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

Standard Insight T&Cs apply

[farhanac]

Because I got tired of fetching the ball myself

[Cailin7]

Love, completes our family, walks, fitness

[Tean1]

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

[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!!

[AnnMumsnet]

Congrats to ExConstance who wins the £300 voucher!

[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.

[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.

[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.

[smit23]

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

[MillyVanilli222]

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

[beckyinman]

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

[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.

[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

[silviam]

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

[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)

[kittyleo1]

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

[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.

[kirstdibby]

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

[Charbru123]

keeps you active

[juju3]

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