Growing up with a dog creates invaluable lessons.

Dogs have a special place in the hearts of many adults and children. If well trained and supervised, dogs provide many valuable lessons and benefits to children.

Here are four great reasons dogs are super companions for kids as they grow up together:

1. Dogs teach children patience. Dogs can be cheeky! They chew, scratch and play, and don’t always listen. This teaches children to restrain themselves and not to be angry at or hit their dog for doing something it doesn’t understand is naughty. Training a dog to walk on a lead, go to the toilet, and sit can be very rewarding to the child.

2. Dogs teach children responsibility. Having to feed, provide water and clean up after their dog, gives children a sense of importance and satisfaction. The relationship that develops can be life-changing for a child and a great support system as they themselves continue to grow and develop.

3. Dogs teach children compassion. Just like humans, dogs feel emotion and pain. They are prone to injuries and the journey of aging during their relatively short lives. As such, your children will witness your dog’s entire life cycle and grieve their passing. This is an invaluable lesson for a child, as they comfort their dog and cope with its loss. Seeing a dog whimper in pain, as it looks to them for help and comfort can teach your child the invaluable skill of helping others in need.

4. Dogs are fun. Last, but certainly not least, dogs are a lot of fun. They play fetch, tug-of-war, or can just keep your child company on a rainy day and fit on a sunny day. They greet you with love and a wagging tail every day and can cheer your child up even on their worst day.