Raising a dog and a child together can be messy and chaotic some days, but it's also a lot of fun. Studies have shown that children raised with pets are happier and healthier, getting sick far less often than children who lack pets. Growing up with a family dog has other benefits for children, as well.
Socialization and Exercise
Socialization and exercise may seem unlikely partners, but they are often done simultaneously by children with dogs. Kids who have a dog are more likely to be outside playing fetch or taking their puppy for walks. A dog's love of play encourages the same spark in children, leading to an average of 11 more active minutes a day. That may not sound like much, but it adds up to more than an hour a week of extra activity.
Socialization and Exercise
Socialization and exercise may seem unlikely partners, but they are often done simultaneously by children with dogs. Kids who have a dog are more likely to be outside playing fetch or taking their puppy for walks. A dog's love of play encourages the same spark in children, leading to an average of 11 more active minutes a day. That may not sound like much, but it adds up to more than an hour a week of extra activity.