Having a pet join an already-happy family is one of the most exciting things that can happen. Of course, if you have young children, keeping a pet can be quite a challenge. it requires certain life changes and a lot of patience. But it’s definitely worth it, as studies have shown that children who grow up with pets tend to be more responsible, have increased self-esteem, and develop a stronger sense of empathy. Choosing the right pet for your family, however, is crucial. Not all pets are good for young children, and some can even be dangerous. The best suitable pets for kids are those that are not only safe but also low-maintenance and easy to take care of. That’s what we’ll discuss today: 7 Best Suitable Pets for Kids
The related articles in the blog are listed here:
- 10 Reasons for Kids to Have Pet
- How Much Time a Pet Can be Alone?
- Things to Consider before your Family First Pet
- Top 10 Best Dog Breeds for Toddlers
- What Is the top 5 Safe Family Dog?
Table of Contents
Top 7 Best Suitable Kids’ Pets
Now that we’ve gone over some of the benefits of owning a family pet, let’s take a look at the 7 most popular pets for kids.
1. Dogs
Dogs are one of the most popular pets for families with children. They are loyal, protective, and loving companions that can provide hours of fun and enjoyment. Dogs, of course, have many different breeds and some of them are more kid-friendly than others. Some of the best dog breeds for families with little children are Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Bulldogs, Beagles, and Boston Terriers.
2. Cats
Another extremely popular pick that we need to get out of the way. Cats are another popular choice for families with kids. While cats may be a bit lethargic at times, they are usually very loving and affectionate, and they make great cuddle buddies. Be sure to select a breed that is known to be good with kids. Maine Coons, Ragdolls, British Shorthairs, and Persians are all species great for children.
3. Parrots
Next, we have Parrots, which are becoming increasingly popular pets for kids due to their intelligence. Parrots can be taught to speak, sing, and do tricks. Moreover, they make great companions and can provide hours of entertainment. When choosing a parrot for your family, be sure to select a breed that is known to be good with kids. Popular parrot breeds for families with children include African Greys, Eclectus Parrots, and Conures.
4. Goldfish
In the fourth spot, we have a species less known for its intelligence than parrots. Quite the opposite actually. But they do have their good sides. Goldfish are low-maintenance, easy to take care of, and can provide hours of enjoyment. That makes them really popular among kids and parents alike. Goldfish are also a great option for kids who are allergic to pets with fur. Did you know that there are many different species of goldfish? Some of the more popular ones include Comet Goldfish, Shubunkin Goldfish, and Fantail Goldfish. However, Remember do not feed them too much!
5. Hamsters
And next, we have Hamsters, which are small, cute, and easy to take care of. If you want a pet that won’t take up too much space or make a lot of mess around the house, you should definitely consider getting your child a hamster. They can help you clean up and are a ton of fun to watch. When choosing a hamster for your kid, be sure to select a breed that is known to be good with kids. The best hamster breeds for kids include Syrian Hamsters, Chinese Hamsters, and Dwarf Hamsters.
6. Guinea Pigs
Similar to hamsters, guinea pigs are also pretty cute and easy to take care of. They make great pets for kids because they are gentle, affectionate, and social creatures that enjoy being around people. You can even buy multiple guinea pigs for your kid, just make sure to have enough space to accommodate them. Abyssinian Guinea Pig, American Guinea Pig, and Peruvian Guinea Pig are some of the most well-known and well-sold species out there.
7. Rabbits
Rabbits are delicate, loving creatures that enjoy being around people. It’s hard to find a cutter pet, actually. Rabbits can even be litter-trained, which makes them very low-demanding pets. You can teach your child how to take care of a rabbit and even how to groom it. Some of the most popular breeds include Holland Lop, Mini Rex, and Netherland Dwarf.
Guideline for Caring for a Pet in Age Group
- Since very young children (< 3-4 years) do not have the maturity to control their aggressive and angry impulses, they should be monitored with pets at all times.
- Young children (< 10 years) are unable to care for a large animal, a cat or a dog, on their own.
- Parents must oversee the pet’s care even if they believe their child is old enough to care for a pet.
- If children become lax in caring for a pet, parents may have to take over the responsibility on their own.
- Children should be reminded in a gentle, not scolding way, that animals, like people, need food, water, and exercise.
- If a child continues to neglect a pet, a new home may have to be found for the animal.
- Parents serve as role models. Children learn responsible pet ownership by observing their parents’ behavior.
Closing Thoughts: 7 Best Suitable Pets for Kids
As you can see, there is a pet out there for every child, no matter their personality or preferences. All that’s left to do is to choose the right one for your kid and get started on this wonderful journey.
About Me
Hi, there. I am Lin. Together with my husband and two kids, we live in the beautiful Netherlands in Europe. I am dedicated to self-development, creating quality time for the whole family, and fully supporting kids with their potentials with all I have learned from engineering, MBA, and 10+ years of working experience in the energy sector.
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