It's going to take your socks. Although temperament is the most crucial consideration, other factors also weigh heavily, including the dog's size, energy level and the amount of grooming, exercise, food and living space required. Owning any dog requires a big commitment of money and time. Wilson advises parents make the initial dog search alone, narrowing the field to a few suitable pooches and then bringing the kids to choose among them. And no matter how much the kids promise otherwise, parents should realize they'll end up taking care of the animal.
Mom has to really want the dog, too.
It's important to neuter or spay the new pet. Besides reducing the unwanted dog population, it may improve behavior, said Kilcommons, who noted that unneutered male dogs between the ages of one and three are the most likely to bite. Once the canine is welcomed to the family, it's best to start training early, before problem behaviors occur. Many owners inadvertently teach their dogs habits that cause trouble with kids, Wilson said. Most people feed their dogs by just lowering the food, with no verbal command.