Starting a family is a huge responsibility since you're in charge of your child's health and well-being. As your kids grow up, you constantly monitor their diet, exercise and social lives so they get everything they need to become healthy, independent adults.

During the early years of your kids' childhood, you may feel inclined to bring home a puppy. Children and puppies always appear side by side in movies and TV shows. You might even see your neighbors adopt a furry friend or two.

Read on to learn about the benefits of raising your dog with your children. You might find something that surprises you and gets you one step closer to surprising your kids with a new four-legged best friend.

Children Learn About Relationships

When kids are young, they have an instinct to only think about their needs. Even before they can speak, they communicate what they need with you, but it takes a little longer for them to learn about how to build a relationship with someone else.

Adding a dog to your family requires your children to learn how your dog communicates. They figure out when he's happy or sad and how to interact with him. Those lessons follow kids as they grow. 

They become more aware of watching how other people talk through nonverbal methods like body language, instead of only depending on the spoken word. Children also learn how to identify with someone else, since they'll learn that their dog has needs just like they do.

Practicing this level of communication helps kids form deeper human bonds with the people in their lives. Dogs set them up for success, so they start meaningful relationships at an early age.

Dogs Encourage Playtime

Young dogs are full of energy, so they use that to express their love. They'll bring your kids toys and encourage playtime. Children spend almost 25 hours watching television weekly, and your puppy will help them get the outdoor play they so desperately need.

Direct their playtime outdoors to give everyone more space to run around. Time outside builds your kids' imaginations and provides a safe place for your dog to run around freely. Look into investing in a nature-inspired playground so your children use a wide range of muscles while they play with the dog. When dogs and kids have toys outside, they'll love being outdoors almost as much as being inside.

Everyone Gets a Lifelong Friend

You may have been encouraged to have multiple kids so your first child had someone to grow up with. This provides invaluable memories and experiences that create a bond like nothing else. Children can experience a similar attachment when they get the chance to grow up with a dog, so consider these benefits before choosing a pup to raise with your family.