Have you been thinking about getting a dog for your kid(s). Adopting a pet is a really respectable thing to do, but there are deep responsibilities that come with it.
Dogs are adorable, affectionate animals that every kid would wish to have as a pet. They are teachers, entertainers, friends, and best protectors.
However, many of us think that dogs are dirty animals that poop everywhere, have allergies, and carry a lot of diseases. This is why most parents avoid having dogs in their homes.
Below are some pros and cons for getting a dog for your child:
They Are A True Friend
Dogs can help a child cope with loneliness and stress.
It is proven that having a pet as a companion can be a great substitute when your child’s friends aren’t available to play.
Dogs can also help kids get over stress and depression. They are best friends who are ever willing to play when kids need them. They won’t yell at you, annoy you, or fight with you. And children feel that they can share anything with a dog without being judged.
They Can Protect Kids
Dogs are very protective when it comes to their owners. They follow kids everywhere they go and ensure their safety in many ways.
Did you know a child walking with a dog is less likely to be picked on or bullied?
Also, a well-trained dog can prevent intruders from getting into your home. This provides peace of mind for children (and adults) who might struggle with the thought of people breaking in.
As much as a dog can protect a child, physically, you’ll want to make sure the dog is kept clean at all times so that you can protect your child from the things you can’t see — like diseases.
Make sure you bathe your dog quite often and clip off excess fur that could be home to pests using top-quality clippers such as best clippers for Shih Tzu. Great quality clippers can save you so much money in the long run by not having to pay grooming bills.
They Can Help Kids Develop Skills
By spending time with a dog, children learn to become better caretakers and more responsible.
Kids might find it enjoyable to take care of a dog and having this new daily routine. This helps them understand how it feels to be in charge of something.
Dogs can help kids develop better reading skills (by listening patiently). They can also keep them from engaging in petty fights around the neighborhood.
They Help Maintain Good Health
Dogs help to maintain good health.
They love to play, jump, and run, and the child will love to play along. Regular walks with dogs will help them get away from computers, television, and phones, and they will embrace frequent walks, fresh air, and good exercise.
Also, a dog might help a child have a more robust immune system to prevent illness. This is because dogs are less prone to allergies and asthma as many pets do (for example, cats).
They Promote Emotional Development
Kids feel wanted in the company of a dog. As mentioned earlier, a dog is the best companion who is a great listener and is always by your side.
This helps a kid learn to improve sibling and friendship bonds.
They transfer the love they have for their pets to other people around them.
Their self-confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of responsibility will also improve.
They Reduce Anxiety
Some dog breeds reduce anxiety in a child. When a child becomes anxious, a cuddle, or a playful interaction with the dog helps the child relax and calm down.
That happiness stimulates a hormone called oxytocin and soothes the anxiety system.
A child who is anxiety-free can perform any task because the mind is relaxed and able to perform how its meant to.
Do your research before adopting a dog, ensuring that the dog hasn’t had a violent or abusive history. Know about the breed and health history and how much work it’s going to take to keep the new pet healthy.
