How to Pick a Dog for Your Child

So your son or daughter is at that age--that "I want a puppy" age. Well, I've been working in an animal shelter for more than three years, and I still cannot believe how many parents do not do their research before adopting a dog for their child. Day after day we must educate people that want to adopt, and we would never place a dog in a home that is not right for the family. There are certain breeds that are just not good with kids, and these dogs should not be considered if you are looking for a pet for your child to grow up with. Here are some important points to take into consideration when you are ready to choose a dog for your child.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access or a library card
• Enough extra money to take care of a dog's needs
• Reasonable work hours

1. Before you get a dog, think about "starting small." Small animals like guinea pigs, hamsters and rabbits make great first pets for your child. This is a terrific way to teach your child how to care, love and respect a pet before getting a dog that is a much bigger responsibility.

2. If you are confident that you are ready to welcome a dog into your home, begin your research. I have included links to get started. Take the "best dog for your personality test," and read the descriptions of each breed carefully. Pits and chihuahuas are not good for children, just to name a few. Tiny "accessory type" dogs are extremely fragile and should not be in a home with children to play with.

3. Use this breed information to narrow down your choices, but that doesn't mean that you have to buy that exact breed. Actually, there is no reason to buy a dog at all. There are thousands of dogs in shelters that need homes, and most people don't realize that many of them are pure breeds. Plus, pure bred dogs have numerous medical issues that mixed breeds don't. Health issues will cost you money and heartache.

4. If you're set on getting a pure breed dog, keep in mind that every single breed has a specific rescue, with locations everywhere. Look into those first. Do not buy a dog from a pet store. These are puppy mill dogs and will be sick. Find a great breeder, check their references and go to their home and see the environment that they are raised in.

5. Now, it is time to make the decision whether to get a puppy versus a dog that is a bit older. A puppy is great if you are a stay at home parent. You and your child can spend time together and learn how to train your new addition. A puppy needs constant attention, and generally has to go out every three hours. Are you ready for that commitment? Or would you prefer a one-year-old dog that is already trained?

6. Make several trips to the shelters, don't just take home the first dog you see. You and your child will know when you meet the "right" dog for your family.

7. Take your child to the shelters. Make sure that they meet and spend time with the dog before you bring the dog home. Your child should be a huge part of your choice. Even if your son or daughter is too young to give you their input, their body language alone will show whether they feel comfortable with their prospective new pet.

8. Keep an open mind. You'd be surprised, sometimes a dog that you don't like the "look" of, will win you over with it's stellar personality.

Tips & Warnings

• Take the time to make the decision to get a dog, it's a huge one.
• Let your child spend time with trusted dogs, before getting one.
• Crate train your dog, it's the best way to housebreak your dog tool (and it's not a cage.
• Make sure that you can afford the care of your dog.
• Do not get a dog based on it's appearance.
• Don't make a rash decision, even if it means waiting longer for the right dog.
• Never leave a very small child alone with any dog.

Resources

• Dog Breed Info Website