The truth is dogs are more than just cuddly companions. They are loyal and protective animals that can keep you active all day long and make you smile with CleverPuppies.com
Out of everyone, children are probably the most excited about owning a dog. They like having that extra friend to have fun with around the house and engage in plenty of fun activities. On top of that, parents feel more relaxed knowing that their children are growing up with a cheerful animal that gives them unconditional love, devoted companionship and constant entertainment at all times.
However, from choosing the right breed to finding the best medical insurance for your dog companion, there are many aspects that must be considered when taking care of such a domesticated animal. So, to help you along the way, here are some useful tips you can follow that will help you choose the perfect pup for your children that will help them grow and develop.
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Choosing the right breed
Before you adopt your doggie, it is recommended that you do thorough research on which kind of dog breed will be the best for your family. In fact, a good way to start is to think about your living arrangement, your lifestyle, activity levels and budget to help you come to a decision easier.
For example, one of the most popular choices among families is the Labrador Retriever. They are such a lovely breed that get easily attached to both children and adults and make instant friends with whomever they meet. They are extremely active and playful, so if you are ready for some serious physical exercise every day, then a Labrador is the right choice for you.
If you are looking for a smaller-sized dog breed that is also great with children, then the Boston Terrier is a great option. They are very people-oriented and can easily adapt to living in an apartment setting.
How to care for your dog
After you have chosen your new family member, it is time that you get familiar with how to properly take care of them. This involves providing for both their physical and emotional needs in order for them to adjust nicely and live a happy and long life within your household.
The first most important thing you must do is find a reliable vet who will stay on top of your pup’s health at all times. In fact, by obtaining the best medical insurance for your dog you will be able to cover the cost for all regular wellness checkups as well as any other additional and accidental expenses that may come along.
Secondly, you must provide your pup with high-quality food. This includes plenty of fruits, vegetables and protein that are rich in nutrients in order to maintain their overall health. Also, don’t forget to give them lots of water to keep them hydrated especially after long hours of play.
Thirdly, grooming your dog is also a very important caring tip. This refers to frequently brushing them, taking care of their coat and trimming their nails to avoid the development of serious health conditions.
Lastly, make sure you provide them with lots of exercise. Take them on regular walks every day and engage them in many physical activities. For example, you can hide treats around the house and let them search for them or play fetch with a ball or a Frisbee in the park.
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Benefits for child development
Besides providing happiness, emotional support and constant entertainment to the whole family, owning a dog has also proven to be very beneficial for the proper growth and development of your children.
First off, taking care of a dog is considered a life lesson in responsibility. Teaching your children how to look after another living creature is an excellent way for them to learn one of the most important aspects of life. From feeding and walking to playing and bathing, there are all kinds of tasks your children could do for the household pet that will certainly help them later in life.
Secondly, living with a dog helps children enhance their immune system especially when they are very young. For example, according to a study published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics, exposure to dogs during the first year of life actually helps decrease the risk of developing respiratory asthma at the age of 6.
In addition to this, kids who grow up with family dogs have lower chances of suffering from skin conditions such as eczema.
Thirdly, by surrounding your children with a dog, you are giving them the opportunity to develop a great sense of empathy. Although pets bring lots of happiness and joy, there is also sadness and even loss at times. This can help them deal with grief which is unfortunately inevitable in life.
Lastly, having a dog means there is plenty of physical activity. When kids are young, all they are looking for is to have fun and what’s a better way to do that than with the family pet. Both children and dogs can engage in various activities, from playing fetch to simply running, there are many ways they can bond with each other. This will further help children with their social and emotional development in the long run.
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Final thoughts
Dogs are undoubtedly considered the best domesticated animals around which children can grow and develop properly. They are an excellent health booster and a great way to learn how to be responsible for another living creature. All you have to do is choose the best dog breed for your loved ones and follow the main steps to properly taking care of them.
In case you need help or a reminder of howowning a dog can be beneficial for the whole family, make sure you refer back to this post and use it as a guide to help you find the perfect pup to bring happiness and unconditional love to everyone in the household.