15 Things That Prove Having a Dog Isn’t Always Easier Than Raising a Child
People love to debate whether raising a dog or a child is more difficult. While kids come with their own challenges, dog owners know the truth—dogs can be even harder to manage in ways most parents don’t expect. Here are 15 reasons why having a dog can sometimes be harder than raising a child.
Dogs Never Grow Up and Become Independent
With kids, the goal is to raise them into independent adults who eventually take care of themselves. Dogs? They remain permanently dependent. No matter how well-trained they are, they will never pack their bags for college, pay their own bills, or learn to cook dinner. You’re on duty for life.
You Can’t Take Them Everywhere
Parents can bring babies almost anywhere—restaurants, grocery stores, even airplanes. Try that with a dog, and you’ll quickly run into “No Pets Allowed” signs. Finding a pet-friendly café is a struggle, let alone taking a spontaneous trip without securing dog-friendly accommodations or a sitter.
You Can’t Enroll Them in School
When kids hit school age, parents get a break. They send their child off for several hours a day, five days a week. Dog owners? There’s no structured education system where they can drop their pup off for free supervision and enrichment. Instead, they pay for expensive training or doggy daycare.
Babysitters Are Easy to Find—Dog Sitters, Not So Much
It’s easy to find a babysitter for a human child. Most teenagers will happily take care of a kid for some pocket money. But finding someone to look after your dog? That’s another story. Many people won’t commit to the responsibility, and professional pet sitters charge a fortune.
Vet Bills Are More Expensive Than Pediatricians
Parents might complain about medical costs, but at least they have health insurance for their kids. Dog owners? They’re paying out-of-pocket for every check-up, vaccine, and emergency. A routine vet visit can be as expensive as a human doctor’s visit—without any insurance to soften the blow.
Dogs Will Never Learn to Use a Toilet
Diapers are a temporary inconvenience with kids, but dogs will never learn to use a toilet. Instead, you’ll be picking up poop forever—whether it’s scooping it in the yard, cleaning it off the carpet, or carrying little plastic bags on every walk for the rest of your dog’s life.
Travel Becomes a Nightmare
With kids, you can book a plane ticket, take a road trip, or even relocate without major complications. With a dog? You’re researching pet-friendly airlines, securing health certificates, or dealing with sky-high boarding fees if you dare leave them behind. A spontaneous vacation? Forget about it.
They Can’t Tell You What’s Wrong
A sick child can at least say, “My stomach hurts.” A dog? They just stare at you while you play detective, guessing whether it’s food poisoning, an allergic reaction, or something worse. By the time they show symptoms, it might already be serious—and a costly vet bill follows.
Grooming Is a Lifelong Expense
Kids eventually learn to bathe and dress themselves. Dogs? You’re either spending hours wrestling them into a bathtub or paying professional groomers to do it for you. Some breeds require constant brushing, nail trims, and specialized care, making grooming a never-ending (and expensive) task.
They’ll Never Outgrow Their “Terrible Twos”
Human toddlers eventually mature and learn impulse control. Dogs? They stay in a permanent state of mischief. Whether it’s chewing on furniture, stealing food, or zooming around the house at midnight, they’ll always need supervision and training to prevent chaos.
No One Calls You a “Dog Mom” at Work
Moms and dads often get workplace flexibility—maternity leave, early leave for school events, and general understanding. But if you tell your boss you need to leave early because your dog is sick or anxious? Expect judgment, not sympathy. Apparently, “dog parent” isn’t a socially accepted excuse.
They Can’t Join in Family Holidays
Kids get Christmas presents, go trick-or-treating, and sit at the table for Thanksgiving. Dogs? They spend holidays begging for scraps or locked in another room while guests arrive. Sure, you can buy them a Santa outfit, but they won’t appreciate the effort like a child would.
You’ll Always Have to Plan Your Day Around Them
Parents can hire a babysitter and enjoy a date night. Dog owners? They have to rush home to let the dog out. Spontaneous plans are out of the question—if you don’t get home in time, your furniture (and possibly your floors) will suffer the consequences.
Their Lifespan Is Heartbreakingly Short
You raise a child, hoping to see them grow into adulthood and live a long life. With a dog, you’re signing up for inevitable heartbreak. No matter how much love and care you provide, their lifespan is short, and you’ll have to say goodbye far sooner than you’d ever want.
People Will Judge You for Everything
Parents get unsolicited advice, but dog owners get it worse. Feed kibble? Someone will shame you for not cooking homemade meals. Use a leash? Someone will tell you it’s restricting your dog’s freedom. Let your dog on the couch? Prepare for endless debates on “good” vs. “bad” pet parenting.
