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Relationship Between Pets and Children

How to Foster a Positive Bond

There is growing evidence that pets, especially dogs, are good for children. This evidence surely helps a child that is trying to convince their parents to get a pet but a positive bond is not always an instantaneous one. There are things adults can do to help foster a good relationship for both the pet and the child while also maximizing some other benefits of a child having a pet.


 

Having a Pet for Children

According to a poll from the C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, about two-thirds of all families have pets: 76% are dogs; 41% are cats; 24% are fish, birds, and reptiles; and 9% are small mammals like rabbits and guinea pigs. In the poll, 63% of the parents said they got a pet for their child to have fun and a companion, and 57% said it would help teach their child responsibility. Besides just companionship, there are many other benefits of pets for children, including:

  • Responsibility
  • Improved emotional, psychological, and physical health
  • Satisfaction in relationships
  • Companionship
  • Respect
  • Loyalty
  • Love, empathy, and compassion


 

Introducing a Pet to a Child

Anytime you introduce a pet to a child, you need to ensure you are watching them interact at all times. A child should never be left alone with a pet until you know both will be safe. This is especially true for very young children. Many pets can scratch or bite a child, even unintentionally, and children can be too rough or be frightened and hurt a pet if they are not monitored by an adult.Ask your child to sit quietly in a chair or on the couch and let the pet come to them or hold the pet for your child to talk to and potentially pet. Have your child offer food or a treat to the pet, either tossed on the floor or gently from the hand, to provide a chance to positively reinforce the experience for the pet. Observe your pet and your child to see how they react. If the child or pet acts too aggressively or rough, work through those interactions as needed.  

Article Sources

  1. One of the family? Measuring young adolescents’ relationships with pets and siblings. Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology. 2017;49:12-20.
  2. Family pets: Pros and cons for kids. National Poll on Children’s Health. 
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