A puppy is a lot of work, but at the same time, a puppy can bring enjoyment and love into a household. This is especially true if you have children. Your child may already be begging you for a puppy, but you need to ask yourself “What are the benefits of getting one for your children?”. A puppy is for their entire life. Not something you can palm off when the going gets tough. So your children need to understand this lifelong investment they are making.
If getting a dog is something you’re unable to decide on. Here are some good reasons why you should provide a forever home for a fur baby.
A puppy cab become your kids best friend
A dog can provide constant companionship for children, helping to prevent loneliness and depression. Whenever a child wants to play a dog is always going to be a willing play-buddy. If your kid’s human friends are busy or have gone away, a dog will be there to fill the void. They are a best friend when your kids are feeling angry, sad, nervous or stressed.
Maintain good health
Owning a dog is linked with good health. They need regular exercise, so someone has to take them for regular walks. Stimulation in the form of play, games, chasing and running is also important which means human interaction is necessary. A dog encourages physical activity in kids and regular walks with a dog is going to help them keep active.
There may be times when you’re unable to provide the stimulation and exercise a dog needs, but you don’t need to worry because dog walking services such as Premier Dog Walkers, can meet their needs if you’re busy at work or have other responsibilities. This can help lessen the stress of owning a dog.
Protector
Dogs are instinctively protective of those they love which means your child is protected against other children bullying them and from getting involved in fights. Dogs can also be trained to detect allergens that may be harmful to your children.
Develop skills
Spending time with a dog helps your child develop a range of different skills such as parental skills, reading skills, and creative skills. They can also help develop communication skills because when your child is out walking the dog, they’ll make new friends and interact with other pet owners.
Foster emotional development
Having a dog in the family helps your children to develop good emotional health. Being able to play with a dog that’s always happy and looking to have fun is an uplifting experience. Taking part in activities that revolve around a pet also helps to develop their self-confidence, self-esteem, a sense of commitment and responsibility.
Provide comfort
Children often feel anxious or worried and a dog can offer them comfort, without being judgemental. Enjoying a cuddle or playing with a dog stimulates a hormone called oxytocin, and this soothes the anxiety system.
When you first bring a puppy home there’s a lot of work involved in training it and ensuring it’s socialised properly. Your child can help with this and once your puppy is well trained growing up with a dog in the family is a lot of fun.
Do you have a family puppy?
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