Dogs and Babies: Safety Tips For Babies Who Live With Dogs

Parents do their utmost to give their children all the opportunities to grow, develop, and become mature and independent individuals. No matter how much education you give them or the best toys you give them from across the world, the valuable lessons gained from a dear furry friend can never be underestimated.

Dogs teach you to love unconditionally and show how children should treat others. Children can learn many life lessons from a canine companion, like greeting people with warmth and a smile.

That certainly does not mean they will sniff or lick people they like. While choosing a dog for your family, you should also consider the safety precautions.

If you want to be practical while selecting a dog breed for your family, then a pooch would be perfect and allow you to teach your little kids about loving and caring for other people and animals. However, ensure you don’t leave your dog with your baby alone.

You surely don’t want to take chances. The pet dog will constantly serve as a reminder of the significance of water, food, and daily exercise. Their cute new furry friend in the form of a pooch will also help your kids recognize that every living creature needs both love and affection on this earth.

Owning a pup sounds great, but not all families think this way. Having a pet at home means you will have a lot of additional responsibilities. Dogs need attention, care, and even money.

So, take your time to understand what you and your family want in a dog. It’s not quite possible to find a pooch perfect and flawless. However, some steps need to be taken to search for a breed that perfectly fits your expectations.

Most people own a breed or even two of their choice, but when you have kids at home, it would be mindful to consider practical information than just personal preference. Here are some issues you should be considered while choosing a dog.

The size matters a lot. Usually, toy-sized or small dogs such as Chihuahuas or several smaller terriers are not suited for families with kids younger than seven. These pups are delicate, and an unintentional squeeze or falling off the couch or bed could seriously damage them.

The reverse is true in the case of large dogs. Big-sized dogs can sometimes be tornadoes, and you can’t keep them with little kids alone. They can be very rough with tiny babies and young children. Bigger breeds are not perfect for smaller homes such as apartments or condos.

Exercise needs attention. Again, big-sized dogs such as German shepherds or Labrador retrievers require a lot of space to run around. A large breed might be great if you have a backyard with a fence or can take your pooch for long walks daily.

Keeping the safety of your kids at home is also a priority. If you travel frequently or cannot give in to an active pup’s exercise requirements, you should consider a pooch that needs more affection and less cardio. A Pomeranian or a Shih Tzu would be perfect. While selecting the pup, don’t get tricked by your kids’ promises to exercise it daily because they won’t.

Grooming needs are essential too. There is no doubt that long-haired breeds such as poodles and border collies look adorable, but that shiny, fluffy coat needs frequent grooming sessions to keep you or a professional busy.

If you choose not to spend more of your time and money on grooming your little pup than you can afford for yourself, then you should settle for a short-haired breed such as a beagle or dachshund. Such dogs usually only need an occasional bath and brush. That’s it.

Dogs, whether large or small, short or long-haired, shed. It’s common and perfectly normal. Even if you want, you can’t avoid it.

If the thought of sweeping up hair makes you flinch, then there are certain breeds, such as bichon frises and border terriers, that shed less hair than others.

The allergic potential is something you need to consider. Dogs having hypoallergenic coats are a good option for people who face pet allergies. Especially if you have kids at home, this can be a problem. Irish water spaniels and Schnauzers are just some breeds that generate less dander, which is the allergy-causing culprit.

Smaller breeds tend to live longer than large dog breeds. A breed’s longevity is something to consider if you don’t want your kid to feel hurt emotionally at an early age. The lifespan of a usual English bulldog is about eight to ten years, while bichon frises have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years.

Finances have a role to play. Pets are costlier than most people think. Sick vet visits, accessories, boarding, food, annual shots, tick, flea, heartworm medication, and prescriptions make way for wallet-busting expenses. So, you have to be prepared for the extra budget. In case of contagious ailments, keep them away from babies.

Caution while playing

Since your children will be playing with the new canine friend, selecting a pup that gets along with them and even bears the unavoidable tail pulls, eye pokes, and other naughtiness is imperative. You would not want your dog to bite your kid.

According to experts, highly trainable breeds are good options for families as they are smarter. Even though it can be tricky to avoid, some experts say that puppies tend to scratch and bite.

When choosing a family dog, it is a good idea to trust in the breed’s reputation. Some pups, such as Labradors or golden retrievers, live up to their good name.

Golden retrievers are known to be good-natured, intelligent, and tolerant. Labradors are obedient, loving as well as energetic.

Pugs are well known for their playful, friendly, and surprisingly tough nature. Beagles are gentle, sweet, and calm with children. Bassett hounds are smart, curious, and friendly furry companions.

There are innumerable breeds to select from, but try not to forget about those little mutts! If you want to save a life, you must visit a local animal rescue group or shelter to find a tiny furry friend. When living with babies and dogs, you must always remember safety tips.