Children learn through play. Dogs love to play. Our children can, and do, learn from playing
with their dogs. Our society encourages stimulation of social and intellectual development
for our children in their homes. “Dogs can play an important part of the development of
children in ways that enhance their life experiences.

Research has shown that children are more likely to have healthy levels of self-esteem than

children who don’t own pets. These values continue and develop in adult life,” states Dogs NSW

Spokesperson and Veterinary Adviser, Dr Peter Higgins.

Dogs NSW encourages families to teach their children responsible ownership of their pets.
This duty has a positive impact on the self-esteem of our youngest members of society.
When children are instructed and permitted to undertake age appropriate responsible
activities in the care for a pet, they learn far more than how to fill a water bowl.

Children are able to learn about dependence, care, giving and respect for other living beings.

They also learn about themselves and that it is appropriate to serve others for a better family unit.

Pet dogs can provide some valuable lessons in life for children, contributing to their
understanding of the world around them. The birth of new puppies and the processes
associated with a litter birth can be discussed openly and frankly. Parents can discuss
reproduction issues freely, which might otherwise be awkward and embarrassing.

At the other end of the life-cycle, the death of a loved pet brings the opportunity to see how
to deal with real grief. It is important to allow children to process grief and to see adults also
experiencing these difficult emotions. After the death of a dog has been shown to be
manageable, children are better equipped to empathise and understand the situation when a
family member or close friend passes away.

Children exposed to pets at an early age generally have a great capacity for empathy and
caring for others’ feelings.

“Remember though, that young children should be supervised at all times when in the
presence of a dog,” says Dr Higgins. “It is the responsibility of parents and other adults to
involve their children with the care and maintenance of the family pet dog. Preschool
children need help in learning to interpret the play and attack signs of pet animals.”

“Dogs give children unconditional love. Dogs provide enduring affection and will not judge
nor criticise troubled minds. Owning a pet needs to be considered by all parents not just
from the point of view of companionship but also from the viewpoint of our community,”

explains Dr Higgins.