7 Reasons to Get Your Kids That Dog They've Been Begging You For

Whether it's a daily walk, the occasional bath, or regular grooming, doling out some of the responsibility that comes along with pet ownership to the kids can be beneficial to all.

Dogs need physical activity. Kids need physical activity. The fresh air is good for everyone. You do the math!

If he has the right temperament, your dog could be the perfect candidate to be a therapy dog. These specially trained animals go into classrooms, hospitals, and libraries to visit with and soothe individuals (including kids!) to serve a very special purpose.

If your child is old enough, they can be part of this unique experience.

You probably shouldn't head out for a night on the town leaving Fido as the responsible party, but dogs have a keen sense of ownership when it comes to "their" kids. If you leave a dog and sleeping baby in a room together, you can almost be certain that the pup will run and get you if she wakes up or cries.

If your kids are old enough to understand, get them involved in the research and preparation that goes along with adding a canine member to the family. From selecting a shelter or breeder to determining the best type of dog to fit in with your family, there are plenty of lessons to be learned along the way.