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7 Reasons Having a Dog is Good for Children

Having a dog in the house involves a lot of work. Although it is definitely worth the price of having such a loving presence in the home, there are many things to consider when planning to have a pet.

This is even more relevant if you have children in the house. Beyond raising your kids, you have to ensure that a dog receives the amount of care and love required too.

Some parents are reluctant to open their homes to a pet. One concern may be that having a dog can be dangerous to a child or cause other complications.

Suppose you need more information about what to feed your furry friend, how to train them, or any other helpful advice.

In that case, you can refer to articles, tips, and guides provided by Black Hawk Pet Care for expert knowledge on various topics.

Did you know that welcoming a dog into the family is great for children? Here are some benefits of having a dog in a home with children.   

Loyal Companionship

A dog is a great friend to have, a fact that even scientists agree on. Playful pups are a fantastic mate for kids since they both need attention and fun in their daily lives.

If you only have one child, a dog can also provide companionship they would otherwise lack without human siblings.

Studies have shown that when only children have a dog in the house, they are less lonely, say the experts at mom.com. Your child would also be learning valuable life lessons when they have someone to share space and their parent’s love with.  

Steadfast Protector

Whether your intended pet is a lapdog or a large breed, having a dog in the house can discourage thieves and reduce break-ins.

Dogs are the ideal deterrent against robberies as they can be protective, especially when children are in the house.

At the same time, dogs form a solid and unique bond with young ones in the family, tending to defend and cherish children as a protector in their own right. Thus, having a pet will ensure that your child and home are safe too.  

happy girl with dogs at sunset

Boosted Immune System

It is natural for kids to have some childhood illnesses. After all, that is how the body builds its defenses.

However, research shows that kids who live with dogs tend to be healthier, says moderndogmagazine.com. They get less sick and are at lower risk of getting respiratory infections, colds, or breathing conditions such as asthma.  

This is because dogs bring in different kinds of germs and bacteria that help children’s bodies to learn to defend against. Thus, they are less susceptible to sickness and other threats as they grow.

Increased Activity

Dogs need a lot of exercise and playtime, and so do kids. Having both in the same environment helps to keep your child active and healthy.

You can get your children’s help in walking the dog, playing with them, and training them. This can help ensure that your kids get the exercise they require and keep them occupied and active.

Teaches Responsibility

Dogs need a lot of care, and your child will be able to learn to handle some responsibility for their well-being as well.

You can get your kids’ help in handling the tasks required to keep a dog in good health and happy spirits.

As your children grow older, you can give them more responsibilities for taking care of the dog, such as changing the water bowl, bathing and grooming, and feeding the pup, recommends Stuck on You.

Compassion and Emotional Intelligence

There are many life lessons that a dog can teach a child. Among those lessons are compassion, kindness, love, and selflessness.

These are hard lessons to teach and learn, but having a pet makes these teachings much easier to accept.

A child growing up with a dog is typically also more confident. Essentially, having a dog can help your child become a better person.

Aid in Development

Beyond helping to create an active and emotionally well-balanced child, dogs can also help with other forms of child development.

By getting your child to call the dog, give commands and teach tricks, you can help your kids’ speech.

Besides, having a dog to share your attention and time can help teach your kids social skills and the merits of compromise.

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