Key reasons for getting a dog - share them here - chance to WIN £300 NOW CLOSED

[AnnMumsnet]

Calling all dog owners, or previous dog owners - please share your key reasons for getting a dog in the first place. What prompted you to get a four legged friend? Was it for you, for the kids or the family as a whole? How has having a dog improved your life? Does having one make you go out more? Has it taught your children to be more responsible? And are dogs something your family have always had or were you new to dog ownership when you got one?

The team at Pedigree would love to know all about why having a dog is brilliant! Pedigree® and the Waltham® Centre for Pet Nutrition have clear information on how to care for your dog – from information on diet and dental care to tips and tricks for training- over here: www.mumsnet.com/microsites/pedigree/feed-the-good

Whatever your advice, please add your comment below and you'll be entered into a prize draw, where one MNer will win a £300 voucher for the store of their choice.

Thanks
MNHQ

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[juju3]

It helps teach children about the responsibilities involved in owning a pet

[Charbru123]

keeps you active

[kirstdibby]

companionship, some one to take for a walk, loyality, house is empty without one, part of the family

[dwerry]

I got a dog because I love the companionship they give. Also I love walking & it's so much more fun taking the dog with me.

[kittyleo1]

companionship, love and healthy benefits like stress relief, and outdoor exercise, when walking the dog.

[Lisapaige24]

Well I got my first dog 10 yea s ago when my husband was stationed in Germany and I lived in the uk with our daughter I thought a dog would be good company for me and someone to play with for my daughter who was an only child but it ne dog turned into two dogs the two turned into three and I wouldn't be without any of them there always pleased to see me there good company and keep you fit and active taking them on lots of walks there part of the family and there spoilt but I love them all so I don't mind
Gizmo (11) Max (6) Roxi (3)

[silviam]

I believe that it is very importantfor children to grow up with pets, it makes human more compassionate towards other human being.

[cathwarbur]

Getting a dog is rewarding for the family, it teaches childen respect for animals, it's a companion and needs walking/getting fit for family

[AngelwingsPetlamb]

Getting a dog is great for your mental and physical health. A dog needs exercise and so you will have to get up and go out whether you want to or not. Dogs encourage social interaction with other humans and dogs need washing and grooming which makes us think about anything other than ourselves, very handy if you are becoming a little isolated or low in mood.

[beckyinman]

Because at least the dog will be pleased to see you when you get home!

[MillyVanilli222]

It's proven that stroking a pet is good for mental health and development!

[smit23]

It's fairly simple: the love that they bring to your home & the love you are able to give to them

[windowmouse]

I grew up having a dog and loved it, so I always knew I would have a dog in my family. They are great to get the family out and exercising and great for the kids to have some responsibility.

[stewaris]

There's a whole host of reasons to get a dog including - companionship, unconditional love, loyalty, friendship, cute tricks, never judges and is there when you're down and lonely.

[FireflyGirl]

I had a dog growing up, and it was great to always have a friend.

Once DS is a bit older, I'm hoping to get a dog. We already go on lots of walks as a family which a dog would enjoy, but it will teach DS responsibility and about unconditional love.

[AnnMumsnet]

Congrats to ExConstance who wins the £300 voucher!

[JoGodfray]

We chose to get Darcy, a wonderful red setter and I have to say I met more people in my local park walking her than I did pushing my youngest in a pram. Pets provide a valuable means of social interaction. Dogs also improve your physical well being and gets outside even if the weather is not playing ball. My children adore Darcy and their friends alike. She is getting to be an old lady now and time is not on her side. I really couldn't have chosen a better dog to grow up with my children and would highly recommend anybody who is thinking of getting a dog and can provide the time to spend with them to do it!!

[Tean1]

To teach your children to help look after them, and have someone to cuddle

[Cailin7]

Love, completes our family, walks, fitness

[farhanac]

Because I got tired of fetching the ball myself

[ICanSeeYourPixelss]

We got a dog to encourage us to walk more as a family and to teach my little one more responsibility

[SERENITYNOW123]

Our dog has been a wonderful companion for us all, especially our daughter, who was 4 whenever we got him. He gets us out and about, is always delighted to see us and is completely tuned into our moods. The house is a lot hairier, muddier and funnier! We love him to bits!

[Lulabellx1]

Keep you fit
Give you and your family loyalty and love
Create a sense of responsibility in the children
A friend for life
Nutures kids caring nature
Keeps my feet warm in bed!

Now... if you re-home a dog from an animal shelter... you'll get even more joy out of it! :)

[MaltyCocoa]

I am trying to persuade my husband that we need a dog in our lives right now

My winning argument was that it would be someone for him to cuddle in bed when I banish him to the spare room for snoring too loudly!

[boo2410]

I was coming back from lunch one day and our Gypsy Liaison Officer was in the main reception of the Civic office with a gingerish terrier on a bit of rope. I asked her what she doing and she said there was talk going round the site that the dog was going to be dumped on the M25 so she was taking him to the RSPCA inn Chobham.

By now the dog had rolled over so I was stroking his tummy and chatting when I heard me say I would take him home. I lived on my own but we'd always had a dog at home so I knew all about looking after them. I cleared it for an afternoon off then me and Albie (real,name Albany Jack, named after my Great Grandad and my Grandad) went on to buy all things dog!

We got home and Albie got himself acquainted with his new home I took him to the vets for his jabs and after a tooth inspection the vet said he was about 6 months old and was a Fox Terrier cross.

We had 15 years of fun when sadly his legs gave way so after a final packet of Cadbury animal chocolate biscuits (his favourite) and many strokes, cuddles and tears he made his way to Rainbow Bridge.

Our son came home from school and was naturally very upset, particularly as it was his birthday. But I said that although it was very upsetting we would celebrate his birthday and Albies life.

So to anybody who is thinking of getting a dog I say go for it. Yes they will sometimes drive you bonkers but you will get so much fun and enjoyment you won't regret it.