Those of us who see dogs as part of their family won’t understand why I am even writing this post.

Those who don’t wont either for that matter, but it’s them I am addressing.

Dogs can be an integral part of your family. I don’t want to advise as to what dog to have. That’s another subject and very individual.

What I do want to say in this post, and I am not saying anything new, is that dogs, as an integral part of the family have more to give than to take.  They become part of your life.

More important they become part of your kids life.
They teach them compassion, caring and not least, they teach kids not to be afraid of animals.

They also teach kids the love for life, any and all life.

It’s a very well known thing that dogs have a “calming” influence on one.

I mean  you and your children.

Now, there are many that are now smugly chuckling and saying. “Calm you???? You forget the dogs hair all over the place, the sand they bring in and if they are not taken or let out the mess they can make when they have to go.”

Others will remind you about the vet bills and the food the dogs eat.

All I have to say is – So what?

The amount they give you and the kids back is much more than they “take”.  And they personally don’t take anything. They only want a pat, hug and good word.

Just seeing the kids with them and then seeing how the kids react when they confront other dogs is reward enough. Forget about yourselves and see how kids react and interact with their pets.

The title of this post is Dogs in the House.  And yes, I am of the opinion that having a dog is having him in the house as a part of the family. Otherwise, why have them at all?

Some want them as guard dogs. In my opinion they are better guards for you in the house, rather than tied up outside. Anyone wanting to break in will just throw them a morsel, sometimes poisoned, or easier still,

just walk into the house out of the great guards reach. In the house barking will scare anyone, especially if they cannot see the animals.

Maybe I have convinced some of you to get a dog.

However, we need to remember that a dog is a living creature, with feelings and needs. Having one is a great responsibility. Don’t get one if you are not willing to be responsible for it’s welfare for the next fifteen or so years. Dogs are not toys.

I also strongly advise that you get one from a shelter. There are many that would love to get a new loving family.

Now you are ready, or not, for a new addition to the family.