Why Dogs Are Better Than Kids: 14 Ways
Although people have always had some concept of proper nutrition for canines, it wasn’t until after World War I that commercial production of dog food commenced, with Ken-L-Ration canned horse meat. In modern times, our attitudes about our canine companions have us considering them family members.1
In fact, some people call their pups their fur babies and refer to themselves as dog parents. You may wonder if there are people who are putting off starting families or vetoing the idea altogether because they find enough fulfillment with their pets. It may sound far-fetched, but there's a convincing case for dogs being better than kids!
The 14 Ways That Dogs Are Better Than Kids
1. Canines Are Cheaper Than Kids
The average annual cost of owning a dog runs between $1,270 and $2,803. That comes out to a lifetime cost of $19,893 to $55,132.2 Meanwhile, you might spend that amount in a single year or college semester for your child. Dog products are also cheaper than the things that kids need and want. Think of the cost of sports equipment or a cell phone. You can undoubtedly spoil your pup, but you’ll still likely find that they’re far less expensive than a child.
2. Dogs Won’t Take or Break Your Stuff—Usually
A dog isn’t going to borrow your car and get into a wreck; they won’t use your debit card to buy Taylor Swift concert tickets. That’s not to say that your pup will never knock over a vase or chew your shoes, but that’s where training comes into play. You can teach them to leave your stuff alone and have peace of mind that everything will stay safe even if you’re not around to make sure.
3. Canines Don’t Really Have Temper Tantrums
Parents call them the terrible twos for a reason! Luckily, you don’t have to worry about that with a dog. Dogs won’t start screaming and crying at a restaurant if it’s past their bedtime. They’ll enjoy whatever attention they get from the staff, especially if a treat is involved. Your pup also won’t have a fit if you have to leave the store to go home. Instead, they’ll usually happily follow you wherever you go.
4. Dogs Are Less Work
Kids are synonymous with a lot of work. You have to make sure they do their homework, are fed, and get to practice on time. You have to wear so many hats, from short-order cook and disciplinarian to tutor. Dogs just need a couple of daily walks, which you probably will also enjoy, along with food, water, and some attention to stay happy and healthy.
5. They Won’t Fight Taking Naps
You will never hear any complaints about taking naps from a dog. Your pup will gladly see to their rest needs without much help from you. They will nap if they're bored and won’t make a fuss or grouse about it being time to go. You also won’t have to worry about them waking up in the night crying (after the puppy phase). Better yet, dogs won’t keep you up at night worrying about their whereabouts or when they’re going to safely arrive home.
6. Dogs Aren’t Finicky
Dogs will eat just about anything without complaints. That’s a blessing and a curse when it comes to accidental poisonings. There’s a good reason that there are so many cases involving canines. They will eat what you put before them, even if it’s the healthy food they must eat. They may even eat their vegetables! You can give them the same thing every day without a fuss. Just try that with your teenager.
7. Dogs Sometimes Clean Up After Themselves
Dogs often clean up after themselves when they spill stuff. There's some kibble outside of their dish? No problem! Did you drop a piece of chicken on the floor? Leave it to Fido to be Johnny-on-the-spot (though we recommend quickly cleaning up people foods that could cause digestive issues or that could be dangerous).
8. Dogs Don’t Complain
No matter what the issue, your dog isn’t going to chew your ear off about leaving the doggie park early or cutting your walk short because it started raining. Your dog will go with the flow without any hassles. If your day means a quick trip to the store, they’re ready to keep you company on the ride. Is dinner late? No problem! Do you have to go to the vet? That’s okay as long as a treat is involved!
9. Canines Aren’t Judgmental
Your pup won’t make fun of you for wearing the same dated shirt 2 days in a row, and they won’t grumble over that overly cute doggie collar you bought them for Valentine’s Day either—they’ll wear it with pride. Your pup doesn’t care if you can’t carry a tune to save your life. They won’t mind if you forget the words to the song and make up your own lyrics either. Basically, they love you just the way you are and won’t make fun of any of your little quirks.
10. Dogs Listen to You
Your dog won’t defy you just because. They won’t purposely stay out past their curfew. Better yet, they will learn what “No!” and “Stay!” mean and follow the command every time—with the right training. To that point, training happens far more quickly with a dog than with a kid. Your pup will know your voice and their name since their brains process them similarly. Ask any parent, and they’ll tell you that their kids have a tendency to ignore them no matter how many times they call.
11. Your Dog Won’t Bug You to Borrow the Car
There’s a delightful window in parenthood when the family vehicle isn’t an issue. Sure, you have to drive your kids around, but at least you know the tank isn’t empty and there aren’t any new dents. You also don’t have to worry when your kid borrows the car, hoping they remember all the rules of the road. You won’t get an unexpected letter in the mail about your supposed parking fines or worry for hours about whether they’re going to make it to their destination safely.
12. Your Pet Is Always Happy to See You
No matter what the occasion or how long you’ve been gone, your dog will be happy to see you. Their happiness is evident on their faces. Their tail will be wagging 100 mph, with maybe a bark or two to announce your arrival. Who wouldn’t love getting that kind of attention all the time? Even if no one acknowledges you’re home, your pup will know and show you their gratitude.
13. No Diapers? That's Not a Problem!
Housebreaking is a major milestone for your puppy. It also happens a lot quicker than potty training your toddler. Hopefully, house soiling will be a thing of the past. Yes, you still have to use those nasty plastic bags or the dreaded scooper. However, it’s less often and not as unpleasant. You’ll also save a lot of money with less of an environmental impact.
14. Dogs Will Give You Unconditional Love
The best thing about owning a dog is the unconditional love you’ll receive. Your pup will be there for you if you’re sad or lonely. They will be your trail buddy and will happily keep you warm at night too. They won’t go through phases and ignore you because their love is always on tap, and little encouragement is needed to enjoy it.
Conclusion
Owning a dog is a rewarding experience for anyone able and willing to make the commitment. While it involves time and money, it can fulfill a vital need for companionship. Dogs can’t replace kids, but they have much to offer those who want a best friend. The moniker couldn’t be more fitting to describe our canine companions.
See also:
Featured Image Credit: thka, Shutterstock
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Since 2009, Chris has written on a variety of topics. Her motto with all of her writing is “science-based writing nurtured by education and critical thinking.” She specializes in scientific topics, with a special love for health and environmental topics, and of course, pets of all shapes and sizes.
Chris lives happily with her husband and three cats in the land of 10,000 lakes, writing, wining, and boating as much as she can. She and her husband, Norm, were awarded the State of Kentucky Colonel Honor for their restoration work at Mammoth Cave National Park.
