5 lessons kids learn growing up with dogs

When kids grow up with pet dogs, they learn many life lessons early on. A dog is a living being and a part of the family, so children learn essential skills, such as responsibility. Not only do dogs become beloved family members, but they are also great companions for kids who learn to play and socialize with the dog.

If you’ve been hesitant bringing in a new family member into the house, forget the worrying and keep reading to find out why having a dog is a benefit to your kids’ lives. Having a pet will teach them many new things, and kids will be happier because they have a constant companion.

1. Dogs teach kids responsibility

The biggest lesson a child learns when owning a pet dog is responsibility. Taking care of an animal is no easy task, especially for a young kid. That’s why parents should teach kids to do the work and show them that owning a dog is a daily commitment.

Kids learn to feed the dog, walk the dog, play with a dog, and more importantly, they learn things like picking up after the dog. Feeding your dog is a special bunding time. They lean what dogs can and cannot eat. (click here to learn more) This teaches them to be responsible pet owners from a young age and teaches them about keeping a space clean and being a responsible neighbor.

When your kids have a dog, they will learn that you can’t be lazy when it comes to the animal’s needs. They will learn that if they don’t take the dog out for a walk or to the yard, it will pee and poo in the house, making life more challenging because they will have to clean up.

2. Kids learn confidence

A child who has a dog as a companion can become more confident because they can practice many skills in front of the dog. For example, many children learn to read by reading stories to their pets. In most cases, children are nervous about reading and can experience anxiety if reading out loud. But, by reading to the dog, a non-judgmental being, the child can become more confident and feel less stress.

One important thing that the child must learn is controlling the dog, which teaches them to impulse control and conflict management. By having dogs at an early age, kids can learn to be the pack leaders and assert their control over their behavior. If they can successfully handle the animal, they are bound to feel more confident in their abilities.

3. The importance of physical exercise

Dogs require daily physical exercise, not just to do their needs but also to stimulate their bones and muscles. Therefore, your kid will have to take the animal on daily walks. As they do this, they are again staying fit and active.

A dog is great because it can participate in physical activities such as games, play, and sports. Your kids will love playing fetch and swimming with their pups. Many dog breeds love to run around and stay active and join their keepers on trips and outings, like camping or surfing.

If you have trouble getting your kid out of the house and away from those screens, you can involve the dog and make it a fun activity for all of you. This way, your children stay active and healthy. If your kid needs to do more running or walking, take the dog with you, and it will feel more like a fun activity than exercise.

4. How to socialize

If your child is shy and quiet, it could be a sign that they haven’t developed the proper social skills yet. Kids can safely practice their socializing skills around dogs because the pup doesn’t judge and listens to kids. You’ll often see lonely kids explaining things to their dog, which is a great coping mechanism.

For example, let me tell you that animal therapy helps children with Autism gain new skills and boost confidence. Animals put children at ease, creating a safe and comfortable zone. Parents note that their kid handles social outings much better if the dog is around.

Another benefit of owning a pet is that your child learns to act politely and be more friendly to people. As a child walks the dog around the neighborhood, they learn to greet neighbors, make small talk, and even spot dangerous situations. The more a kid is exposed to the outside world, the better the child can handle various social situations.

5. Dogs teach kids about love and friendship

Last but not least, owning a dog teaches kids about the power of love and friendship. Kids develop a very close bond with their pets and love them whole-heartedly. You’ll notice the child trying to protect the dog in situations where the animal does something naughty, like chew up slippers.

Besides, kids form tight friendships with the animal, and they talk to the dog and explain all their problems to the pet. This is an excellent way for children to cope with their feelings and process events in their lives.

Shy kids benefit a great deal from their dog’s friendship, as it helps them feel less alone, even if they struggle to make friends. When they feel loved, even by a pet, kids are happier and healthier.

The bottom line

There’s no doubt your child can benefit a lot from the companionship of a pet dog. Dogs teach kids invaluable lessons as they care for an animal while growing up. Not only do they learn about responsibility and caregiving, but the dogs become friends during those tough times and lovely companions to play. So, don’t be afraid to let a pup teach your kid special life lessons.

Puppy training 101: 7 tips to start your dog off right