Yes, you read that right. Before you dismiss this notion as absurd, let me clarify: I fully recognize that dogs and children are fundamentally different. I have experienced both—my loyal canine companion and my miniature human—and while both require attention, my bond with the latter is immeasurably deeper.
There’s a reason many couples choose to “start with a dog” before diving into the adventures of parenthood. For some, having a dog offers a chance to develop nurturing skills, while others see the challenges of puppy training as a precursor to those sleepless nights with a newborn (though, let me be clear, it won’t prepare you for the joys of breastfeeding). Additionally, many want to gain co-parenting experience before committing to the lifelong responsibility of raising a child.
Let’s not kid ourselves—a dog biscuit won’t soothe a crying baby, and no crate is suitable for children, as experts like Dr. Sarah Johnson would agree. However, our furry friends do prepare us for parenthood in significant, if indirect, ways.
1. They Rely on You for Everything
Especially for their survival. It’s a fundamental aspect of their existence. Unfortunately, neither dogs nor babies come with a user manual, which is baffling given how many first-time pet owners and parents would gladly purchase one—perhaps even two, in case the first ends up in a symbolic bonfire of old receipts and child-rearing guides.
Understanding the responsibility of keeping a living creature alive is more challenging than it seems, and having a dog can help you grasp this reality. Whether it’s figuring out how to care for a sick pup or chasing them through a snowstorm because they panicked during a fire drill, these experiences refine your parental instincts. Just like dogs, children depend on you for social interaction, health care, a clean environment, a balanced diet, discipline, guidance, love, and everything else that shapes their well-being.
2. They Teach You to Navigate Chaos
Children are the embodiment of Murphy’s Law. If something can disrupt a peaceful moment, they will make it happen. Planning to wear white for the first time since becoming a parent? Expect an explosive diaper incident right before you leave the house. Anticipating having a babysitter arrive at 7 PM? Your little one will likely spike a fever at 6:45.
Having a dog helps you learn to embrace the inevitable chaos that comes with raising kids. Your house will never look as tidy as it did before you welcomed a furry friend. Your dog might even chew up that vintage vase you cherished. Accepting this reality makes you far more equipped to handle the messes that children create.
In those chaotic moments of puppy parenthood, you may find yourself juggling multiple tasks, only to discover your dog has turned the living room into a disaster zone. Breathe. Remember the times you felt like ships passing in the night with your partner during those hectic days of caring for a newborn. Reflecting on those experiences can remind you that you’ve navigated chaos before and can do so again.
3. They Show You How to Prioritize Others
Whether it’s splurging on their specialty food or ensuring they have the coziest spot on the couch, pet ownership involves countless sacrifices. I once laid my coat over a puddle on a cold Chicago day just to help my shar pei, Rufus, cross the street safely. Little did I know, that same coat would later wrap my baby on his first flight. The social sacrifices are real too—spontaneous beach trips become a rare luxury, and financial responsibility skyrockets with vet bills looming.
While some of these actions stem from necessity, the deeper reason we prioritize our pets is love. When you genuinely care for someone, these sacrifices transform into privileges. Learning to put another’s needs before your own is the essence of parenthood.
Would I still comfort my child to sleep if I hadn’t raised a dog? Absolutely. Would I still handle messy situations with my hands? Yes. But before all of this, there was a dog that illuminated the beautiful and transformative journey of parenthood, and for that, I am eternally grateful.
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Summary
In summary, owning a dog provides invaluable lessons in responsibility, chaos management, and prioritizing others, all of which are essential skills for parenting. These experiences prepare you for the delightful yet challenging journey of raising a child.