How Dogs Are Like Our Children

You’re called fur parents for a reason!

Some people may not know this, but taking care of dogs is similar to taking care of kids – and vice versa. Others might think that this is a ridiculous idea, especially for people who would rather have dogs than kids. But come to think about it – both are living creatures, and both need to be taken care of. Dogs are like small, furry, adorable children – that don’t grow taller than you, (unless you’re taking care of a huge breed, that is).

Studies have already shown that the bonds between a dog and an owner, and a parent and a child, are clearly much alike. There might be some sort of psychology behind this, like the idea of the “secure base effect”, when toddlers use their caregivers (parents) as a secure base – much like for dogs. This generally means that trust also means comfort for both toddlers and dogs.

If you’re still not convinced about this concept, then perhaps these reasons might just do the trick:

1. Childhood

Just like toddlers, dogs are born into this world having zero knowledge of anything. It doesn’t mean that dogs can do what humans can such as talking, but when these living creatures are born into the world, they are filled with innocence, and depend on those around them, like their parents. Toddlers cry when they’re hungry while dogs bark. Toddlers have diapers, some dogs need those too, especially when going out. When it comes to potty training, you take time out of the week to train your new fur baby – just like what you do to a toddler!

Dogs, like humans, also get sick. Vet bills are almost the same as human medical bills, especially without any dog insurance. Of course, you can leave your dogs in a clinic – but never with children. Still, taking care of a dog is much like taking care of a toddler:

· bathe them when they’re dirty

· brush their hair and teeth

· teach them how to swim

· take them to a park to meet other kids and dogs

· get them a haircut

2. Affection and attention

Dogs, like children, always seek for affection and attention.

Let’s face it, toddlers love to invade their parents’ personal space. They don’t care where, and when. They’d just force themselves unto their parents, cling like a koala and make inaudible sounds so loud that your neighbors two houses away can hear! Sometimes, they even do it while you’re sleeping. Dogs love to do this too. Both could prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep.

Of course, you can’t blame them for being like this. They’re young – young enough to hate taking naps and young enough to spend their precious time playing, and messing with their toys in the living room. In the end, you’d give them snuggles, put them to sleep every night, and do the very same thing the next day.

3. Adolescence

This is the stage most parents fear the most for their children. Kids leaving their childhood days behind.

Dogs become like independent sixteen-year olds when they grow a little bit older – well, not completely independent. There are instances when you’d still need to hand everything on a silver platter. But they might:

· need some space from time to time

· have the tendency to run away from home

· woo a dog

· mess around and get scolded

Most of the time, you leave them home alone on a date night. Not much different to your children, right?

See? Taking care of children is like taking care of dogs. You spend your energy, time, and money on them, watch them grow up, and watch your life change for the better.