A sense of responsibility may well grow out of the relationship, but it is unfair to the animal to put his entire well-being into the hands of young children. Even the most dog-loving youngsters tire of daily chores, and parents who try to force the regime will be asking for friction. Unfortunately, it is the puppy who is the loser in this battle. Responsibility lessons are better left to household tasks that do not involve any pet. The essentials of feeding, house breaking and discipline training will fall to an adult member of the household.
Children can help with the less essential jobs of grooming and walking.
This is the main function of a child-dog partnership. A puppy is not cheap. Whether you pay a nominal fee at the city humane shelter or what seems to be a king's ransom for a really special pup from a breeder, the money paid to make the pet yours is a mere drop in the bucket compared to what it will cost to keep him. There will be veterinary bills to pay for both emergencies and regular vaccinations and checkups. There will be city and county licenses to buy.