Should Kids Walk Dogs?

Sending your child to walk the family dog may seem like just another everyday things. You may feel that it is a great way to burn off some energy in both your child and dog while providing great exercise. However, not all children are ready for this type of responsibility. There is no “right” age to when it is okay for your child to take on the responsibility of walking the dog but there are some factors you can take into consideration before sending your child and dog out on the streets.

Consider the neighborhood you live in. Is it a quiet neighborhood or a heavily traffic area. If it has heavy traffic there are the dangers of accidents and stranger danger. If your child is not stranger danger savvy, no matter what type of neighborhood you live in, it is best you walk with your child while walking the dog.

Some other things to consider are:

• Are there adequate sidewalks in your neighborhood and will your child and dog have to cross any busy roads in their walk?
• Does your child know how to properly clean up after your dog?
• Does your child have the strength to steer the dog away from neighbors gardens and yards?
• Does your child have the strength to control your dog should it bolt after another dog or animal?
• Is your dog well trained and obey commands from your child consistently?
  

Only you can decide if your child is ready and able to handle such responsibility. They may say they are ready, but ready and able are two entirely different things. If you question any of the above considerations yet your child is begging to walk the dog, set out a path that is within eye shot for you and watch them closely until you feel they are both ready to venture further.

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