It's thrilling to bring a new puppy into the home, but what most new dog parents fail to take in is just how hard those first few months will be - especially if you already have young kids. Done right, however, that new pup can help your kids thrive. Dogs are excellent for children and the family as a whole. They are the perfect companions, amazing emotional supports, and can teach things like responsibility and collective care. In order for your new dog and your family to be as happy with the arrangement as possible, however, it's important to use these top tips:
Benefits of Dogs for Children
Dogs and children are a match made in heaven, especially if your kids are shy. Dogs are the perfect companion that can naturally teach children about responsibility and empathy just by being themselves. They can also help children develop social skills and confidence. As a bonus, some studies have found that dogs can even help improve your child's immune system and that kids who've grown up with a dog in the house are far less likely to develop issues like allergies and asthma.
How to Puppy-Proof Your Home
Before you bring a new dog into the house, it's important to puppy-proof your space. Puppies are curious creatures and will often explore their new surroundings with their mouths. It's important to clean up and remove any hazardous items off the floor, such as cleaning products, medicines, and sharp objects. Put away any items that your puppy could chew on, such as shoes or electrical cords. Consider using baby gates to block off certain areas of your home where your puppy shouldn't go.
Sign Them Up for a Great Vet
It's important to find a good veterinarian for your new puppy. Your vet will be able to provide regular check-ups, vaccinations and help with any health issues that may arise. Look for a vet that has experience with dogs and is conveniently located in your home. If that's in Des Moines, for example, then start by looking up the best vet in Des Moines, WA, and work your way down from there. Consider how many services the vet offers, how far away they are, and their costs. A great vet is worth traveling a bit further for, so keep that in mind when you're looking for a go-to vet professional for your new dog.
Split Dog Caring and Training Duties Throughout the Household
Taking care of a puppy and training them is a significant task that requires the involvement of every member of the household. To ensure that the workload is distributed evenly, it is advisable to divide the responsibilities, such as feeding, walking, and training. Assigning specific duties to each family member will also guarantee consistency in the care and training of the puppy. Done right, this tip can really help your kids learn compassion, and responsibility, even if they're given relatively easy jobs like making sure the dog's water bowl is always filled.
