For me, the benefits of having a pet in general, but especially a dog are huge. They help teach children about caring, about responsibility and love.

Of course, having a dog is not always a bed of roses. You can expect a long learning curve on house training a puppy. Shoes and anything chewable will be fair game and, even years later, there can be occasional disputes over who really owns the couch.

Moreover, as countless parents have learnt when we bring a puppy, dog or any pet into our house, ultimate responsibility is not with the children. When the novelty of feeding and exercising the pet quickly wears off, you’re it!

Nevertheless, having a pet – especially a dog – does teach kids a great deal. Giving them something they have to think about and care for, something that gives unconditional love, is pretty special.

Bringing a dog home requires commitment, planning and research and finding the right type of dog is crucial.

Active sporty families need an energetic, playful dog that loves to run and tear around the park retrieving frisbees; couch potatoes need a less active breed and if you’re in an apartment with a balcony, it’s probably best to go with a small breed that can’t jump high.

Dogs can be quite costly, needing vaccinations, trips to the vet and you’ll need to factor kennel costs whenever you and your family head off on holiday (if you’re not taking the pooch with you).

Small children and even small dogs should never be left alone. I remember being terrified when I turned my back for an instant to get my baby son’s bottle and found our Pomeranian had managed to jump into his bouncer, snagged his dummy and was snuggled up ready for a good nap.

My fear was not for our son, but rather for our tiny dog with his paddle-pop legs and tiny teeth that couldn’t take the skin off a rice pudding. If there was any argument he was the one more likely to come off worse.

But for all the occasional dramas and challenges, I don’t doubt the benefits. Our kids start and finish most days tucked up under a blanket on the couch with their happy, boisterous cocker spaniel that gets and gives a lot of love. The family wouldn’t seem complete without man’s best friend.