My children were 8 and 10 when we got Tatum but I already had a toy poodle when they were born. I think having a small dog at that age was wonderful for them. They were taught how to respect animals by having one in their daily lives.
On the other hand, my nephews are sheer terror for Tatum. She likes to run and play but the boys are so loud and try to lunge for her, which she doesn't like. I have to always be on them to be nice to her and then she'll play with them. They have been raised with a big lab though so are not used to being gentle with little dogs.
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~ Angie |