I have way more grand-dogs than grandchildren. Two of our three children have multiple dogs and no kids. The one who has two kids also has two dogs. I looked on line and found that I, as a grandparent, am not alone. This seems to be a phenomenon. People want dogs INSTEAD of kids. Is this happening in your family?

 

One kid, two grandkids, one grandcat and one grandbird, no granddogs.

I can't really help with your research.

 

Hmmm,
they potty train in a few weeks, they will guard the house, there is no tuition.
No one gets upset when you walk them on a leash or strap on a shock collar for training.
and if they misbehave you can cut their neuter them.

what's not to love?

 

I don't think there is anything new about that. I have no regrets and get my kid fix through my niece and nephews. However, dogs are a great responsibility, also. I loved all mine over the years, but don't want that responsibility now. I guess it's like being an empty nester, except when they leave they don't come back home to live.

 

Molly and FloJo are our kids. They sleep in our bed. We take them everywhere, including trips whenever possible.

 

If you want to know the real cost of health care (not to be confused with health insurance) take your dog to the vet with a serious issue. We have experienced bladder stones, pancreatitis, and meningitis over the years (several dogs). Never a question on providing the care on our part as they ARE the new babies. Thank God for the College of Veterinary Medicine at Ohio State.

-- Chuck

 

From my perspective many young people start their marriage off by buying a dog. One often leads to two. Plus a lot of young people hold off on having children so they can enjoy life a little longer before being parents. All good things in my book.

 

Yes.

We can't have our own biological children, we have a fur baby instead.

 

Don't forget that most dogs come with no college fees.

 

Here is our fur baby Sydney No room for kids