My Niece wants a dog?

Question

My Niece says she would like a dog. Yes this is a question "do you think she is capable enough" LoL. She is 12 and she stays home because she does home-schooling on the computer (dont ask) so she is there 24/7 for the dog. I think she is responsible enough but she will always have extra help from family and the dog is going to be all the family's responsibility. What are your comments on this? She likes small-medium dogs.

She wanted a dog because she liked my Chihuahua and loved caring for it.

Her parents and my sister are willing to get one and for the whole family she will definitely get help from Mom and Dad she will not be left in the mud with the responsibility of a puppy.

She's not the type of girl who likes to go to malls and hangs out with girlfriends and does girly things she likes hanging out with her mom and she does have 1 best friend she doesn't have allot of friends but I know her she is not one of those kids that a "here today and gone tomorrow" type of kid.
=)

MELISSA K: how do you KNOW she will eventually lack care for the dog?? Please think before you answer.

Answer 1

get her one seriously i got my dog when i was 9 feed her trained her groomed her ! its a way of showing trust for the child and also helps a child to take on responsiblities, if you trust her an believe in her it will help her confidence there are plenty of books to help train dogs get her one of those as well ive got to say looking after a pup at such a young age helped me understand more about caring and loving s well as understanding how something so small has to depend on me done me good in the long run !

Answer 2

Pesonally I think it's great for younger kids to assume responsibility for an animal's welfare whether it be a dog, cat, hamster, gerbil or fish. As long as it will be a family dog and everyone in the family actually would like to have a dog then I see no problem with that whatsoever. By the way you worded it-the girl wouldn't be the only one caring for the dog which is great. I really wouldn't suggest a puppy if this is to be her first dog. A dog from the shelter would make an excellent companion for a little girl. A dog needs a home and I'm sure your niece wouldn't be able to tell a mutt from a purebred. So bring her to the local humane society and let her pick out her new friend :) Good luck!!

Answer 3

A 12 year old is definitely capable of assuming the responsibility for a dog. The fact that she is home so much may be a good reason for her to have one.

However, the bottom line is what does her parents think? Are they willing to assume the financial responsibility? Are they agreeable to having a dog in the house?
Good Luck and personally, I hope she can have one as a companion.

Answer 4

I personally do not think a 12 is old enough for full responsibility of a puppy. They're like babies. They have to be watched at all time so they don't pee in the house or destroy furniture. They cry in the night. They have accidents. They have expensive vet bills. They need to be trained. I'm sure some 12 year olds could handle it (with help from mom and dad) But most just don't have the attention span or dedication. Most would prefer to go play with their girlfriends then stay with the puppy

Answer 5

When most people find a dog for another person, it usually doesn't work out. She may like your dog, but not another dog. Your dog has had love and attention etc. So not all dogs are going to act like yours.

First, talk to the whole family and make sure they ALL agree on a dog. Especially mom and dad. They may not want the financial burden of a pet.

Second, check into different breeds that would fit in best with the family.

Third, ask permission to take the girl with you to pick out her dog, don't pick one out for her.

Good luck! I'm sure 12 is old enough. My 8 year old girl helps me emensly on our two dogs. She also helps me with the animal rescue that I volunteer for. She's one of the youngest members, I guess she's an animal lover. Like her mother. :-)

Answer 6

That would be a family call/ I do know my grand daughter at that age would be fine to own a dog as far as the care goes. Naturally she would need help financially. Once in a blue moon she would have to be reminded about the mess in the back yard but who wouldn't? Feeding,walking, fresh water, playing, she is great. I think it all depends on the child. Her aunt was also like that. She is 15 now and helps me out with rescues in her spare time. Some children just love animals and will do anything to help.I would not hesitate to leave her completely in charge of mine. I know there are children out there who are plenty capable, as for your niece only you guys know. Good luck!

Answer 7

All I can say is it depends on her. My 12 year old since she was 10 got a puppy. She tries to make money hear and there and she helps with what she can with teh dog she got. She has paid for the dog license since she has had her. she buys or should I say helps buy the food.
She also basically takes care of the dog without bing asked as she knows it's her dog but again is a family dog.
You should know her better and if you think she is ready then yes.

Answer 8

As long as the parents are willing to take up the slack when she inevitably doesn't want to walk the dog, clean up after it, etc. it should be fine. No matter how much she says now that she will take care of the dog, there will be a time she doesn't want to. I work at a shelter so obviously I love animals, but when I was 12 I know I begged off having to feed the dog, let him out, or do other "chores."

Answer 9

If her parents are willing to care for the dog as she gets older and busy with things, then yes. She shouldn't have sole responsibility for the dog - but I'd suggest she get an older rescue dog from a shelter. Good luck!

Answer 10

I say yes I think that it shows responsibly and not looking to much in the future but it could show her how much work it is and what would happen if she ever wanted a child! it would be a good lesson!