Are you searching for the perfect dog for your child? Whether you want a sedate
lap dog or an animal that will be a good watch dog and a perfect playmate, dogs
that fit those descriptions are readily available. Here is a list of suggestions
and information to help you choose the right dog for your child.
First, answer a few questions about your child: How old is he or she? Is your
child mature enough to hands the responsibilities of a dog? Will they be willing
to help feed and water the animal every day? What sort of dog is your child
hoping for? What type of personality does your child have? Is she shy and timid,
or rowdy and boisterous? Does your child understand that an animal should never
be teased? If you have determined that your child is ready for a dog, decide
what type of animal would work well within your family and start gathering
information about the breeds that interest you.
Here are some points to consider when shopping for a dog:
*Temperament
Like people, individual dogs have very different temperaments. Some of the
smaller breeds, though extremely popular, can be very nervous and don't make
suitable companions for younger children. With their nippy personalities and
penchant for barking, little dogs usually make better pets for older children.
Three of the smaller (toy) breeds that are readily available are Chihuahuas,
miniature poodles and Pomeranians. If your child has his heart set on one of the
‘toy' breeds, find someone who has this type of dog and let the child visit. Do
the dog and your child get along? If so, and if this is the dog of your child's
dreams, check your newspaper for breeder listings, or ask at pet stores and
veterinarian offices about the availability of puppies. Be aware that sometimes
there is a waiting list for these pups.
If your child is looking for a rough and tumble, very active dog, check out some
of the larger breeds. A few of the large breed dogs that make excellent
companions for children are Labradors, collies and setters. There are many other
large breed dogs that love children. Ask around to see what friends and vets
recommend.
With their intelligence and even, outgoing personalities, these big dogs are
always ready for fun! Since they are such active animals, you'll need to plan on
having a regular place for them to romp and play-- larger dogs aren't well
suited to apartment living. As with the smaller dogs mentioned above, you can
find breeder listings in newspapers, pet stores and vet offices. It's always a
good idea to find someone who owns one of these dogs so your child can get
acquainted and see if this is really the animal for them.
(Note: The above mentioned dogs are only a few of the diverse breeds out there!
Don't limit your choices to these few--ask for recommendations from other dog
owners.)
*Grooming
Will your child be willing to help groom the new dog? The long haired breeds
will require frequent brushing or combing. Regular grooming helps control
shedding, and goes a long way toward the prevention of mats or knots in the
coat. Bathing the dog regularly and maintaining flea control will be necessary,
especially if the animal will be staying indoors. If your child is too young to
handle heavy grooming responsibilities, you might want to consider one of the
many great dogs with short coats. The use of a slicker comb on these animals
keeps their coats glossy and the comb is easy for little hands to manage.
*Health Issues
If you will be getting a dog from a breeder or pet shop, visit the breeding
facilities. Make sure the puppies have been raised in a clean, healthy
environment, that all the appropriate shots have been given and that your puppy
has been wormed. Have a vet do a well-puppy check up before you spend money on
an expensive breed. Get references from others who have bought dogs from the
particular breeder you're interested in. By checking things out beforehand, you
will be better able to avoid ending up with a sick dog, or one that is
unsuitable for your family.
*Animal Shelter Dogs
When you start shopping for a dog, don't overlook the local animal shelter.
It's not unusual to find registered animals available for adoption. For a
fraction of the cost of a registered dog, you can adopt a beautiful, full
blooded animal. These dogs have all their papers, history, and information. To
find out what's available, call your local animal shelter.
Don't overlook the mixed breeds! Many mixed breed dogs make loyal, protective,
intelligent and beautiful pets. They come in all sizes, shapes and colors. Long
haired, short haired, floppy eared, stubby tailed--these dogs are an amazing
hodge-podge of personality and looks. Never underestimate the pet quality of
mixed breed dogs.
Your child's perfect dog may be waiting behind the doors of your local dog
pound. Phone the director to find out what animals are available for adoption.
Or contact a breeder to line up the purebred puppy of your child's dreams. With
a little forethought and planning, your child can end up with a companion animal
that will be a wonderful part of your family for many years to come. |
