It’s almost a given that most children at some point will beg their parents for a puppy. Most children are very fascinated by dogs and usually fall in love with them very fast. However, aside from just being furry friends who they can pet every now and then, there are actually a lot of benefits for the child when they grow up alongside dogs

There are so many people who think of dogs as a liability that they need to spend money on and clean up after. That thought process couldn’t be further from the truth. While taking care of a dog is a little bit of work, the benefits of having a furry companion at home for a child vastly outnumber the ‘issues’ that people seem to see with having a dog. 

Here are some of the best reasons why children should grow up alongside dogs: 

Learning Responsibility 

Taking care of a dog is something that helps to instil a sense of responsibility in children from a very early age. Feeding, cleaning, walking and playing with the dog helps the child to understand what it is to be responsible for someone or something else apart from themselves. When children are taught to take care of the dog on their own, they learn responsibility from a very early age. 

Developing Emotional Intelligence 

On a very basic level, the act of caring for another living being helps a child to develop emotional intelligence from a very early age. Values like compassion, care and love can be introduced to children through the act of taking care of a dog. When children accomplish small tasks like feeding the dog, or filling the water bowl, they are also getting a boost of their self esteem. 

Having a Loyal Protector

Dogs are incredibly intelligent and sharp when it comes to protecting their owners. A dog will help to protect the child from bullies, fights and brawls with other children and in the odd chance that the child is attacked by another dog or animal, the presence of a protector in the shape of a dog is invaluable. Dogs can even be trained to detect and sniff out substances that are harmful for children. 

Helping to Overcome Behavioural Problems

Children with behavioural problems are encouraged to interact with dogs, as it helps them in so many ways. Overly aggressive or hyperactive kids can be calmed down by making them interact with and playing with dogs. Apart from this, dogs are ideal companions for children with special needs. Dogs are incredibly instinctive and know exactly when they have to be there for children who need them. 

Promoting Good Health

Regular walks and playtime with dogs help a child to stay active and healthy in a way that Is fun for them. Studies have shown the dog owners are always more active than people who don’t own dogs. When children have dogs, they tend to spend more time taking care of them as opposed to sitting in front of screens for extended periods. Fresh air and frequent exercise are a given when a child grows up with a dog.

A dog can become a child’s first best friend from a very early age. The amount of love and laughter that they introduce to a child is unparalleled. They can make a child more intelligent, compassionate and well-rounded as a person. A dog can be a compassionate friend, teacher, source of entertainment and protector. The value that a dog can add to a young child’s growing years is invaluable. So maybe it’s time for you to consider getting a furry friend for your child to grow up with!