Dogs and humans have had an unbreakable bond for centuries; dogs have earned the well-deserved name as man’s best friend. With hearts of gold and waggly happy tails, they can cheer up any gloomy Gus. As we’ve mentioned in our previous article, 6 Ideal Beginner Pets For Kids, dogs, can be pets of high maintenance. Because of unprepared, irresponsible owners, more dogs are abandoned and dumped onto the streets. A dog requires a good amount of attention, love, and care; certainty and preparation are vital before getting a dog, let alone any pet for that matter. Kids of any age and dogs are made for each other; they make outstanding pets and provide numerous benefits for your little one; and the entire family. We present to you why you should totally get your little one a pet dog! Now, before you head on over to the pet store and buy a dog, consider adopting a dog from a local shelter. Shelter dogs, from tiny puppies to wise aged doggos, are in need of a happy home, and we at Brilliant Tots are all in for ‘adopt, don’t shop.’ Bring your little one along to a local shelter and let them pick out a dog; or two.
Dogs Are Great Teachers
Responsibility
Figuratively speaking, of course, dogs can teach your little on the many great values of life; responsibility, compassion, and patience. Owning a pupper will give children a sense of what it is like to have a living, breathing creature rely on them; having to feed them, take them on walks, and clean up after them will help them learn the importance of bearing responsibility. Initial responsibility will develop into an initiative; your child will no longer look at caring for a pet as a chore but will want to willingly.
Patience
As high maintenance and playful animals, certain things they do can be frustrating. Destroying household items, bothering you when you’re fast asleep, and constant barking or howling are some prime things that dogs may do that can be somewhat irksome, but this will teach children a lifelong lesson on patience. It will teach children to restrain from yelling at or hitting the dog; some children may instinctively react in such ways. If this does take place, it is important to sit your child down and speak to them calmly, addressing the situation; explain how hitting or scolding a dog for something it cannot comprehend is wrong. Children are like mimes; they tend to follow and imitate what their parents do, so be sure that actions directed towards the dog are all in good heart. Training a pupper to sit and teaching them tricks can be frustrating as it takes endless repetition, but once they execute it, your child will feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
Unfortunately, dogs have relatively short lifespans, and your children are likely to witness a dog’s entire life cycle; the loss of a dog is an invaluable lesson, although that of a painful one – “He might only be here for a part of your life, but for him, you are his entire life” – Ankit Nayak.
Experience Unconditional Love
Dogs are a blessing to us, and nothing compares to the unconditional full-hearted love they give. Your child will get to experience a special kind of love as they grow and bond together. Dogs will fill your child’s world with a love that knows no selfishness, your child will recognize this powerful concept of pure love and will learn to love people unconditionally – ‘We don’t deserve dogs, their love is so pure’ – Rheiweu Kreoh.
Dogs Build Stronger Immune Systems
This may seem like a bit of a stretch, but it’s actually proven to be true! Studies have shown that children who have grown up with dogs tend to get sick far less than those without dogs. Another study revealed that newborn babies who are brought into a home that has a dog are less susceptible to colds or respiratory infections. Children who grow up with dogs are also less likely to develop food allergies and asthma. Exposure to dogs unveils ‘good’ germs and bacteria that a child’s system learns to fight against and, in turn, protecting the body and building immunity from other illnesses.
Dogs Are A Kid’s Best Friend
Making friends as a kid can be trying; not every child finds ease when it comes to making friends. Not having many friends or any friends can be burdening; this can lead to anxiety, stress, and loneliness. A dog can take that all away with slobbery kisses; they will be your little one’s best friend until the end.
Did You Know?
Scientists believe that the brain of a child and a dog are identical! No wonder they make the best of friends.
Dealing With Stress And Anxiety
No matter our age, we are faced with stress and anxiety, but coming home to a happy pupper can make things a lot better. Dogs offer comfort to your child. Playing with a dog or hugging them stimulates a ‘happy’ hormone known as oxytocin that calms the anxiety system down, decreasing the production of stress hormones known as Cortisol.
Dogs Help Develop A Higher Self-Esteem
If you notice your little one having a hard time breaking out of their shells, a dog can definitely help! Dogs help children with socialization; they gain confidence. A dog will see your child as the leader of its pack, and with this, your little one will pick up on this, boosting confidence and self-esteem. A child that has a strong attachment to their pet will also help your child be more open with other people, making them feel more comfortable with themselves while allowing them to be their true selves.
This world can be a harsh place, and it can sometimes bring us to our knees, but sometimes even the dimmest of lights is all we need to find ourselves and our way, through a tunnel of hope and back on our feet again – A dog is that light and the best thing that will ever happen in your life <3