The age for a child to have a dog depends on the individual child and how much responsibility he or she is capable of handling. Most children under ten years should not be asked to assume feeding and care duties. That would not be fair to the puppy. Unlike a doll, a dog is a living thing and looks to his master for regular feedings, exercise and care. A dog should not be brought into the home until the child has been well informed of the chores involved. The child should really want a dog. It cannot be a temporary whim. The daily task of caring for a dog is excellent for training a a child to accept duty and responsibility, but for the puppy's sake, a child must be supervised.

Always prepare children for a new puppy in the home. Like a new baby, a puppy requires undisturbed sleep. Never allow children to tease or abuse a puppy; gentle hands always - no tail pulling or poking objects in eyes and ears.

The majority of children love animals and if a fear exists, it can usually be traced to a frightening experience with a snappy dog, or it is a learned experience from the child's parents. Many times this can be overcome by the introduction of a puppy with a gentle nature. Such a puppy, living and growing with the child can, in almost all cases, completely overcome the child's fear of dogs. The child's affection for the dog will be rewarded manyfold in the love and loyalty that every puppy has to give. Every puppy requires regular visits to the veterinarian. Take the child along to learn the importance of a healthy dog and establish a closer relationship between the child, his dog, and the veterinarian. Great Danes serve as both guardians and playmates for children.

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