All about dog for kids
Dog facts for kids! | National Geographic Kids
Ready to learn some paw-some dog facts? Then you’re in the right place! Join National Geographic Kids as we get the lowdown on our fur-tastic friends…
Dog facts!
1. Dogs are the most popular pet on the planet!
A third of ALL households around the world have a dog. These playful, friendly, loyal animals make great companions, but they can also be fierce and tough protectors, or intelligent helpers.
2. They evolved from a now-extinct species of wolf.
Dogs were the first animal domesticated (tamed) by humans, over 20,000 years ago! As they evolved from wolves, their skulls, teeth and paws shrank, and they became more docile and obedient.
FUN FACT!
Evidence from fossils suggests that five types of dog had evolved by the Bronze Age, around 4500BC. These were mastiffs, wolf-type dogs, dogs similar to greyhounds, pointing dogs and herding dogs. Bow wow!
3. They can learn over 100 words and gestures!
Dogs are thought to be as smart as two-year-old children (and much easier to train!), so many owners teach them commands and tricks.
4. Dog noses are at least 40x more sensitive than ours!
These clever canines have an incredible sense of smell – allowing them to follow scent trails days after they were left. Amazingly, bloodhounds‘ sense of smell is so spot on that it can be used as evidence in court!
FUN FACT!
Dogs also have fantastic hearing! They can detect high-pitched noises and spot sounds from much further away than humans can.
5. Many work as assistance dogs, helping humans!
Many dogs are trained to work as guide dogs, helping blind people get around safely. Others are assistance dogs , who keep their owners calm and safe, while some brave hounds are search and rescue dogs, who help human rescuers save people from danger.
WEIRD BUT TRUE!
Some working dogs are trained to use their super senses to sniff out explosives and illegal goods, or alert humans to potentially dangerous health issues. Wow!
6. They only sweat from their paws, and have to cool down by panting.
The sweat is much oilier than humans’, and it contains lots of chemicals that only other dogs can detect. Weirdly, it also makes many dog paws smell of cheesy crisps!
7. They can be right or left-pawed!
Like humans, most dogs have a dominant hand – or in their case, paw! To figure out which one it is, you can conduct a simple science experiment…
Watch a dog moving from standing still to walking forwards. Do they start walking with their left leg, or their right? Watch several times, noting down the starting leg each time, and see if there’s a pattern. Many dogs will often lead with the same leg – their dominant one!
8. The Ancient Egyptians saw dogs as god-like!
Ancient breeds like the Saluki lived in the lavish palaces of Egyptian royalty! The pampered pooches had their own servants, were decked out in jewelled collars, and ate only the finest meats.
WEIRD BUT TRUE!
Dead rulers were often buried with their doggy pals, as they believed the hounds would protect them from harm in the afterlife.
9. Dogs use body language to express their feelings.
From their ears to their eyebrows, shoulders, and tail, dogs often use signals and smells, rather than sound, to communicate! Their posture makes a big difference, too.
Next time you see a dog interacting with a person or other dog, pay close attention. Are they shrinking themselves down small, or standing up big and tall? What do you think they’re trying to say?
10. Owning a dog is a BIG responsibility!
Just like humans, dogs have feelings and needs, and they have to be taken care of properly. They need regular walking, healthy food, a clean, cosy place to sleep and lots and lots of love and affection! Make sure you and your family think carefully before you get a dog (or any pet!) to make sure you have the time and means to take one on.
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Dog Facts for Kids
German Shepherd
Siberian Huskies are pack animals that still enjoy some human companionship.
Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are domesticated mammals, not natural wild animals. They were originally bred from wolves. Dogs are sometimes called "canines," which comes from the Latin word for dog - canis. Sometimes people also use "dog" to describe other canids, such as wolves.
A baby dog is called a pup or puppy. A dog is called a puppy until it is about one year old. Domesticated dogs have been bred by humans for a long time and were probably the first animals to be domesticated. Domesticated dogs eat both meat and vegetables, often mixed together with other ingredients and sold in stores as dog food.
Today, some dogs are used as pets while others are used to help humans do their work. Dogs are popular pets because they are usually playful, friendly, and listen well to humans. Thirty million dogs in the United States are registered as pets. Dogs are sometimes referred to as "man's best friend" because they are kept as domestic pets and are usually loyal and like being around humans. Dogs often have jobs, including police dogs, army dogs, service dogs, fire dogs, messenger dogs, hunting dogs, herding dogs, or rescue dogs.
Contents
- Appearance and behavior
- Origin of dogs
- Lifespan
- Dogs and humans
- As pets
- Best dogs for kids
- As pets
- Dog breeds
- 10 interesting facts about dogs
- Images for kids
Appearance and behavior
Dogs have four legs and make a "bark," "woof," or "arf" sound. Different kinds of dogs have different kinds of fur. Dogs often chase cats, and most dogs will fetch a ball or stick.
Dogs can smell and hear better than humans, but cannot see well in color. Their eye structure helps dogs to see better in dim light than humans can. They can also see further around before moving their eyes than a human can.
Like wolves, wild dogs travel in groups called packs. Packs of dogs are ordered by rank, and dogs with low rank will submit to other dogs with a higher rank. The highest-ranked dog is called the alpha male. Each dog in a pack helps and cares for others. Domesticated dogs often view their owner as the alpha male.
Origin of dogs
Montage showing the morphological variation of the dog.
All dogs are descended from wolves, by domestication and artificial selection. This is known because DNA genome analysis has been done to discover this. Dogs have been bred by humans.
The earliest known fossil of a domestic dog is said to be from 31,700 years ago in Belgium. Scientists believe that dogs have lived with people for at least 30,000 years. In 2013, a study was published that showed that the skull and teeth of a canid, dated to 33,000 years ago, had characteristics closer to a dog than to a wolf, and the authors determined that "this specimen may represent a dog in the very early stages of domestication."
Another sign of domestication is that sometimes, dogs were buried together with humans. Evidence of this is a tomb in Bonn, where the remains of a man of about 50 years of age, a woman of about 25 years of age, a dog, and other artifacts were found. Radiocarbon dating showed that the human bones were between 13,300 and 14,000 years old.
Lifespan
Different dog breeds (kinds) have different lifespans. In general, smaller dogs live longer than larger dogs. The size and the breed of the dog change the average lifespan of a dog. Breeds such as the Dachshund usually live for fifteen years, while Chihuahuas can reach age twenty. The Great Dane, on the other hand, has an average lifespan of six to eight years; some Great Danes have lived for ten years.
Dogs and humans
Dogs are often called "man's best friend" because they fit well with human life. Dogs can serve people in many ways. For example, there are guard dogs, hunting dogs, herding dogs, guide dogs for blind people (along with other service dogs), and police dogs. These dogs sometimes help police in airports or other areas. Sniffer dogs (usually beagles) are sometimes trained for this job. Dogs were sent by Russians into outer space a few years before any human being was sent. The first dog sent up was named Laika, but she died within a few hours.
As pets
Boy holding his pet Jack Russell Terrier
A British Bulldog relaxes at a park
It is estimated that three-quarters of the world's dog population lives in the developing world as feral, village, or community dogs. Dogs are not usually pets in these areas.
Pet dog populations grew after World War II. In the 1950s and 1960s, dogs were kept outside more often than they tend to be today and were still used as guard dogs, children's playmates, or walking companions.
Most modern dog owners describe their pets as part of the family. It is estimated there are 77.5 million people with pet dogs in the United States.
A 2014 study using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) comparing humans and dogs showed that dogs have the same response to voices and use the same parts of the brain as humans do. This gives dogs the ability to recognize emotional human sounds, making them friendly social pets to humans.
Best dogs for kids
Little boy with his pet dog
The best dogs for kids are ones that have calm personalities and are happy to socialize with everyone in the family.
Having a family dog can also teach children cooperation and responsibility. For example, a child can help with chores such as walking, feeding, and brushing the dog.
Here are some of the most popular dog breeds for kids:
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Cavoodle
- Cockapoo
- Labrador Retriever
- Schnauzer
- Pug
- Golden Retriever
- Bulldog
- Poodle
- Beagle
Dog breeds
Dogs are bred into very different breeds: here a Great Dane and a small Chihuahua.
- See also List of dog breeds.
There are at least 800 breeds (kinds) of dogs. Dogs whose parents were the same breed will also be that breed: these dogs are called purebred or pure pedigree dogs. Dogs with parents from different breeds no longer belong to one breed: they are called mutts, mixed-breed dogs, hybrids, or mongrels. Some of the most popular breeds are sheepdogs, collies, poodles, and retrievers. It is becoming popular to breed two different breeds of dogs together and call the new dog's breed a name that is a mixture of the parents' breeds' two names. A puppy with a poodle and a pomeranian as parents might be called a Pomapoo. These kinds of dogs, instead of being called mutts, are known as designer dog breeds. These dogs are normally used for prize shows and designer shows. They can also be guide dogs.
10 interesting facts about dogs
White newborn Dalmatian puppies are born without spots. They will get their spots 3 to 4 weeks after they are born.
- There are hundreds of different breeds of dogs and around 400 million dogs in the world.
- The dog has earned the nickname “man’s best friend.”
- The largest breed of dog in the world is the Irish wolfhound. The smallest dog breed is the Chihuahua (dog).
- The oldest dog who ever lived was a cattle dog from Australia named Bluey who lived to be 29 years and 5 months old.
- A dog’s nose print is unique; it is similar to human fingerprints in that no two are the same.
- Dalmatian puppies are born completely white and develop their spots as they grow.
- Dogs dream just like humans do.
- Little dogs are often called toy dogs, or lap dogs – because they’re so little they look like a toy and can easily fit on your lap.
- A dog is as smart as a 2-year-old child and can recognize around 150 words and gestures.
- Dogs should not eat raisins, grapes, onion, chocolate, or garlic because it makes them sick.
Images for kids
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Location of a dog's carnassials; the inside of the 4th upper premolar aligns with the outside of the 1st lower molar, working like scissor blades
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Dog breeds show a range of phenotypic variation.
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A lateral view of a dog skeleton
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Dogs display wide variations in coat type, density, length, color, and composition.
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A female dog is nursing newborn puppies.
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A Golden Retriever is gnawing on a pig's foot.
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Cerberus, with the gluttons in Dante's Third Circle of Hell. William Blake.
All content from Kiddle encyclopedia articles (including the article images and facts) can be freely used under Attribution-ShareAlike license, unless stated otherwise. Cite this article:
Dog Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.
Dog for children - the best dog breeds for a child
A dog is a true friend for a child, ready to diversify life and give unconditional love. Pet care builds responsibility and teaches children discipline, and in the process of training a puppy, the child sets a goal and strives to achieve it. In this article, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the breeds that are suitable for living together with children.
Things to consider before buying a dog
Acquiring a pet is a responsible step that all family members should be ready for. Get together for a family council and talk about what will change in your life if a dog comes home. Assess your capabilities, a pet is not a toy, he will need to devote time for many years. nine0007 What questions should be discussed :
- If a child asks for a dog, parents should understand that most of the worries will fall on their shoulders. Due to age and lack of experience, children do not fully understand how to properly care for a little friend. For example, you can't skip a walk if you don't feel like going outside, or don't feed your pet because you're addicted to playing on the computer.
- Is there enough money for maintenance. In addition to the regular purchase of food, you need accessories for walking, relaxing, and playing. Funds will also be needed for appointments with a veterinarian and, if the breed requires, services in a grooming salon. If the plans include participation in exhibitions and competitions, this is a need for even greater investment of funds. nine0014
- Are all family members ready for a puppy? Distribute responsibilities and enlist the support of each other, that everyone will take care of the pet based on their capabilities. Entrust your child with feasible tasks, given his age and the breed of the dog.
- When you choose a breed, carefully read all its characteristics, study the features of behavior, habits, instincts, what kind of care it needs. The amount of time that will need to be regularly spent on a pet also depends on this. The ability to train and train also greatly affects temporary resources, make sure you have them. nine0014
- Estimate the size of your home. Is there enough space for the whole family if a large dog also lives in the apartment. If a cat and other pets live at home, carefully approach the choice of breed. Not all dogs tolerate such a neighborhood, and hunting breeds often see small animals as prey.
- If the child is allergic, this is not a reason to abandon the pet. There are breeds that practically do not shed and have no smell, which allows us to consider them conditionally hypoallergenic. Some studies show a reduced risk of developing allergic asthma in children exposed to dogs from early childhood. nine0014
- To buy a puppy, choose a kennel with a good reputation. Professional breeders carefully monitor the purity of the breed, timely vaccination and do not allow individuals with health problems to be bred. Together with the puppy, you will be given a package of documents: a veterinary passport, a metric, a stamp registration.
The choice of breed also depends on the purpose for which you want to get a dog. Will it be a friend and faithful companion, a participant in exhibitions or a future champion of sports. nine0003
At what age should a child get a dog
Animals in the house teach the child responsibility and give a lot of positive emotions. The dog has a positive effect on mental development and helps to adapt to the world around. There is no exact recommendation at what age it is recommended to purchase a pet. Each age category has its own characteristics, we will analyze them in more detail:0008
At this age, the desire to buy a dog can only come from adults, for example, when parents get a puppy as a friend with whom the baby will grow up. From the moment of birth to a year, caring for a child takes up too many resources, so you need to clearly assess the possibilities in order to raise a puppy as well. At this age, it is important to ensure that the dog does not accidentally injure the child.
- Early age (1-3)
At the age of one, the child begins to walk and comprehend the world around him, and from the age of two, children are purposefully introduced to animals according to the development program. The kid is not yet able to learn all the rules of careful handling of the dog. Make sure that the child does not pull the tail or ears, otherwise curiosity can lead to aggression from the pet.
In the third year of life, a child is able to show humane feelings towards animals and treat dogs kindly. Children at this age should understand how to deal with a living being. Do not leave a child alone with a dog, especially with a large breed. nine0003
- Preschool age (3-7)
In preschool childhood, play takes up a lot of space in a child's life, so a four-legged partner will definitely not be superfluous. Outdoor walks, ball exercises and sports games will bring a lot of positive emotions. By the age of five, children can be introduced to some dog care duties, such as putting food in a bowl or picking up her toys. Communication with a pet should take place in the presence of adults. nine0003
- Primary school age (7-11)
Most often it is during this period that children have a clear desire to get a dog. Moreover, younger students are quite consciously ready to take care of a pet and take a responsible approach to their duties. If the child asks for a dog, explain that a pet is not only fun games and entertaining training, it is also toilet training and daily walks. In any case, the adult continues to control and take a direct part in the care of the dog. nine0003
- Adolescence (11-15)
Teenagers can become full-fledged dog owners: feed, walk, attend training classes. In addition, the child himself can choose the breed and evaluate his ability to care for the pet. Support your teenager's autonomy and provide assistance as needed.
Which breeds of dogs are suitable for children
First of all, these dogs include breeds with a calm character and a balanced nervous system. The pet should be friendly to children and, despite their age, not try to dominate. nine0003
Among the breeds for babies, those who will allow them any pranks and will not show aggression are suitable. For seniors - active breeds with which you can spend a lot of time playing and training.
We offer you to get acquainted with the features of breeds of different sizes that you can safely start in a family with a child.
Small size breeds
- Boston Terrier is a dog with an accommodating nature, which is satisfied with any activity that takes place in the house. He treats all family members kindly, joins children's games with pleasure, but at the same time behaves delicately and politely. nine0014
They are easy to take care of, short hair is enough to periodically brush with a special mitt. They like to frolic and play with the ball while walking. Boston Terriers can't resist the urge to pee for long, so you need to be prepared for puddles on the floor.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are always in a good mood. They get along with all pets and do not try to dominate. They need the attention of a person, it is better not to leave them alone. nine0014
Representatives of the breed love tactile contact, so they really like the company of children. Pets need to be constantly stroked, scratched, ruffled, they rejoice even in the strong hugs of babies.
- The Cairn Terrier is the perfect companion for outdoor play, ready to race and retrieve balls with the kids. At the same time, he does not like it when someone encroaches on his personal belongings, it is better to warn the child about this in advance.
The dog belongs to a hunting breed that needs long walks and exercise. Cairn Terriers love to dig holes for rodents and chase cats. They require a lot of attention to hair care. They do not shed, therefore, to remove the fallen hairs, it is necessary to resort to the trimming procedure.
- French Bulldogs have a docile nature and are equally friendly to all family members. Such dogs need constant contact with the owner, and at a young age they also need outdoor games, so they quickly find a common language with children. nine0014
Pets are not too whimsical in care. It is enough to comb them a couple of times a week, they do not need long walks. It is better for kids not to start such a breed, the French bulldog can react aggressively to careless handling.
- Bichon Frize is a mischievous pet, does not like to sit still. Energetic dogs are ready to frolic and communicate all day long, so they will become an excellent partner in games for the child. Due to their cute appearance and affectionate nature, they are attracted to canis therapy. nine0014
The white coat is brushed every day to keep it fluffy. Bichons have difficulty learning to toilet outside, sometimes it becomes easier to teach them to pee on a diaper at home.
- Pug is a loving pet that needs constant attention. With age, pugs become less active, but the desire to be near the owner does not go away, so they will always be happy with the company of children.
It is not recommended to start with babies, who can accidentally injure their bulging eyes. In addition, pugs snore a lot, which can break the silence in the house. Representatives of the breed are suitable for those who get a pet for the first time. nine0003
- Jack Russell Terrier - suitable for older children: not the type to tolerate neglect and excessive affection. Generally benevolent, but it requires the upbringing of an experienced owner. He does not like loneliness, for an active lifestyle and daily stress during long walks.
This is a bright representative of hunting dogs with a developed intellect and wayward character. Jack Russell Terrier will become a good friend to a teenager, with whom they will spend a lot of time and practice new commands. nine0003
- The Continental Toy Spaniel (Papillon) is a real extrovert who always has a good mood and a positive outlook on the world. Ready for constant communication and craves the same feedback from the owner. His over-energy can be put to good use in dog competition.
He treats children kindly, but does not tolerate rudeness and pressure at all. Therefore, the papillon is recommended to have a child who is able to realize this. nine0003
- The Yorkshire Terrier is a wonderful companion for children and teenagers, ready to join in the pranks and play at any time. But for a baby it is better not to start it, fragile representatives of the breed are easy to injure.
Yorkies become attached to the owner, from whom they expect constant attention and mutual feelings. The breed is decorative, its appearance needs to be given a lot of time. In addition to combing and bathing, haircuts in the grooming salon are required.
- Maltese — loves to be in the spotlight, so it often gets in the way where all family members are. In general, the Maltese are peaceful and prefer constant communication, but they will not tolerate a tactless attitude. Therefore, a pet of this breed should be taken with older children.
Maltese lapdogs are easy to care for, but training is more difficult. Stubbornness prevents them from learning, besides, they have no obvious desire to study. nine0003
Medium-sized breeds
- Poodle is one of the smartest dogs. Such pets have a docile nature, so obedience problems usually do not arise. In addition, poodles are very friendly. All these characteristics make it an excellent friend and partner for children of any age.
The breed needs long walks with the opportunity to frolic. Systematic combing and cutting is required, wool allows you to create different hairstyles for your pet. nine0003
- Beagle - suitable for school age children. The pet will become a true friend to the child, with whom they will explore the world around them together and frolic on walks. They treat all people good-naturedly, so the guard will definitely not come out of this breed.
If the natural instinct of the hunter is not used, the best option for the beagle will be participation in sports and regular trips to nature. For this, the puppy will need socialization.
- Huskies are friendly to people of all ages. They have a good-natured character, they are devoted, loyal and very smart. However, they need early socialization and training by an experienced dog breeder. Huskies are stubborn and sometimes strive to be a leader.
Huskies are best purchased when there is a teenager in the family. Young dogs are overly active and can be destructive, which is not safe for young children. The pet needs long walks.
- Basenji is also worth getting for an older child, with whom they will spend time on walks and organize active games. The breed is not suitable for kids, pets do not like excessive hugs and disrespectful attitude.
Such dogs need competent socialization, they cannot do without a leash for a walk - the hunting instinct is too pronounced. But the houses are quiet.
- Mini Bull Terrier - has little in common with its closest relatives (standard bull terriers), they are not characterized by aggression at all. Mini Bulls are friendly to all people and are very fond of children.
Representatives of the breed cannot stand loneliness and love to spend time in entertainment: for the sake of outdoor games, they are ready to make any concessions. They are unpretentious in care and maintenance, but you can’t do without walking with loads.
- English Bulldog - has an unflappable personality and is quite lazy. Sometimes it is the pet that has to be forced to go for a walk. The breed is suitable for a quiet measured life with small children.
The English Bulldog is patient with all expressions of love in the form of hugs. But you will have to take care of such a pet no less than a child - he has vulnerable health.
- The Border Collie is considered one of the smartest breeds. With proper training, they are able to perform not only a standard set of commands. They quickly master complex commands, as a result of which they often become winners of competitions for dogs, for example, in agility. nine0014
The pet takes care of small children, showing the instinct of a shepherd, but for a teenager, a border collie can be an excellent partner for participating in sports and other activities.
Large breeds
- Labrador - in the past accompanied the owner on the hunt, which is important to consider in the process of his socialization. It is easy to learn and with proper training becomes a devoted pet for the whole family. Able to work as a lifeguard and as a guide dog. nine0014
Calm dogs with a light and friendly disposition suitable for children of all ages. They play with pleasure and bring balls - this type of activity satisfies their hunting instinct.
- The Golden Retriever is one of the most intelligent and good-natured breeds that will become the best friend of all family members, including children. He has hunting roots, so he loves outdoor games and walks in nature.
Perfect for an active family who loves to travel. The Golden Retriever is happy to take part in any adventure together. nine0003
- Newfoundland is a good-natured dog who cannot imagine his life without communication with a person. She copes well with the role of a nanny: she protects children and steadfastly withstands not too delicate treatment of babies.
With age, dogs become less active, but the love of water remains with them for life. Newfoundlands need to be constantly combed, it is better to keep them in a country house.
- St. Bernard - has a peaceful and calm character, but the pet needs early socialization and a competent course of study. Representatives of the breed love all family members, including children.
The size of these dogs is huge, without proper education, the behavior of a pet can be destructive to the apartment. The rest of the breed is absolutely harmless.
- Collie (Scottish Sheepdog) is the perfect companion for walks, which are a must for these dogs in any weather. The collie is equally warm to all family members, loves communication, but will not impose it. nine0002 Representatives of the breed cope well with the role of a nanny for small children, but under the strict guidance of an adult. It is better suited for those who are older to share outdoor games with them.
- The German Shepherd is a versatile breed capable of serving as a guard or detective dog. In addition to service functions, it is also suitable for the role of a family pet, which will give a lot of positive emotions to children of any age. nine0002 Dogs have a balanced psyche, they are smart and obedient. German Shepherds are easy to train, so in addition to games, the child can teach the pet new commands.
- The Moscow Guard Dog is a good protector for the family and home territory. Best of all, a country house is suitable for a pet of this size, where he can show his abilities as a guard.
Well-bred dogs in the house behave with restraint and calmness, are easy-going, always ready to join the games with children. The tricks of the kids are treated patiently, not against the neighborhood with other pets. nine0003
Which dog breeds are suitable for children with allergies
Allergy symptoms appear when an allergic person comes into contact with a certain allergen and at a certain concentration of it. As for dogs specifically, pet hair is considered a common cause of an allergic reaction to them.
The body of dogs, like other animals, secretes irritant proteins that are contained in saliva, skin, gland secretions and other secretions. These are the allergens that settle on the wool. Therefore, regardless of the quantity and quality of wool on a dog, it releases allergens. In this regard, there are no allergenic dog breeds. In addition, a pet can bring other irritants to wool from the street, such as pollen from flowering plants. Therefore, wool is considered the main enemy of an allergic person. nine0003
But there is a so-called allergenic threshold - only when it is exceeded do allergy symptoms appear. Therefore, if the child does not have an acute allergy and the attending physician does not contraindicate keeping a dog in the house, then under certain conditions keeping a dog is quite possible.
In order to reduce the amount of dog allergen in the room where the allergic child lives, there are a number of measures: washing the pet, cleaning the room, installing special air filters, reducing the time the dog stays in the children's bedroom. It is also recommended to give preference to those breeds of dogs that practically do not shed. This is due to the peculiarities of the structure of wool or its absence. It turns out that allergens spread less around the house, without provoking an allergic reaction. nine0003
Conditionally hypoallergenic breeds include: Basenji, Hungarian Shepherd Dog (Komondor), Maltese, Hairless Chinese Crested Dog, Italian Greyhound, Samoyed Laika, Bichon Frize, American Hairless Terrier, Shih Tzu, Zwergschnauzer 9.
If you suspect that your child has an allergy, it is recommended to consult an allergist.
A dog in the house has a positive effect on the development of the child. In addition, daily walking can become a great family tradition. Walking in the fresh air is required not only for the dog, but also beneficial for the health of all family members. nine0003
Most importantly, evaluate your capabilities and treat with understanding that the main part of the worries will fall on the shoulders of an adult. Dogs require daily care, including hygiene and feeding.
Nutrition should be approached with special attention, because the pet's health directly depends on it. It is important that the diet is balanced and takes into account all the characteristics of a particular dog. These diets include PRO PLAN® dog food, presented in a wide range. It is a good choice for owners as the food is made from natural ingredients and already contains all the necessary nutrients to keep your pet healthy throughout life. nine0003
Dog breeds for children. The best breeds for a child and current advice
As you know, children, when they reach a certain age, begin to ask their parents for a pet, mostly a cat or a dog. Today we will figure out whether it is worth going on about the child, or is it better to refuse, what breeds of dogs are the most suitable for children, and so on.
1. Advantages of purchasing a pet
In general, there are a lot of advantages, for example
- According to most psychologists, children who have pets at home begin to think about the consequences of their actions much earlier, and they also begin to develop a sense of responsibility in general earlier. And this is a rather necessary quality of life, which may not develop fully if the child plays all his time only with dolls and plush toys or spends whole days on the Internet
- the dog plays a kind of socializer. Due to the fact that it is necessary to walk and spend time with her, the child becomes less closed, more relaxed and sociable. In addition, children who have dogs quite often become the center of the company, which allows you to quickly and easily make new acquaintances
- also, focusing on a number of experiments conducted by German psychologists, the presence of a dog in the house has a positive effect on the process of raising a child. He will know firsthand about such important qualities as devotion, honesty, the ability to forgive. As a rule, such children experience boundless love for everything around them, they are tolerant of other people's shortcomings, and meanness is completely absent in them.
- Another important point is that by buying a dog for your child, you provide him with a true friend for many years to come. The child will always have support, and no matter how funny it may sound, the dog will always console and listen to his little master. nine0014
- and not a single gadget and the vastness of the Internet will replace the child's communication and time spent with a four-legged friend.
2. Suitable age for purchase
The best age to buy a pet is when a child is 6-7 years old. Why? Well, firstly, if you buy a dog for a kid, he will essentially perceive it as a toy, nothing more, which can lead to the fact that the child will not even understand how to properly behave towards him. And all responsibility and care will be on the shoulders of the parents and the goal will not be achieved. nine0003
But after reaching the above age, children, as a rule, can already take part in caring for an animal, for example, feed it, take care of it at home, communicate and play, but as with a living being, not a toy. It is not recommended for children of this age to go out with a pet on their own, because if the dog is interested in something, it will tear the leash and most likely run away.
3. The best dog breeds for children
If we talk about the age of 6-7 years, then it is recommended to acquire small dogs, there is an opinion that their characters are less conflicting and difficult. But when a child reaches the age of 12-13, you can think about a pet of a larger breed. The seriousness of the approach to raising a dog also plays a role here; small children, due to their age, will not be able to cope with this task. nine0003
Another important point is that the pet must not be larger than a child. What is it connected with? As mentioned above, he may not keep the dog on a leash if he starts to break free and run somewhere. Or speaking of games, a large pet may inadvertently injure him.
Note: however, small breed dogs are not always ideal. This is due to the fact that children are mostly rude, they like to grab, hold, and so on, which animals and dogs in particular do not like at all. But if a child cannot master a large animal, then he will easily twist a small dog. nine0003
Among the breeds that react especially aggressively to such "captures" are:
- Pikinese;
- Pomeranian;
- chihuahua;
- miniature pinschers.
As a rule, they react violently to such “boorish” behavior, they start to break free, growl and, if the “offensive” is not stopped, they can bite the child.
Another disadvantage of acquiring small dogs is their smallness and fragility, and along with the fact that the child can be rude and perceive the pet as a toy, this can lead to injuries and other unpleasant consequences for the dog, while how large pets can tolerate a little if the situation requires it. nine0003
4. On which breed to stop your choice of
so what is still a more suitable option for purchasing for children, small dog breeds or large ones?
Let's get acquainted with some of them. Everyone can be involved in education, training, as well as during hygiene procedures and other things.
Welsh Corgi
This breed of dog is endowed with an innate sense of humor. He loves a variety of games and fun, which he can indulge in all day long. Also, these dogs know how to smile. It is not known how true this is, but the fact that they have a smile around their mouth in the form of a black rim is for sure. Moreover, these dogs are very quiet and patient. What is not ideal for a child.
West Highland White Terrier
Quite noisy dogs and explorers are very fond of digging. However, they are very friendly and peaceful, and are always ready to attack in defense of their master, despite the fact that they are quite small in size. So the child will not be bored and at the same time relatively safe with such a pet. nine0003
Irish Setter
More suitable for children - fidgets, because she is quite energetic and always "for any kipish". The pet needs frequent walks with games and running, and they also like to be in nature. A very friendly breed, and with the right upbringing will be good-natured and obedient (as far as this breed can be in general). It is thanks to her character and sociability that she always gets along with children, to which they reciprocate.
Labrador Retriever
An unrealistically optimistic dog breed with a very high level of love for life and good nature. At the same time, despite the fact that she is very active, she behaves moderately calmly and affectionately in the family and at home, creating a calm and peaceful atmosphere around herself. She always needs company as she has a hard time being alone and feeling abandoned. Labradors are ready to be friends with both children and adults, the main thing is that a person has good energy. The pet will suit both quite quiet and calm children, and energetic ones, who just let them play and run. nine0003
Poodle
Very good purchase. The dog is very hardy and strong. Can play and run for a very long time. In addition, it is practical, does not take up much space and does not shed, which allows you to start it in even a very small apartment. Ideal for children (especially allergy sufferers).
Bichon Frize
This is a French version of the lapdog. Enough active dogs that want to always be in the company of people. They do not shed and do not smell at all, but they bark quite loudly at everyone and everything. However, she is very kind and perfect for families with children. nine0003
In general, there are a lot of breeds that are suitable for children, both among large and small ones. Here, rather, the character of the pet and its ability and desire to contact the child play a more important role.
Before buying a pet, it is recommended that a child get to know the various breeds very well in order to study all their qualities, features, methods of training, care and other things. If you can’t make a decision on your own, you can seek help from specialists who will help you choose a dog that suits your child’s “type”. To date, there are a large number of online services that can conduct this kind of consultation, one of them is the online service vetonline.