Your Puppy and Your Child

When choosing a family pet, you will need to consider whether a male "or female - a dog or a bitch - is best for your family, especially if you have small children in the home. Male dogs tend to have a more "macho" outlook on life than bitches, and if that attracts you, the male of the species will be your choice.

Puppys are possibly more outgoing, certainly on average a little harder to train, but often more responsive once trained. On balance, if there is such a thing in this particular choice, the female is likely to make a better family pet.

She is less likely to be aggressive, although dominance is as much a breed characteristic's it is related to the sex of the dog. Bitches are much less likely to try to wander for most of the year, and they are inclined to be more loving to their human family.

Most people would agree that caring for animals is as educational for children as it is rewarding. Humans aren't born with the ability to relate well to other animals (remember watching your toddler trying to pull the fur right off your puppy?). Too many adults don't seem to realize the limitations of kids and pets when left alone together. To teach proper handling to youngsters, adults must first separate the old wives' tales from the facts.
Take babies, for instance.
Many families assume that aged animals are safe when left alone with babies. Adults don't realize that, potentially, this is one extremely dangerous situation. Without supervision, both can behave unpredictably, especially toddlers and babies, who enjoy grabbing, yanking, and pulling fur.

Dogs--who are often jealous of new infants to begin with--may not hesitate to fight back when handled roughly. Even if a solid relationship between baby and animals develops, the potential for injury always exists. The big teeth of a large dog and the tiny fingers of small child don't always mesh. But they can, if you make an effort to prepare your four-legged friend for your new arrival of the tiny two-legged variety.

Being sure the Puppy is around other children before the arrival of the baby also can be a good way to prepare him; that way he can start getting used to the prying little fingers of toddlers. One of the worst wives' tales ever propagated is that an animal-abusing child is simply "going through a phase." Studies have shown that children with a history of animal abuse often progress in this activity and perpetuate abuse to other children, adults, and even property as they grow up.

Make sure that you, the consenting adult, keep you eyes open to these scenes and discipline your children if you see abuse occurring. When you sit down to teach your children responsible pet care, explain carefully the idea of animal dependency. Many youngsters are oblivious to the degree of dependence that a dog has on them. Young people can learn best by assisting with feeding and other chores--not by tackling them alone. Finally, bear in mind that Puppys can live 10 to 15 years, and that during this time your kids will grow up and lead increasingly complex lives. You'll be left with aged Fluffy or Spot still needing a home after all your children are in school. .