Unique Kids and Dog Bonding Stories
There’s something magical about a relationship between a child and a dog. To a child, a dog isn’t just a four-legged companion, it’s also a partner in crime when their imaginations transport the two into a world where they must flee from dinosaurs or shoot aliens with highly advanced laser-bazookas. Having a faithful furry friend by their side teaches a child what true companionship looks like. Whether it’s playtime or bathtime, there is no friend more honest, patient or nurturing as your four-legged best friend. The relationship between a child and animal is also purely adorable. Get your “Awwwww’s” ready for these incredible stories of children with unique bonds with their dogs.
1. Julian and Max
Julian Becker, aged 5, and his giant Newfoundland bestie Max, are inseparable. Julian’s mother Stasha noticed the special friendship between the two, and decided to capture it by taking daily snapshots of the pair before school in Whidbey Island, WA. As the props and costumes used became more elaborate, this adorable duo quickly become an internet sensation. Beyond going viral, these photos were also a great way for the family to keep in touch as Julian’s father is away frequently as a U.S. Navy officer. Visit here to view some of the other creative costumes and poses!
2. Owen and Haatchi
Owen Howkins and his giant three-legged Anatolian shepherd Haatchi are like two peas in a pod. They both have persevered through unthinkable pain; Owen suffers from Schwartz-Jampel syndrome, a disease which causes his muscles to tense up permanently and restricts movement, and Haatchi was hit by a train and lost his hind leg and tail. When they were brought together, it was like a match made in heaven. The deep and meaningful understanding they had for each other changed their lives and the lives of those around them. In an interview with Life with Dogs, Owen revealed, “When I saw Haatchi and saw how strong he was, even though he only had three legs, I became stronger myself. I love him so much.”
3. Cassidy and Trixie
Dogs are absolutely free of judgment, which makes them such prime companions to people of all different shapes and sizes. Cassidy Dufault, a vivacious girl who has autism, struggled in social situations because other children would treat her differently. Now, with Trixie by her side, she doesn’t ever need to worry about feeling lonely. She knows Trixie will never judge her or treat her differently and he has become her constant companion. The patient and kind Labrador Retriever has improved Cassidy’s quality of life substantially, helping Cassidy build confidence and improve her attitude towards life. This is a heartwarming example of love going hand in paw with happiness!
4. Tasuku and Muu
Instagram blew up the day that Tasuku and Muu made themselves known. This BFF pair from Japan are attached at the hip. In an attempt to capture their unique bond, his mother began posting daily photos of the Japanese bowl-cut-rockin’s boy and his Frenchie. These daily snippets of their lives invite you into one of the most beautiful and tender child-dog relationships of all time. With over 208,000 followers on Instagram, it’s no question that the love these two share is something that everyone wants a piece of.
5. Lucas and Juno
Four-year-old Lucas Hembree was diagnosed with Sanfilippo syndrome, which is a terminal illness that will eventually take away his ability to speak, walk, and eat. He was even denied a service dog due to Lucas’ deteriorating state. Oddly, this may have been a blessing in disguise because it led the Hembrees to bring home Juno, a gentle Belgian Malinoise. Rescued only days before being euthanized, Juno bonded instantly with Lucas. Juno has been actively keeping Lucas safe by constantly watching over him and keeping him calm. It’s difficult to see the two of them together and not believe that fate had something to do with it. You can catch up with Lucas and Juno on Facebook here.