artificial insemination syringe
It’s a lazy Sunday morning, and I finally have the chance to sleep in. As I lay in bed, cuddling with my family, I turn over and meet a pair of soulful brown eyes. “I love you so much,” I whisper. “You’re my sweet little buddy.” He may not respond, but I can feel the love radiating from him—after all, I’m his mom, and he’s my dog.
Anyone who knows me understands my obsession with Max, my Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, affectionately known as my Sweetie Wheatie. My partner and child adore him just as much. Max follows my son everywhere and curls up in his room at night; they even have their own little game where they run around together, hilariously dubbed the “Max go round.” They play, snuggle, and share a love for peanut butter. Max attends all of my child’s Little League games and makes friends effortlessly. He’s the furry sibling to my only child, and together, they are the most adorable duo.
When I decided to bring a dog into our home, I already had a full plate: raising a child, working, caring for an elderly cat, and juggling sports practices, camp schedules, and homework—plus tackling what feels like a mountain of laundry every week. Did I really want to take on the responsibility of another living being? Yet, I did, and I have no regrets. Dogs truly are a person’s best friend, especially for parents.
If you have children, I wholeheartedly believe you should consider adding a dog to your family. Of course, if you or anyone in your household has severe allergies to dogs or lives in a pet-restricted environment, I understand. But otherwise, keep reading.
Research from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry highlights numerous benefits of having pets for children. Pets can instill a sense of responsibility, teach respect for living beings, and provide a connection to the natural world. Let’s be real: goldfish don’t last long, birds aren’t cuddly, and turtles can carry bacteria (as my son loudly pointed out in a restaurant). While cats are undeniably cute, they’ve been known to destroy furniture and leave litter trails. Plus, I discovered I was allergic to cats after adopting two, which was a rude awakening.
With about 76 million dogs in the United States, they are the nation’s most beloved pet for good reason. Countless studies show that dogs can enhance happiness and promote better health. Family dogs sync with their kids, forging strong emotional bonds, and they can even bolster a child’s immune system. And let’s be honest—they’re incredibly cute.
Welcoming a dog into your family is a major commitment, but if you already have kids, you’ve taken on a significant responsibility. Yes, dogs can be costly—veterinary bills and grooming can add up—but you’ve likely already spent a small fortune on your child. Hiring a dog walker or sitter can be less expensive than daycare or nannies.
Having a dog isn’t just beneficial for kids; it’s also great for parents. A dog encourages the whole family to get outside and be active. You’ll receive unconditional love from a furry friend who won’t talk back, ask for an allowance, or negotiate for more screen time. Your dog won’t go to college or need privacy, so feel free to post endless pictures and share funny stories. While I can’t baby-talk my son, I definitely can with Max (he’s such a good boy!). And let’s be honest, you can always claim you need to take the dog out when chores come calling.
Sure, there will be moments when your dog watches you eat every meal, and if you work from home, expect some barking during conference calls. They might roll around in something unpleasant, and if you decide on a puppy, you may have to say goodbye to a favorite pair of shoes or a rug during the training phase. Your wallet might feel lighter, but your heart will be fuller, and your family will experience endless love.
Ultimately, the decision of when to welcome a dog into your home is yours. For us, it felt right when our child was six years old. When you’re ready, go ahead—get a dog. You and your children will be overjoyed.
If you’re interested in more insights, check out this related blog post for additional information. Also, for anyone considering their options, this site provides an excellent overview of pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
Bringing a dog into your family can enhance happiness, promote health, and teach children responsibility. With the right commitment and preparation, a dog can be a loving addition, creating joyful memories and a strong bond within your household.
Keyphrase: Should you get a dog for your family?
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