Scientists have found that kids who grow up around dogs are 50% less likely to develop allergies and asthma than those who grow up without a dog. This is again attributed to the fact that a child growing up around a dog will have a much sturdier immune system.
Dog ownership has been linked to increased cardiovascular health. It might be because being around a dog can lower your stress, your blood pressure and your heart rate.
In this day and age, some kids are hard to get out of the house, but a dog is a simple way to deal with that. Most types of dogs are great companions for physical activities - it can be by taking a walk around the neighborhood, or enjoying a fun day of playing with balls and ropes in the backyard. All of these lead to healthier kids who are used to a more active lifestyle.
According to a study by the University of Montréal, the stress hormone levels of a child with an autism disorder are dramatically reduced when living with a trained service dog. Many scientists have worked on this subject over the years, and while there is still much to find out about it, no one can argue about the fact that "animal therapy", and dog ownership in particular, can help these children in incredible ways.
7. Family pets lead to sibling bonding.
Having a dog around the house is a lot like having another child. This can help brothers and sisters grow closer through their common love of their pet and reduce other factors like jealousy and rivalry. From sharing the walking and cleaning responsibilities to just playing with him in the yard, a dog can bring siblings much closer together.
According to a University of Cincinnati (College of Medicine) study, children who live with dogs when they are young, and also have an allergy to dogs, are four times less likely to have eczema. The logic behind this is that a mild allergy will not harm a child, and yet dealing with it will make him much more resistant to the effects of eczema.
Growing up with a dog helps children learn social skills, impulse control, and improves their self-esteem. It also makes them much friendlier - after all, when they walk around with the dog, it's very likely that other people and dogs will approach them. The sharing of the dog for a few moments teaches generosity and patience toward others.
Dogs are always happy to see you when you get home, they will always love you and their love is unconditional. They're the ideal confidant and an ever-willing playmate, which means there is no better friend for a child than his dog. Who wouldn't want a friend like that growing up?
