BY HEJIRA CONVERY, KINDICARE

JULY 20, 2022

Kids love dogs and dogs love kids, but there’s a bit more to pet ownership than that!  

A pooch is a big commitment at any age, and if you have a young child, it’s important to think carefully about how a doggy will fit in with your family.  

There are actually some very good reasons to get a dog (and we promise your preschooler didn’t pester us to say that!).   

Research suggests that pooches are positive for little people, and to learn more about the upsides – and what-ifs – of dog ownership, we spoke to Dr Keshuan Chow from the Australian Veterinary Association. 

Dr Chow has years of experience with all creatures great and small, and she can confirm that dog ownership has real benefits for young children. 

She says, “Apart from the obvious – that owning dogs can be a lot of fun! – there are health and psychological benefits, too.” 

For starters, “Walking and/or playing with a dog is a great way for kids to get some exercise” and live a healthier life.  

Even the most relaxed breeds can be tempted to take a lead or chase a stick, and recent research by the Telethon Kids’ Institute has found that young children (aged two to five) who, “Regularly walk and play with their family dog are more physically active, have less screen time, and sleep more.” 

There’s also evidence that being around a dog may help to ward off allergies and some infections. 

Dr Chow says, “Research suggests that children and babies exposed to dogs from an early age have reduced incidence of allergies, as well as ear and respiratory infections.”  

“The reason is not 100% known, but the theory is that exposure to microbes and pet dander helps to strengthen the still-developing immune system in young children.” 

Then, there are the psychological benefits. 

Dr Chow says, “Some studies have demonstrated positive correlations between owning pets and higher levels of self-esteem, increased social-emotional skills, reduced behavioural issues, reduced learning problems, and reduced stress.” 

“Pets can also teach children about responsibility, respect for living things, empathy, and provide a source of comfort and affection.” 

A family dog can quickly become a kid’s best friend, and because pooches live for years and years (fingers crossed), there’s a whole childhood in which to enjoy the benefits of dog ownership.  

However, before you rush out and adopt the first pup you find, it’s very important to make an informed dog decision! 

Every family is different, and you need to ensure that your family can provide the love, care, space and money that any prospective pooch needs.  

Dr Chow says, “Owning a dog is a huge responsibility,” and there are three key considerations before taking the plunge: 

1. Will you be able to look after a dog as they need to be looked after? 

As well as caring for their everyday needs, like feeding, walking, bathing and grooming, you also need to provide ‘enrichment.’  

This means giving them enough exercise, interactive play and environmental enrichment, like chew toys, puzzle feeders and outdoor time.   

Dr Chow says, “We all know that having young children is very time intensive, so families need to consider whether they can dedicate enough time to the care of a dog.” 

“Some breeds (for example, working dogs like Kelpies or Border Collies) require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, and it’s important that you have the time, space and resources before committing to owning one of these dogs.” 

2. Can you afford to own a dog? 

Dogs don’t come cheap, and you need to consider the up-front cost of buying a puppy or pooch (which can be hundreds or thousands of dollars, depending on the breed), and also think about the ongoing costs.  

Dr Chow says, “Some costs can be predicted, like the cost of vaccinations, parasite control, puppy school and ongoing behaviour training.”  

“However, there is always the chance that something unexpected might happen, such as an injury or illness, which can be costly.” 

There is no Medicare or Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme for pets, and vet bills can be high, because although vets don’t get paid as well as doctors, Dr Chow says, “Veterinary care often requires the same equipment and treatments as are used in human medicine.” 

This is why pet insurance is a very good idea, and Dr Chow says another option is to set up a separate bank account where you regularly put aside money to cover unexpected dog care costs.  

3. Are you able to provide constant, active supervision? 

This is vital if you have a baby, toddler or preschooler.   

Dr Chow explains that, “Children under five often lack impulse control. They can be unpredictable, which can lead to things like jumping on a dog or pulling on a pet’s fur, which can elicit a negative reaction.” 

You (or another responsible grown-up) must be able to supervise all the interactions your little one has with the dog to make sure everyone stays happy and healthy.  

Dr Chow says, “It is important that all dog owners, but especially those with young children, educate themselves on dog behaviour and body language cues. Puppy schools, which often are run in association with veterinary clinics, are a good start. And for ongoing tailored information, your veterinarian can recommend a reputable local dog trainer.” 

She explains that, “Most of the time when a dog bites, they’ve already given many subtler, escalating signals to show they’re uncomfortable. Sometimes these signs can be really subtle – like small eye movements, certain postures, small changes in ear position, and so on – and being able to recognise these signs early on is vital to avoid a bad encounter.”  

So, there you have it – dog ownership is a big deal, but it can also be a great one. 

If you’re ready, willing and able to welcome a fur ball into the family, many benefits come with them. 

And if you’re not in position to get a pooch, then maybe there’s a kid-loving dog in your extended family or friendships circle, who’s happy to get a pat and cuddle now and then!