Your kids want a boston terrier puppy and – hopefully after much deliberation and not simply because you gave in or agreed on a whim – you’ve decide to welcome a dog into your family.  However, before you make any assumptions on what your home life is going to be like once you add a dog into the mix, make sure you and your children are prepared before he lives with you.

First things first, you need to understand that owning a dog is a commitment that lasts throughout his whole lifespan, and that you, not your children, are the primary caregiver of the boston terrier puppy.  Sure your kid will promise to look after their pet, but it’s only a matter of time before you are the one left caring for their four-legged friend.  The pooch is your responsibility.  If you are not up for this task, you are not ready to be an owner.

Secondly, find out everything there is to know about this breed and make sure that your children learn with you.    They need to realize that owning a terrier isn’t about playing or paying attention to the animal when it suits them, but it is also a lot of work.  Explain to them:

  • How many times per day he needs to be fed
  • The number of times he needs to be walked in a day
  • How often he must be groomed and why this is important
  • What makes him excitable and how to effectively ignore/reprimand him
  • Why teaching a boston terrier puppy rules is necessary and why it is essential these regulations are followed.

If you think you child is old enough for a pet then he or she should be able to handle some responsibilities.

Thirdly, it is important that everyone comprehends that boston terrier dogs are not human and they do not think the same way we do.  For instance, if a pup does something we don’t like (I.E. chews furniture, toys or clothing) he is teething or are looking for attention; he is not purposely intending to destroy something to upset you.  Kids need to be told to pick up after themselves and not to blame or physically harm a dog when he does something that angers them.

Finally, children need to learn that just as they require and want their own privacy and space, so does the boston terrier puppy.  When puppies are eating or having quiet time in their crate, teach your son or daughter to leave the terrier alone.  This will help you to avoid any unwanted incidences and assist in establishing a strong bond of respect and friendship between the kids and canine.