Best pets for young children: what to ask before you choose
Ask your vet about your own pet. This page is general information from the sources below.
The AAP does not name a best pet by age. It says many dog bite injuries involve young children, so waiting until a child is older than 4 may be safest, and that maturity varies: some 6-year-olds are calm around animals and some 10-year-olds are not ready. Choose by an animal's temperament, not just its looks (AAP).
Checked October 29, 2026.
Questions to ask first
- Who will do the work? Parents do most of the pet care. Children around 5 or older can help with simple jobs (AAP).
- What is the animal like? Large or strong dogs may not suit homes with young children, and animals with a history of aggression or biting should be avoided. Shelter staff can suggest animals for your home and children's ages (AAP).
- Any allergies? Know whether your child has allergies before you adopt (AAP).
- A baby or toddler at home? The AAP says a puppy or kitten may not be ideal in an already busy house, especially without pet experience.
- Reptiles, amphibians or chicks? The CDC says children younger than 5 should not handle them (CDC).
Not ready yet?
Try fostering, volunteering at a shelter, or caring for a friend's pet for a weekend. Take the quiz.
Sources
- AAP HealthyChildren: How old should our children be before we adopt a pet? (updated 22 April 2026) (checked October 29, 2026)
- CDC: Reptiles and amphibians (checked October 29, 2026)