The bond between dogs and kids is something truly remarkable and heartwarming. Not only does their connection transcend time and language, but it also forms a friendship and companionship that is both pure and magical.
These furry creatures manage to captivate the hearts of children and become their trusted playmates and loyal protectors.
Together, they explore the world through shared moments of laughter and forging a bond that knows no bounds.
If you’re still skeptical about dogs and little babies, then this video is certainly for you.
Sharon Welch (@pureheartgsd1) posted a video on TikTok, which went viral. In the video, you can see their German Shepherd playing beautifully with their little baby.
The video currently has more than 2.4 million views and more than 206K likes, and people are obsessed with how precious it is.
“German shepherds are the best! I love what I do and love these videos I get of our puppies! Makes my day everytime!,” Sharon wrote in the description.
Sharon and her family raise high-quality German Shepherds with world-class bloodlines in the beautiful Front Range of Colorado.
They have always loved and appreciated this breed, so seeing their pups play with their kids and grandkids simply makes their heart melt every time.
They are clearly having a blast hanging out with each other, which you can see by their giggles and little grunts.
The dog is so well-behaved that he knows how to be gentle and keep a safe distance, yet still play with his little hooman.
And, the baby is so obsessed with her furry friend that she keeps following him around and giggling.
“Awww that’s a good boy and he seems to be entertaining that precious little girl!!! German Shepherds are real good dogs to have,” said one TikTok user. “This dog will protect this baby with his life,” another one added.
Although some people still have prejudices about raising small children and big dogs together, it has been proven on several occasions that growing up with dogs actually has many benefits for children.
According to the most recent study published in the journal, Pediatric Research, children that grow up in a dog-owning household and actively engage with dogs have higher social / prosocial behaviors. [1]
Those children have lower peer problems and are more inclined to share and cooperate.
Another research conducted by the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) revealed that growing up with dogs can be good for children’s health and happiness, as well as reduce their stress levels. [2]
So, if your dog is well-behaved and properly trained and socialized, then letting your baby play with him will probably result in only good things.
It’s such a serotonin boost for your child and you as well.
References:
[1] Wenden, E.J., Lester, L., Zubrick, S.R. et al. The relationship between dog ownership, dog play, family dog walking, and pre-schooler social–emotional development: findings from the PLAYCE observational study. Pediatr Res 89, 1013–1019 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41390-020-1007-2
[2] McCullough, A., Ruehrdanz, A., Garthe, R., Hellman, C., and O’Haire, M., (2019) Measuring the Social, Behavioral, and Academic Effects of Classroom Pets on Third and Fourth-Grade Students. Human Animal Interaction Bulletin. Advance online publication.
