Dogs go together with kids like peanut butter and jelly, hot cocoa and marshmallows, or dog slobber and furniture. If you thought just having a dog would melt your heart, when kids and dogs get together, the most endearing parts of having a pet are magnified. Similarly, your kid’s most entertaining qualities tend to come out when there’s a dog in the house. That being said, it’s important to teach your kids how to act responsibly around your pet. However, no matter what they get up to, two sets of puppy dog eyes are enough to disarm any annoyed or angry parent. As if you needed more reasons to experience a cute overload, here are the most amazing things that happen when kids and dogs are best friends.
They Teach Each Other
Even though they don’t understand our languages, dogs have an amazing way of knowing exactly what your kids need to see.
Someone To Run Around With
Since your little one has a friend to run around with, it’s easier for us adults to take a break from play time when you have a dog. Just be careful to always supervise young children and your dog together.
Adventures
Your older kids also have a new partner to take on adventures, allowing you more time to catch your breath.
Entertainment
Since little ones don’t get as easily bored with a wild “beast” in the house, keeping your kids busy on lazy days is less of a chore. Just remember to teach your children they should never hurt a dog or try to provoke them.
Goodnatured Teasing
Kids love to play games with dogs, but dog lovers know all too well that dogs like to play games with us too. Just make sure you always keep the games you play with your pup safe and free from tugging on their ears or tails. When you keep to these boundaries, both human and dog know it’s all in good fun.
Someone To Cuddle With When You’re Sick
Similarly, kids have someone to cuddle with when they’re sick, so everyone stays happy, but you stay healthy. Dog licks might just be what the doctor ordered.
Someone To Dig With
Just like supervised walks, little kids now have a digging buddy. This makes beach time a little more enjoyable for you, plus you can avoid going outside on snowy days.
Dog Love
As long as you teach your child to never pursue a dog for hugs, your pup will love sharing in gentle affection. Every kid is happier and less temperamental with constant doses of love from a dog.
Best Friend No Matter What
Dogs never judge us, which can make all the difference when your little one has had a bad day.
Partner In Crime
HavIng a dog as a child also means you have a partner in crime. Going outside to play is way more enjoyable when your play friend isn’t always telling you “no”.
Someone To Blame Things On
Having a partner in crime pays off in other ways too, as a dog is a convenient scapegoat when you’re a little kid. Even when the dog didn’t do it, it’s worth a shot. Though it’s obvious to you, to a child, it’s perfectly possible that the dog learned how to use finger paints.
Genuine Care
Even though kids like to blame their dog friends, if you’ve established a calm relationship, dogs will never take it personally. Dogs are too busy taking care of your little one to ever get angry.
Life Long Friends
As we grow, our pets become increasingly important. Tumultuous teen years and heartbreak make the genuine, loving relationship with your dog more vital than ever. No matter what happens, kids and dogs will always be best friends forever.
Featured photo credit: Boy Kissing Dog via shutterstock.com
