help to cope.

Dogs are well known for being a supportive presence in our lives, and the process of training and getting to know a puppy can bring some much-needed structure and certainty for children. Having a friend that they can see and interact with every day gives them stability, and can help you to bond with your child as you care for the puppy together.

therapy dogs.

Just stroking a dog is proven to lower blood pressure and reduce anxiety. Children who are struggling to manage their emotions and connect with others find it much easier to share with a dog and develop the ability to be calm and gentle. Not only that, but walking a dog can help to encourage exercise which, in turn, has fantastic benefits for both physical and emotional health. Therapy dogs are increasingly popular for use in hospital and even school settings, so training a dog to be a supportive friend for your child can only be great for their wellbeing.

breed matters.

Are your kids full of energy? Will they want to take your dog on lots of walks, and play all day? Or are they quieter and more likely to enjoy curling up with their new pal for a cuddle? Make sure that you consider the breed when deciding whether to get a puppy for your children. The perfect fit is essential for creating family harmony – and if you are intending on training your new puppy as a therapy dog, this is even more important.

for life.

Remember the old adage that a dog is for life, not just for Christmas? While times will change and your kids will grow up, bear in mind that you will most likely be left taking care of the dog – depending on the breed, this could be up to twenty years. It really is important to consider this when getting a dog for your kids.

embrace the change.

While getting a puppy is not something to rush into, they can be a wonderful addition to any family. You may find that bringing a puppy home for your kids is not just a benefit to them, but to you as well. Embrace this exciting change by bringing home a furry friend who will be your companion for years to come.