|
|
There are many benefits to the relationship between
puppies and children. The following article will provide tips that will
help make that relationship memorable and lasting.
Watchpoints: young children and puppies
Veterinarians often advise parents to wait until their children are
between 7 and 9 before having a puppy join the family. But this is not
always realistic and, with supervision, smaller children and puppies can
live happily together.
Supervision is important for many reasons. Toddlers may think that
puppies are toys that enjoy having their tails pulled, and puppies may
mistake toddlers for littermates, and be rougher with them as a result.
Children and puppies may decide it's a good idea to try each other's
food; because of this, it's important to keep dog food out of reach of
babies and toddlers. Some types of puppy food and treats could lodge in
a child's throat, and a baby or toddler might cause a puppy to be ill by
feeding him the wrong kinds of food, or too much food.
How puppies benefit children
As children become older they can take some of the responsibility for
the puppy's care, as long as an adult supervises. Many parents bring a
puppy into the family to teach their child responsibility. But it's
important to remember that children generally have short attention
spans, and that the parent is responsible for the puppy's care.
A puppy can teach a child many lessons. While learning about the
importance of brushing their puppy's teeth, for example, a child may
understand why it's important for them to brush their teeth and practice
proper grooming. Puppies love unconditionally and children who are
lonely, or have high demands placed on them, often find that a puppy
provides a non-judgmental friend and relieves stress. And, because
puppies communicate differently than humans, they teach children to be
aware of body language and non-verbal communication. This helps to
instill compassion and sensitivity in children.
© 2008 Mars,
Incorporated and its Affiliates. All Rights Reserved.
|
