Panic and fear were written all over her face, as the four year old screamed and jumped up on the couch. My husband and looked at each other in confusion. It never occurred to us that a child would be terrified of a small quiet sheltie. Our dog looked at us wagging his tail as confused as we were. Her parents were apologizing trying to explain their daughter's strange behavior. We vowed then to make sure that any child we had would never be afraid of pets. We truly believe that the most well balanced kids come from families with pets.
My husband and I both grew up surrounded by pets. We got our first dog together two months before our wedding. Fuzz is a great dog and he fell in love with our daughter when she was born. He would guard over her and kiss her feet. He always wanted her in his line of vision. He was tolerant of her pulling his tail and her squeezes. We taught her how to be more gentle and loving towards pets.
When our daughter turned two we added a German Shepherd puppy to our family. Our daughter's first friends were her dogs.
•Children have higher self esteem and more confidence in school because they receive unlimited affection and love at home from their dog.
•Dogs help teach kids about responsibility and how to take care of others.
•By teaching respect for animals and how to be gentle, kids will grow into caring adults.
•They are more likely to not be overweight since dogs encourage exercise and playfulness.
•Children raised in a house with dogs and cats from birth are less likely to develop allergies and asthma.
•Dogs help to reduce stress and are therapeutic for autistic children.
The best dogs for children must have a friendly, calm and tolerant temperament. These breeds include Collie, Maltese, Basset Hound, Sheltie, Poodle, Lab, Golden Retriever, Beagle, Boston Terrier, Cocker Spaniel, English Bulldog, and Wheaten Terrier.
No matter which breed you decide on, it is important that the first few years with your new pet that your children are always supervised around them. Teach your child how to respect dogs and to treat them well. This will allow for a deep bond to develop between your dog and child. Your dog will be loyal and welcome your child home with love and happiness to see them.
We love our dogs and can't imagine a life without them.
Amanda Smathers is the owner of http://www.babysnuginbed.com. Please visit http://www.babysnuginbed.com your friendly online store for all your baby and toddler gifting needs. Find quick easy recipes your toddler will love and fun parenting tips.
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