There's a special bond that is formed between a child and the pets in their home. Raise your children and pets together and they will share a love and respect for each other that is hard to ignore. Cuddling up for a mid-afternoon nap, exploring and playing together; these kid-pet relationships prove that our four-legged friends are not just part of the family, but a big part of forming who are children become as they grow up. Prepare to have your heart melted by these awesome pet and child relationships.
The Cutest Little Cuddles With The Family Cat
Cats can be fickle creatures. Yet, when a small child wants to cuddle up to her kitten they often allow the interaction to happen. This little girl and her cat show us that our family pets are truly loved and a big part of our lives.
They both look incredibly content while sharing a special moment together. For a child, there is often nothing better than sharing a cuddly moment with their favorite four-legged friend. Plus, family pets have shown in studies to help children avoid asthma as they grow older.
A Doggy Bed Of A Different Kind
Even the biggest of pets can form some amazing relationships with the littlest of children in their family. Obviously, this photo was staged but still, the dog looks completely at ease while the family's newest member sleeps on its back. Forget the bear rug, this baby just needs its four-legged friend to fall into slumber bliss.
It's oftentimes the biggest dogs in the family who are the most protective of the most fragile of family members. This makes us want to adopt all the biggest cuddly dogs in the world and open a nursery for children and pets to interact.
The Sweetest Little Nudges
Pet psychologists believe that when cats nuzzle their owners, it's a sign they are marking them. It's the cat's way of saying 'you're mine' and in this case, the 'mine' aspect is its bigger, but younger, family member. Sweet little moments like this remind us that even fickle cats have a way to keep their kid family members feeling safe and loved.
Our pets offer us comfort, bring us joy, and remind us even at a very young age that there is more in this world to care for than just ourselves. Does your family pet interact with your family members in this way?
A Happy Baby And Their Pug Sibling
This baby looks happy as can be snuggled up with its pug friend. Many animals will form a relationship with a baby before it is even born, nuzzling close to mom's stomach during pregnancy and then growing even closer to the child upon its birth.
It's amazing to watch how dogs will literally welcome a human baby into its pack. This is a relationship that will only continue to grow over time as the child becomes a toddler and then continues to maintain his or her relationship with the family dog.
Sharing A Tender Moment Among Friends
Mimicry is a big part of the family pet and child relationship. Our animals tend to be big goofballs in the way they interact with the world. Children act a lot like our pets, constantly discovering the world and finding new ways to do things.
When mimicry occurs we truly discover the funny and special bond our family pets share with our children. It brings a smile to our face when we realize our family pets actually want to engage with our children and be a big part of their lives, even at a very early stage in the child's life.
Making Sure Baby Is Comfortable At All Times
A large dog is the perfect resting place for a small child. When this toddler hunkered down against its dog the massive four-legged pet stayed right in place. There are so many signs that show us our pets truly understand what it means to share a moment.
The only question we have for this adorable pair is, "what were you watching on TV that had both of you so engaged?" We are going to put our money on a viewing of Paw Patrol, a show that both dog and child can enjoy at the very same time and for very different reasons.
Baby And Its Friendly Giant
When we see pictures of a baby and a dog like this two words come to mind — gentle giant. This dog is obviously interested in watching over its tiny little baby friend. Conversely, the child is looking up in wonderment at the gentle giant standing before him.
It's going to take years for this little kid to grow and reach this giant dog's size. In the meantime, we have a feeling this gentle protector is going to keep a close eye on the newest member of the family. This makes us want to go out and adopt a giant dog.
Cooling Off On A Hot Summer Day
It's not just children who love to play in the sprinkler. Our four-legged friends also need to cool off when it gets hot outside. This little boy and his four-legged friend shared some time splashing around and drinking from the hose.
Kids in a lot of ways are just like our pets, always trying to find fun and goofy ways to play around in the yard. Once again we see a great example of child-animal mimicry and it always brings a big smile to our face as they continue to form their bond of friendship in really unique and cute ways.
This Might Be The Most Patient Cat Ever
When you place a cat in a swing with a child and the family pet falls asleep you know there is already a lot of trust in that relationship. This child also does an amazing job of gently cradling his cat in his arms as they swing together.
When a child and his family pet form a bond it's amazing what they are willing to do for each other. This cat may have run away and hidden after this photo shoot but in the moment it really was an adorable and peaceful second the two could enjoy without any cares in the world.
Forget The Cat Nap, Give Me A Dog Nap
Here's a bit of role reversal. Instead of the child napping on a dog, his big drooly friend is using him as a pillow. The baby may be small but it doesn't seem to mind that his four-legged family pet is using them as a pillow. The dog is probably providing the baby with a bit of warmth.
We've seen dogs and children spend hours in this type of cuddly relationship and it always warms our heart. I wonder if they trade positions to keep their nap time fair and balanced throughout the day? Either way, they are super adorable.
Check Out These Adorable Little Goofballs
Who's going to land the first kiss? We love it when a baby and a dog can come together to show off their most goofy of sides. This pair definitely seems to understand each other and play together well.
The dog is either going to lick the baby's face or the small child is going to grab hold of the dog's nose with their mouth. Whatever the outcome may be, this pair proves yet again that children and their pets share a special bond that will only continue to grow over time as they get to know each other.
Sharing A Snack, Cleaning Up At The Same Time
Children can do some pretty silly things that make us scratch our head. This little girl spilled her milk and realized her three family cats were happy to help clean up the mess. She quickly joined them by licking the spilled milk over the kitchen floor.
We guess it's true what they say, there's no need to cry over spilled milk, especially when you have a bunch of cat friends to help you clean up the mess. We do question how long this little girl's parents allowed her to go before they picked her up and mopped up the accident.
Kisses For Baby And Puppy
It's almost as if this little baby and their puppy friend became one with their adorable impromptu kiss. It's as if they are both learning to kiss for the first time and accidentally engulfed each other's faces in the moment. Babies love to give and receive kisses and their puppy friends are no different.
They are obviously both very young and are discovering life together at the very same time. It would be fun to watch these two grow up together and see where their goofy adventures end up. This is why owning a family dog is so much fun with a baby in your home.
They Were Both Tuckered Out
Playtime between a baby and their family's kitten can go on for hours. Eventually, both the cat and the child are going to wear out before too long. When that happens they are likely to cuddle up together and enjoy a baby-cat nap.
This pair proves that the best cuddles are those shared between a fluffy little kitten and a super adorable little baby. If you have the chance to raise a pet and a child together, do it. This is a great way to teach mutual respect to your child and give them an early friend to interact with.
Keeping Baby Warm
The best cuddles in the world come in furry form. This cat and their baby friend appear to have worn each other out so much that they simply passed out. Neither of them is budging, probably because of the close bond they share at a very early age.
The cat even appears to be nuzzling their head against the baby to mark them as their own. It's moments like this that we wish every baby could have a family cat. Does your cat nuzzle up to your family members like this one does with their human baby friend?
They Wanted To Take The Puppy For A Walk
When it comes to caring for a family pet children oftentimes drop the ball. Feeding a dog, picking up after it, and all the other responsibilities that come with owning a family pet are a lot of work. However, children often love going on walks with their family dog and they want to help wherever they can.
This photo of a little child attempting to walk a dog that is nearly their size perfectly sums up the child and pet relationship in a fun and engaging way. Here's to hoping they didn't go for a drag instead, because of the dog's size.
Buddies In A Basket
These parents might have been alarmed when they were wondering where their little boy was. But imagine the awe in their eyes when they found him asleep in the laundry basket with their golden retriever puppies! When puppies are born in a household, it's especially fun for the kids who have mini versions of their beloved canines.
This little guy loves his family's puppies so much that he cuddled up with them and fell asleep! This goes to show how caring and innocent young minds can be. We're sure this little boy will grow up to be a great caretaker of future puppies or even babies of his own!
Kisses For The Kitty
Babies are very loving—especially to other babies! In this case, a baby cat is the one who is getting the love. It looks like this adorable little girl loves the family's new addition of a kitten!
Kids are often told to kiss that which they love and care for and if this is the case, then this little girl really loves and cares about her new kitten! It seems like they are forming an unbreakable bond and since they are presumably just about the same age, we're sure that these two will grow up just like sisters!
When The Dog Babysits
This picture is too hilarious! It seems like this little toddler was running around and playing with the pet dog, but suddenly got very tired. What other place to take a rest than with your best furry friend? Well, this baby ended up falling asleep on the dog and she is all too aware of it.
The dog looks somewhat displeased that she has to remain there so as not to disturb the sleeping baby, but that's what makes it all the more hilarious! It looks like this dog knows how to take care of her human pals and we wouldn't be surprised if she knew how to babysit the tot too!
Good Luck With A Duck
Well isn't this too cute?! This little boy's best friend is his pet duckling. Although ducklings are cute with their waddles and tiny quacks, it doesn't seem like they would be good pets. However, ducks could actually be quite cuddly if they were trained to be. They could also be trained to do tricks, socialize, and play with toys!
But don't get ahead of yourselves, having a duck as a pet is still quite a lot of work and you and your kid should be properly prepared to take on such responsibilities if you are truly dedicated to raising a little duckling as your own.
Just Horsing Around
This little guy looks like best friends with this horse. We love how the horse lovingly rubs his head against the child — the boy is just as big as the horse's head! While horses can be somewhat daunting creatures at first, especially for little toddlers, they can actually be very gentle and teach kids a lot.
When kids are exposed to horses and horseback riding, they are getting in touch with nature and are taught to care for animals and create close bonds with them. When kids are taught horseback riding from a young age, they are taught to approach other things in life, such as school, with the same focus and intensity that riding requires.
The Loving Protector
Sam Temsah-Deniskin of The Frosted Petticoat provided this touching photo! Jack was a newborn who changed the world of his family, even the four-legged members! Luckily, the Labrador looks on board with the family's new addition and has even taken it upon themselves to watch over the newborn as he sleeps soundly.
This is too precious! Often times animals don't adjust well to newborns in the family, but when it isn't a problem, the result is way too cute. We're sure that this pup will be Jack's guardian for a long, long time and the two will grow up to have the most loving relationship.
The Dance Partners
Sometimes pets can be a kid's best friend and this photo is totally proof of that! This little girl probably loves dressing up in her tutu and dancing around like a ballerina. Imagine how much fun she had when she put an extra tutu on the family pup!
While the pup looks like they don't know why they are wearing a tutu or why they are in this situation, but the fact that it doesn't look like they're resisting shows how much they care for the child. The pup is probably just happy that he is getting to play with his best friend too!
Check Out My Sweet Ride
We love this photo of a baby riding a pug! Don't be mistaken — this shouldn't be considered some weird form of animal cruelty. In fact, this pug looks quite proud to be giving his baby friend a ride around the patio!
The makeshift harness makes the photo all the more adorable! This baby probably had too much fun riding around on her dog, because here it looks like she is about to knock out. It was a good ride while it lasted! We just hope they wouldn't attempt this when she got a little older because the pup would probably not be able to handle that!
The Best Kind Of Hugs
Look at this precious photo of this baby hugging and kissing a kitten! It's true what they say: children are taught to love. This is a tender photo of a baby who shows the kitten the same amount of attachment he would to a stuffed animal—let's just hope that the baby doesn't actually think the kitten is a stuffed animal!
Research shows that it is actually healthy for babies to grow up in a home with animals. Not only are they taught love and care, they are also less likely to get sick when they get older since they are exposed to pet dander that their immune system learns to deal with at a young age.
A Heart To Heart
This photo comes courtesy of Reagandoodle, an Instagram account for an Australian Labradoodle that lives in Oregon. Here, Reagan and his "Little Buddy" are having a heart to heart conversation. We wonder what it could be about! Reagan and Little Buddy both met at 11 months old and have been best friends ever since.
Reagan's owner took on the young boy as a foster child and we're glad to see that this kid was welcomed into such a loving home with the best company! Their Instagram account documents the many adventures that the two have as they grow up together.
Friends Who Pray Together Stay Together
This is a precious photo of a boy and his pet Doberman. It looks like they are in some intense huddle, probably preparing for a riveting game of hide-and-seek. Or it looks like they are in some sort of prayer together, probably giving each other strength and love that can only be shared between a boy and his dog!
Either way, the heart-warming photo has certainly stuck a chord with us, as it truly depicts how close children grow to their animal companions, especially when they are friends from such a young age. Children who grow up with pets are shown true loyalty!
Unconditional Love
We love this photo of baby Patrick and Roxy from Pinterest! Newborns always have to have neck and back support, since they are unable to keep their heads up on their own at first. This loving pup is doing just that by supporting baby Patrick while he soundly sleeps.
The look in Roxy's eyes shows us that she may truly care for the new addition to the family and will do anything she can to be a loyal and protective companion of the baby. Patrick will grow up reassured that he will always have his faithful canine to support him no matter what!
Smooches!
Isn't this picture too cute?! This baby is probably being taught that kisses and cuddles are the way to go. Why not plant a kiss on her furry friend? Parents of older dogs who have new babies are often stressed about what might happen when the baby comes home from the hospital.
A baby's crying can be especially trying for dogs who are sensitive to noise. But you can alleviate the transition by showing your dog that having the baby around is a good thing. Parents in such a situation could give their dogs a treat or their favorite toys when the baby is around so that they know that the baby is not a threat.
Cuddle Buddies For Life
This precious photo shows a baby and puppy in the most adorable situation! Both the baby and the puppy are sound asleep, especially holding on to their teddy bears. While raising a newborn baby and a puppy sounds like a precarious situation, it can be done successfully if the parents know how to approach it.
Puppies and babies both have unsophisticated communication skills with their own species, let alone another! But a puppy can easily be trained to adapt to the presence of a baby and vice versa. When a puppy and baby are both raised in a loving environment, the result is absolutely beautiful.
Can't Go To Bed Without Each Other
This little one is so attached to the family's pet Husky that it looks ask if he can't go to sleep without him! This baby probably considers his furry friend to be his faithful companion, rather than choosing to grant that title to a stuffed toy.
These two look perfectly at peace sleeping with one another, the puppy doesn't even seem to mind that it is being held that tightly! How comforting! We know that there is no greater bond than the one that is depicted in this picture because what we see is the definition of closeness.
The Sweetest Friendship
Look at this precious little girl with her Golden Retriever! This is obviously staged, but the idea of putting the pals together in a washbin is too cute! This pup will probably be this girl's loyal protector as she grows older, even when she's a teenager.
Imagine how funny it would be to see the dog trying to protect her against a potential boyfriend! But one thing's for sure, this girl was taught love and kindness that all children are born with. She will grow up to love and respect not only all people that she meets, but all creatures as well!
A Warm Embrace
This photo comes courtesy of Pinterest. A young girl is warmly embracing her pet chihuahua, who looks like she is enjoying the embrace as well! Because chihuahuas are tiny dogs, they often consider themselves the babies of the family, which is why it might be an issue if an actual baby were to enter the picture.
They say that if a chihuahua sees their owner holding a baby, it will beg for the same amount of attention! But when the situation is handled properly and the chihuahua is on board with baby, they can end up being the best of friends.
Two Little Lambs
This is an adorable photo of a baby lamb and a baby human! They are probably meeting at a petting zoo and appear to be having the most cuddly encounter. Lambs are attractive to young children because they are so fluffy and small!
The lamb appears to be nuzzling this toddler, who looks like he enjoys it or is just tickled by the situation. We know we're certainly tickled just looking at this photo that is too cute for words! Children who are taken to petting zoos get to experience new kinds of animals outside of the domestic cat and dog.
Chickens And Children
This photo comes courtesy of Sheena, who runs a blog called The Little Red House. She actually has her own chickens that she raises with her family! While it may seem like chickens would be finicky birds to keep around children, it can actually be a great learning experience for the child — just be sure to have the child wash their hands thoroughly after holding the chicken!
This photo goes to show that children can love and care for all types of creatures if they are raised to do so. This little girl looks like she cares very much about her beautiful bird!
Bonding Starts Early
This little one is brand new. He's probably only a few days old, yet he already has a best friend. We're not sure who is more content here -- the baby or the dog. Both are very happy snuggling with one another on a comfy set of sheets.
We love how close the dog is to the infant. He couldn't get any closer! He has his face tight up against the little one's body. Everything about this photo is heart warming. Sometimes the love between an animal and a human is unbreakable. We think these two will be inseparable.
Feline Babysitter
This tiny infant is obviously still very new to this world. But he should be okay because he has a very special cat protector in his corner. Look at how the cat is very content to lay on top of the infant and make sure no one messes with him. This cat is making sure that everyone knows the baby is his responsibility.
And the infant probably likes it too because he feels secure and safe, just like he did in the womb. This pair will probably have a very close bond as they grow up together. They will likely spend many nights sleeping together.
Patient Playmate
The look on this dog's face is classic. He obviously isn't enjoying having his mouth manipulated, but he's dealing it with anyway because he loves his companion. The little girl is having a grand old time playing with her puppy's face. It's absolutely irresistible! They appear to be having some play time in the bedroom.
And for some reason, something about the dog's face made the little one want to grab it and squish it. We get it. Dogs are so fluffy, sometimes you can't help but squeeze them. And this little girl is having a delightful time with her pet.
Sleeping Buddies
This photo is great on so many levels. Look at the smile on the baby's face. This little one is absolutely delighted to be sharing a space with his kitty pal. And the cat is also very pleased to be cuddling with his human companion.
We love how the cat is pretty much hugging the baby with his giant paw. We're not sure whether the baby was placed on the couch first or whether the cat trotted over and inserted itself into the baby's space, but they found a way to snuggle up to one another pretty easily.
Easter Pals
This photo is fantastic. We love how the dog sat still long enough to let her picture be taken. After all, most dogs don't like having things on their heads. But this one is playing the game with his toddler human, who also has to be given some credit for sitting still for a picture.
She doesn't look exactly thrilled to have bunny ears on her head either! Both of them look like they're trying to embrace the Easter spirit. And we love the matching bunny bib on the infant's chest. This pair is both patient and absolutely adorable.
Perfect Match
Here are two peas in a pod. What's great about this pair is that they're exactly the same size. Both the baby and the puppy are standing up and looking out the window at whatever wonders in the yard are grabbing their attention. The little one is wearing adorable and colorful footie pajamas as she stands next to her canine pal.
You almost need to do a double take because the dog is acting so much like a person. We can't help but wonder what other cool adventures this kid and dog duo will encounter in the future.
Bunny Friend
While that may look like a stuffed animal, it's actually a real bunny. This little boy is very lucky to have such an unusual pet. Both the infant and the bunny look very content to sleep on their backs next to one another. Animals thrive on having a tribe.
And this baby is part of this bunny's tribe. The two of them are so cute as they settle down for an afternoon snooze. We can't decide which one is more huggable. Infants, of course, are delightful to handle. But the bunny has such soft fur! Guess we'll just have to hug them both.
Too Many Feet
Everything about this picture is awesome. First, the baby is cute as a button in her little seat. Second, the cat is trying to imitate his baby playmate but is failing in such a big way. The problem is that cats have four feet, and the seat only accommodates two. Yet the cat doesn't seem deterred by this minor problem.
Instead, the cat is doing its best to sit comfortably next to his human friend. What's even better is that the cat appears to be snoozing. How can that be comfortable? Well, cats have no problem sleeping in weird positions.
Canine Caretaker
The great thing about some dogs is that they have such a strong motherly instinct that it extends beyond the animal kingdom. This pup, who appears to be a Golden Retriever, is enamored with her infant friend. She may even think that the baby is hers!
See how the cute little bundle of joy is gently resting on the dog's body. And the dog is doting on the little one. She loves her so much that she is giving her a giant kiss! Some parents may be scared to put an infant so close to a dog. Yet this is one very protective relationship.
Babies All Around
Babies are some of the cutest things in the world. So are puppies. So when you put babies and puppies together, it's cuteness overload! Look at this adorable group. The infant seems pleased as punch to have three puppies around him. This picture is so adorable it's almost unbearable. The puppies seem to be enjoying snuggling up to the infant.
Maybe he's warm. Maybe's he's just soft and squeezable. Whatever the reason, this group seems very content to be laying down together and relaxing in a pile of warm and squishy pillows. What a great way to spend the morning.
The Perfect Pillow
This photo is great for so many reasons. First, let's give the dog some credit for his patience. His human has fallen fast asleep on him and is using him as a doggie pillow. Second, the dog is sucking on a pacifier!
Okay, it may not be the cleanest thing to do, so hopefully the parents sterilized it after returning it to the baby. But it is pretty darn adorable. Both the infant and the dog seem pretty content to cuddle up and take a nap together. The fact that the pup doubles as a pillow is just a bonus.
Canine Bodyguard
If you spotted this dog on the street, you may walk to the other side so as not to disturb it. This canine has a fierce look about him. And he obviously wants you to know that no one is messing with his baby. We love how the infant is completely content without a care in the world as her dog bodyguard keeps watch.
This baby is going to be okay because she has a canine companion who will always make sure she's safe. But you have to admit, the look on that dog's face is pretty scary. Don't mess with him!
Hugs For Everybody
Again, when you put babies and puppies together the results are heart warming. This little guy loves his puppies so much that he hugs all three of them at the same time. And puppies love being hugged so much, they can't help but press their tiny bodies against their human pal.
There's something so peaceful about this photo. It's clear that at the base of everything, what we all really need and want is love. And the love between these four is palpable. Wouldn't you love to start your day with hugs from a baby and three tiny puppies?
King Of The World
It's easy to tell who's boss here. This baby is on top of the world as he attempts to climb on top of his doggy companion and smile for the camera. We love how the dog seems completely unaffected by the baby tugging on his fur. This is definitely the start of a long friendship.
The pup is very tolerant, and the baby is very excited to have a canine companion. These two must be fun to watch as they play together at home. There's something amazing about such friendships. We bet these two probably take naps together as well.
Lovers Of The Outdoors
This duo is enjoying a sunny day outside. While some parents may be afraid to let their infant be so close to such a big dog, these parents are obviously very confident that their pup will protect their little one. Look at the smile on the baby's face. He is obviously very happy to be embraced by his furry friend.
And the dog is clearly making sure that the baby is safe in his paws. It must be nice to hang out on such a beautiful day on a blanket on the grass. This is the life. These two know the meaning of happiness.
Sleepy Time
As you know, yawns can be contagious. This picture proves the point perfectly. Both baby and dog are sitting side by side on a large comfy chair. And they're both letting us know that it's time for a nap. We love how the photographer captured a picture of them yawning at the exact same time.
We wish we could see subsequent shots because we're sure that the two of them snuggled up with one another to take an afternoon snooze. Both babies and dogs sleep a large portion of the day. So we think these two are probably perfect companions.
What Are You Looking At?
Wouldn't it be neat if babies could talk? Of course, we know what they'd say: I'm hungry, I'm tired, and change my diaper. That's all they do for the first few months of their lives. But it would be kind of neat to communicate with them.
Well, some kind of communication is going on here with this infant and his pug. We're not sure what either one of them is thinking, but they're obviously in a similar state of mind. The dog looks either concerned or confused, and the baby also looks baffled. These two have their own way of communicating.
Unlikely Playmates
Here's another example of a potentially scary big dog interacting lovingly with a tiny baby. Typically, German Shepherds are seen as guard dogs and police dogs with fierce temperaments.
However, they can also be extremely gentle and kind. When a dog is eating or chewing on a toy, it's usually not a good idea to be near their face. However, this little baby is kissing the canine's head while he is playing with his chew toy. He doesn't even seem very bothered by the intrusion. This is love. The dog is just mush in his baby's hands. We love it!
Hanging With The Homies
This is a really funny looking trio. The big dog must be used to being a pillow because he has no problem with the other two just hanging out around him. The baby is leaning back and looking very relaxed as he sucks his thumb and concentrates on something off-camera (perhaps a TV?) And the pug is just hilarious.
It looks as though he was caught in the act of doing something bad. It's just a typical Saturday afternoon, and they're hanging out in the rec room, chilling out and watching the tube. Can you get any more relaxed than that?
Time For A Walk
This dog probably isn't a Great Dane, but it looks like one because the baby looks so tiny next to him. It's a beautiful day and time to walk the dog. What's a baby to do but grab the leash and go outside! This pair is very cute.
We hope the baby didn't actually attempt to walk the dog because the minute a squirrel walked by the dog probably sprinted after it. But we get the point. The toddler and the canine are definitely best friends. And it won't take too many years before the baby can actually walk to dog by himself.
We Couldn't Complete Our List Without A Llama
Llamas are super adorable and little kids make us smile. Combine the two together and you are left with a super cute photo that will make you smile. This little girl not only played with a Llama, she nuzzled with it in a cute little Eskimo kiss type of moment.
We don't know if a Llama would be considered a house pet but after seeing this adorable moment we had to share it. If anything, this picture proves that children just want to take a moment out of their day to explore the world around them and discover new and amazing animals to play with.
