Should one keep a dog as a pet with little kids at home?

I think dogs (and pets in general) are great to have around kids. Not only are they fun and adorable, they teach kids responsibility -- of taking care of another life. Pets can also teach children patience; training a dog can be difficult and involving your child will help them be more patient and forgiving. To add to that, pets teach kids to be compassionate. There's a famous Gandhi saying that states that "the greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated". Studies have shown that children who grew up with pets do have higher levels of EQ. As long as your family has the means to provide, care, protect and welcome a pet into your home, by all means, do so. There are plenty of cats, dogs etc waiting to be adopted :) But remember, a pet is a life-long responsibility, if you are not in the means to care for one, then best to reconsider.