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 children. Even the most dog-loving youngsters tire of daily chores, and parents who try to force the regimen 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 don't involve a pet. The essentials of feeding, housebreaking, and discipline training will fall to an adult member of the household.
Youngsters can help with the less essential jobs of grooming and walking.
Dogs and children do give each other something very valuable - time and attention that adults are often too busy to offer in sufficient quantities. 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, 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.