At one point in our journey through baby denial, my spouse and I found ourselves with four cats and two dogs. For anyone keeping score, that’s quite a lot of animals—and I certainly wouldn’t recommend it as a method of birth control. Managing that many pets is a hefty commitment in terms of time and finances. Yet, despite the chaos, I would advocate for adding a dog to your family for the sake of your sanity. If you’re a parent and don’t already have a dog, I urge you to consider adopting one—just one will suffice; no need to go overboard.
Concerned about the added responsibilities? Never owned a dog before? Prefer cats? Trust me when I say that a dog can actually simplify your life. Here are eight reasons why every family could benefit from having a dog:
1. A Loyal Companion During Feeding Time
While you’re busy feeding the baby—whether nursing or bottle-feeding—a dog can be a comforting presence. They often settle down by your feet, ready to offer companionship even during those late-night feedings. My dog, Bella, would gently nudge me when it was time to tend to the baby’s needs.
2. Built-in Exercise Buddy
Dogs require daily exercise, which means you’ll be encouraged to take walks regularly. Fresh air and physical activity are great for both you and your little one. They can help you regain your fitness post-pregnancy and combat those baby blues.
3. Non-Judgmental Listener
When you find yourself pouring that extra glass of wine while shedding tears over the challenges of parenting, your dog is there without judgment. They won’t care about your emotional outbursts; they’ll simply be there to clean up the cookie crumbs you might have indulged in during tough moments.
4. Natural Diaper Alert System
If your dog starts sniffing around the baby’s bottom, it’s a clear sign that it’s time for a diaper change. No need for you to get involved in that dirty business—your furry friend will help alert you to the situation (and might even try to nibble on the diaper if you’re not careful).
5. Unconditional Love
Dogs are incredibly grateful for any affection you give them, contrasting sharply with the sometimes demanding nature of an infant. Their appreciation can be a heartwarming reminder of the joys of companionship.
6. Mess Cleanup Crew
Dogs can be surprisingly helpful when it comes to cleaning up spills, whether it’s milk or baby food. While you may cringe at the thought, remember, they save you from the mess. And if you have a cat, they’ll even clean up the occasional furball, affectionately referred to as “hot lunch” in our house.
7. Sniffing Out Odors
If you’re puzzled by an unpleasant smell in your home, let your dog take the lead. They have a knack for locating the source of foul odors, which can save you from crawling around on the floor. Dogs often enjoy investigating smelly spots, so you can trust them to help you out.
8. A Cleanup Crew for Mealtime
When your baby starts on solid foods, mealtime can become chaotic. Food ends up everywhere—your child practically becomes a mini Jackson Pollock. Without a dog, I genuinely don’t know how parents handle the mess. My dog, Luna, was an expert at tidying up after meals, making it easy to skip the cleanup and head straight for relaxation (and perhaps a glass of wine).
In summary, if you’re on the fence about welcoming a dog into your family, I can assure you it’s a decision you won’t regret. The companionship, support, and cleanup assistance they provide are invaluable, especially during the early years of parenthood. For more tips on parenting and family life, you might find our post on boosting fertility supplements interesting. And if you’re looking for expert insights into fertility, check out Dr. Liam O’Sullivan, your dedicated fertility consultant. For further information on pregnancy and home insemination, visit this excellent resource on female infertility.