Pets are a great way to teach children about responsibility. Kids need to learn that pets are more than just toys they can play with and put down when they get tired of them. But when you decide to get a family pet, you too must show some responsibility and choose wisely. The wrong decision about what kind of dog to get can have consequences that stay with you for 15 years or longer.

A puppy is the best choice when choosing a dog for your child. This allows the two of them to grow and mature together and form a tight bond. Puppies also need more care and require your child to show more responsibility. Often children can be more easily convinced to care for a puppy since you can show them how dependent on them the dog really is.

Dogs in nature are aggressive by nature and therefore almost all puppies will show at least a little aggression. That is something to consider when you are choosing a puppy and a dog that shows a little character will not necessarily turn into a ferocious man eater as an adult. Though for dogs meant as family pets, breeders often try to breed for non aggressive traits. This has resulted in several breeds of dogs that are extremely tolerant of just about anyone or anything. These animals usually make the best choices for families with small children who are often tempted to tug the dogs ears and bother the dog in other ways.

This brings up the point that it's not a good idea to try to place your dog in multiple roles. Any dog will be territorial and alert you when strangers are present, but don't expect your Chihuahua to take down a burglar, though he might try. On the other hand, don't get a dog bred and trained for defense thinking that it will be good around children. Many of them will be, but there's no guarantee and it doesn't make sense to take the risk.

You also need to consider your child's activity level and character when choosing the pet. If you have an active child that spends the majority of his time outdoors running and playing, make sure you choose an energetic dog that can keep up. If on the other hand your child prefers reading and other indoor activities, don't get a dog that will go crazy if kept inside all day.

Regardless of your situation, there is a dog right for your family. Almost all dogs can adapt to any situation if necessary, but when you have the luxury of choosing your pet, do everyone involved a favor and find the best dog for your conditions and family needs.

Once you have the puppy, you need to give it obedience training. This can be done either with the help of a trainer or you can do it yourself if you feel comfortable. Many people say they don't have the time to train their dog, but if that's the case, then they don't have time for a dog in the first place. Training a house pet isn't hard and it will help ensure that it has the right temperament to be around your children and others. A few minutes a day for a few weeks is all it takes to instill a lifetime of discipline in a dog and ensure the best possible family friend.