Study Chiang Mai, Thailand, December 22, 2025 – A large scoping review of child–dog interactions reveals that while children often benefit from living with or engaging with dogs, the effects on dogs themselves are more mixed and frequently negative, underscoring the need for improved welfare considerations.
The review by Giraudet, Liu, McElligott, and Cobb (2022) synthesized findings from 393 documents spanning more than four decades. The authors investigated how children and dogs interact in everyday life and assessed the resulting physical, psychological, and social impacts on both species. Interactions ranged from neutral coexistence to positive behaviors such as petting and caregiving, as well as negative outcomes including bites and zoonotic risks.
For children, the evidence highlighted consistent physical and emotional benefits. Child–dog interactions were associated with increased activity levels, reduced stress, greater empathy, and improved social development. These benefits reflect the central role dogs often play in childhood environments, particularly as global rates of dog ownership continue to rise.
However, the study emphasizes that dogs do not always experience similar advantages. Children represent the demographic most at risk for dog bites, and many canine–child interactions generate stress for dogs, especially when children behave unpredictably or fail to recognize subtle avoidance cues. Dogs involved in therapeutic or assistance work with children may encounter additional welfare challenges that remain insufficiently studied.
The review also notes shared risks, particularly around physical inactivity and obesity, which affect both children and dogs in households where exercise routines are insufficient. Additionally, the emotional impact of pet bereavement on children is underrecognized, indicating a need for better support strategies during loss.
A key conclusion is that the benefits outweigh the risks for children, but not for dogs. The authors call for longitudinal and cross-cultural research to address gaps in understanding, particularly around canine welfare, free-roaming dogs, and structured child–dog programs such as therapy or educational activities. Their work highlights the importance of informed guidance for pediatricians, veterinarians, parents, and dog owners seeking to promote healthy, respectful human–canine relationships.
Source: Giraudet, C. S. E., Liu, K., McElligott, A., & Cobb, M. L. (2022). Are children and dogs best friends? A scoping review to explore the positive and negative effects of child-dog interactions. PeerJ. No DOI provided in summary.
