I was a single Mom when I had my son and my maltese, Casper, was about 5-6 years old. I think it was harder on him because he was older and didn't grow up around children - that's key.
However, despite that, he never was mean to Matthew or any other child in any way.
When I got home from work; I bundled up my son in his stroller - and together we walked Casper. I paid a neighbor to come over every day at lunch and let Casper out.
So I don't think starting a family is a barrier to having a dog. Me personally, I would like to have my dog a little out of the puppy stage AND housetrained, before my newborn came along . . just to make things easier.
But to make a blanket statement that the OP should not consider a dog . .
Yes, it will be more difficult but it's like anything else . . how much do you want it and how much time are you willing to give?
If you can answer these questions positively . . . then go for it! Maltese are generally considered more 'gentle mannered' than most terriers so that's another consideration with children.
I have a Westie that LOVES children . . but he grew up on a soccer field with little kids falling all over themselves to pet him, walk him . . . so he associates children with good things.
The OP will have to make sure their dog is socialized to children as a puppy. |