Making memories with a four legged friend. Image via Pexels.
The saying that a dog is man’s best friend feels true to a lot of us dog lovers. But it might be even more accurate to say that a dog is an even better friend to a child, as they have so much to teach them. A beloved four legged friend can have a massive impact on a young life, and there is a reason that so many of us remember our childhood canine companions so fondly.
If you’re still struggling to decide, these ideas could help to tip the balance:
Your Children Will Get Sick Less
A powerful study from researchers in Finland recently showed a link in decreased rates of respiratory illnesses in babies who had lived with dogs during the first year of their lives. Dogs introduce a small amount of germs into the babies’ environment that helps to build up their resistance to airborne microbes. This has a halo effect on infant immune systems which can help them to grow up stronger.
A Dog Can Help With Reading Ability
It sounds strange admittedly, but a family dog can help with confidence issues in young readers. Children often feel self-conscious when learning to read and having to read aloud in classroom situations. Reading to the dog is a way to practise having an audience without feeling judged and can encourage them to take their time. It’s a confidence boost that can really help.
They Get More Exercise
How to get our kids moving outside and off their tablets and games consoles is a dilemma that many modern parents face, and having a family dog who needs walking can really help with that. Not only does it force you to get outdoors, which is hugely beneficial for mental wellbeing, but it can also get children involved with games involving balls and rope. It won’t seem like a chore if they’re playing with the dog.
It Teaches Responsibility
The basics of pet care are a great learning opportunity for children about taking responsibility for the welfare of a dog and cleaning up after it. It also shows them that actions have consequences – if they don’t control their dog and allow him to run in the mud, they have to clean up the dirty paw print and get out the dog shampoo! Getting children to help with that shiba inu shedding or puppy training accidents will teach them so much.
It Bonds The Family Together
Having a pet is great for bringing siblings and parents together. Sharing the joy and love but also the caring responsibilities of dog ownership is a special process. And all those walks mean time to spend together talking and bonding away from screens and other distractions.
A dog can do an awful lot to bring people closer and help create some amazing memories. Having a companion who has been with the family since the children were babies is an incredible positive influence in the lives of everyone involved.