Anyone who grew up with a dog can vouch for the fact that our slobbery, furry friends really are part of the family. Pets bring countless hours of fun and love into any home, and they’ve been found to have a positive influence on little immune systems – and that’s to say nothing of the life lessons we can learn from other animals. Whichever way you look at it, connecting with the animal kingdom has numerous positive effects – on our hearts, health and souls.

A heart-warming collection of cute photos which show the very first bonds between the smallest children and their family dogs.

1. LEARNING HOW GREAT IT FEELS TO HAVE A FRIEND BY YOUR SIDE

2. LEARNING HOW TO PLAY WITH OTHERS

3. LEARNING THAT SAFE, WARM FEELING OF SNUGGLING UP

4. LEARNING THE VALUE OF RELAXING WITH YOUR LOVED ONES

5. LEARNING TO READ BODY LANGUAGE

6. LEARNING TO LOOK OUT FOR ONE ANOTHER

7. LEARNING NOT TO TAKE YOURSELF TOO SERIOUSLY

www.goodnet.org