but it still boils down to the time you can invest on it and how much adjustment you are willing to make. Parents should teach their children the right ways of handling and petting a dog so they don’t hurt the dog. Little children at around ages 2-4 think they can carry a small dog but they carry it in awkward positions that can hurt the dog. This can either cause injury to the dog or to the child. Remember, dogs get aggressive when threatened. Parents should take time to teach their kids and instill in them that dogs are not toys. Dogs are living things that also have emotions and feelings. Parents should also train their kids to implement proper pet care. A dog needs to be feed, taken out for walks, and given baths. Unlike toys, you can’t just abandon a dog just because you’re sick of it.
The family also needs to invest time in training and socializing the dog. It has to be socialized properly so it learns how to deal with other people and animals. Teach the dog basic obedience commands so that the children will not have a difficult time controlling the dog. Finally, encourage the whole family to set aside time for the dog. Dogs are pack creatures that look up to the leader. Show the dog that the family members are the leaders by showering them with love and affection without losing the discipline.










