How to choose the right pet breed for your kids

Gone are the days, when a family picture had only humans, today no collage is complete minus your pooches’ picture framed in gold!

That warm, fuzzy feeling in our hearts when we see a beautiful puppy or a kitten playing or sleeping contentedly!

Smart and silly and cute our pets are all of it together, nourishing our hearts with their selfless love and unconditional loyalty.

Most modern-day South African families now have pets, as a lifestyle and there are many benefits to owning a pet.

Pets teach our children valuable life lessons like responsibility, trust, compassion, respect and patience.

While pets offer a lot of benefits to our kids, have we ever mulled over how deeply it may affect them, if not kept well? While we get to decide everything that they would eat or do, are we conscious of making the right fit?

Choosing the right breed of pet for our homes is the first and most important decision we need to make, and that requires careful consideration.

Since most homes have dogs over cats, let’s address what factors to consider while adopting a dog.

1. Temperament
Decide on a breed that has a friendly and patient temperament. Dogs that are known for their calmness and affectionate nature are good choices for families with children. Golden retrievers, Beagles, Poodles, and Pugs are some recommendations that I can make.

2. Size
Consider the size of the dog, and how it will fit into your home. Larger dogs can be more difficult to handle and may pose a risk to small children. Medium to Smaller breeds may be more suitable for families with apartment settings. But should you have grounds, please don’t shy away from the mastiffs as they are a sight to watch in open spaces.

3. Energy level
Consider the energy level of the breed. High-energy dogs require a lot of exercise and playtime engagements, while low-energy dogs may be more suitable for families who prefer a relaxed lifestyle.

4. Trainability
Breeds that are easy to train and willing to learn could make a better choice. Dogs that are highly intelligent and enjoy working with people are good choices for families with children.

5. Vet check-ups and registration certificates
Before adopting a dog into your home, get a vet check-up done and also read its registration papers. Ensure that your newly adopted pet is healthy and free of genetic disorders. Regular veterinary check-ups are important to ensure that your dog stays healthy and happy.

It is also important to remember that every dog is an individual, and breed traits are not a guarantee of a dog’s behaviour. It is essential to socialize, treat and train your dog properly, regardless of the breed, to ensure that they feel safe and loved, and hence are well-behaved around children.