Kids & Dogs: Simple Tips to Make Their Bond Safe and Happy

Research has shown that children who grow up around dogs often benefit both physically and emotionally. Taking care of a dog can teach kids about responsibility—and if someday they have to say goodbye to their furry friend, it can help them learn to cope with loss. Plus, dogs can be loyal companions, playmates, and even a source of comfort when kids feel stressed or unwell. On the flip side, there are rare but unfortunate cases where children end up getting hurt by dogs—whether it’s their own pet or someone else’s. Even if you specifically pick a “kid-friendly” breed, there’s no absolute zero-risk scenario. The good news is: by following a few simple tips (and giving both kids and dogs some healthy boundaries), most accidents are totally avoidable.