Thinking of adding a dog to your family? We give you several reasons why it is beneficial to have a furry friend among us, especially if you have children.

A dog is an excellent companion for a child, a source of affection and learning and also, is very beneficial in the development of the child. According to research conducted by Oregon State University psychologists on preschool children, they found that teaching children how to care for a puppy, increases their social skills for the future.

However, it is important to know that pets also have a number of needs that cannot be neglected. All dogs require attention, affection and exercise.

What are the benefits of pet ownership for children?

  • Health benefits:

   - It reduces stress, which helps children to be less aggressive.

   - It improves self-esteem, they feel loved by their pet and, by fulfilling the obligation to feed, clean and care for them, we are creating a sense of usefulness and motivation within them.

   - Reduces anxiety, headaches and appetite disturbances.

   - It requires an increase in physical activity, it keeps the child away from sedentary lifestyles.

   - Regulates heart rate and blood pressure.

  • Socio-educational benefits:

   - A child walking a dog establishes new social relationships in the street by attracting the attention of other people.

   - Accelerates psychomotor development through play, exercise, chasing, laughter, etc.

   - It plays a protective role that it shares with the parents: it is not only mum and dad who love and care for me. The pet provides security when parents are absent.

   - They develop the value of responsibility, as pets invite children to imitate adults in their role as caregivers.

   - A relationship of mutual trust is created that promotes self-awareness.

   - It provides acceptance and love without prejudice.

A child's good relationship with a pet can be an excellent school for learning to love and be loved. A dog is a faithful partnera friend for life. Get your kids to go out and play at the outdoors with them, and also enjoy nature together.

The benefits of having a dog for children go beyond fun. It is a life companion, a friend and even like a brother. Are you up for it?