Cats are not always known to be the cuddliest creatures, but some will make an exception for their favorite humans. This little girl and her cat show that pets are an integral part of family life. For a child, there is often nothing better than sharing a cuddly moment with their favorite four-legged friend.

Pets bring an uncomplicated innocence and affection that can stay with us for a lifetime. They can even improve our health! Studies have shown that having pets can help children avoid asthma as they grow older and reduce anxiety.

This furry, gentle giant lets his little friend take a nap right on his back! No blanket needed when she has her four-legged protector right next to her.

In fact, it’s often the biggest dogs in the family who are the most affectionate and protective of the smallest of family members. Big, small, or somewhere in between, there is no denying that dogs are simply the best!

Cats have their way of showing affection, and research claims that when cats nuzzle their owners, it means they are marking them to claim them as their own.

The presence of a pet offers us comfort, bring us joy, and reminds us even at a very young age that you don’t also have to be the same species to have a friend that’s there when you need them. What would our lives be without our pets?

Maybe they sense the innocence or helplessness, but many dogs bond to a baby even before he or she is born. Though a new baby is a big adjustment for a pet, often, the baby can become their new best friend.

After all, babies are closer in size and at home more often, which can create a more natural bond. The family dog in this picture looks like he’s hanging out in his favorite place on earth, just being with his little human. This baby and his cuddly pug look like they will be close for years to come!

Mimicry is a big part of the family pet and child relationship. The same curiosity and playfulness that follows children also follow animals. Maybe that’s why they often get along so well and why there is so much affection between them. Having a pet not only teaches kids responsibility and how to care for another life, but pets also show them how to give and receive love unconditionally.

In fact, the unconditional love a child experiences from their pets can create some of the most meaningful childhood memories that can carry into adulthood. There is no doubt that pets make a valuable impact on our lives.

Big dogs can make the best family pets and are sometimes a perfect resting place for kids! When this toddler leaned back into her big, furry best friend, she knew he wouldn’t mind supporting her.

Dogs can sometimes be more patient with kids and willing to let them do things that they may not let other people do. This little girl knows that, no matter what, she will always have someone to lean on.

This baby had a fun Christmas surprise under the tree! The kitten, on the other hand, looks like he is ready to find somewhere else to explore.

While dogs are usually known to be the more patient and tolerant pets, cats can also learn to be patient with children, and hopefully, this kitten will learn fast. No doubt, as these two grow together, they will become the best playmates.

Some family dogs have a hard time adjusting to a small child or a new baby, but others can quickly become the watchful protector of their tiny human friends. These two probably already have a special relationship judging by how they keep a right eye on each other.

Someday soon, these friends will be able to go on many adventures, but for right now, they simply enjoy being side-by-side.

One of the ways kids and pets can relate is how they don’t always like bath time! In some cases, kids (and pets) do enjoy being in the water, which only makes being together that much more fun, especially during bath time.

Usually, dogs will follow you anywhere and everywhere; their world is you, even when you’re in the bathroom. Combine that loyalty with curiosity with love for the water, and you get the two buddies in this photo!

This little guy and his four-legged friend share some fun in the sun by cooling off in the sprinkler. Spending time outside is refreshing for the soul, and animals know this too!

In fact, one of the few times we lose their attention is when they explore the outdoors! However, these friends are tied together and even have the same expression on their faces as they cool off in the summer heat.

Cats are known for their fierce independence, and well, sometimes their lack of patience when it comes to prolonged physical affection. But this unique cat has found his faithful partner and is at peace resting in their small arms.

This child is doing a fantastic job of gently cradling the cat in his arms as they swing together. Sometimes, when it comes to the littlest in the family, even the most particular pets are willing to make an exception.

A friend is someone you can lean on at all times, and you know you’ve found a trusted friend when you can rest your head on them and take a snooze. These nap buddies look like they make napping a regular part of their time together!

Usually, the family pet sleeps next to the person in the family that they’re closest to, and these two look inseparable!

This cat certainly doesn’t look like he is enjoying himself. That being said, he is a tolerant, furry friend to this little girl. If they’ve learned how to be long-suffering like this feline, family pets that aren’t the most affectionate can still make excellent companions for kids.

The little girl who’s holding him is undoubtedly delighted with her furry pal, and he might be too but just isn’t good at showing it!

Yet another gentle giant, this tough-looking canine, is willing to do anything for this little girl, even if that means wearing a headband! This pair seems to understand each other, play together well, and enjoy each other’s company, no matter what they’re doing.

This picture depicts perfectly that children and their pets share a special bond that only continues to grow over time as they get to know each other better.

Not one to cry over spilled milk, this little girl enlisted the help of her three feline friends to help her clean up the mess, and they certainly didn’t mind.

While we don’t know how long it was until the little girl’s parents tried to stop her from pretending to be a cat and drinking milk off from the floor, it’s nice that she had three others she could count on to help her out. The more, the merrier!

This baby decided to give his adorable, wrinkly puppy a full-on kiss, and the puppy was right there waiting for it! Since they both are babies, they will get to explore, learn, play, and grow up together.

Watching the two grow up together is one of the many reasons why owning a pet is so much fun with a baby at home.

This kitten and his baby friend must have had a long day of playing together as they are both catching some z’s. Having a nap with your furry friend will undoubtedly bring you closer together.

If these two were not bonded before, they will be now. It is a priceless experience to watch a child and a pet find comfort in each other’s arms.

It used to be an old suspicion that cats would “steal breath” from a sleeping child. In reality, they just probably wanted to be close to those they liked best. Cats are notorious for hopping into bed with their humans and sleeping up near their heads or chest.

This baby doesn’t even need a blanket because they have a cuddly little cat to keep them warm. Whether they met not that long ago or are part of the same family, this cat and baby will probably be close for years to come!

Feeding a dog, picking up after it, and all the other responsibilities that come with owning a family pet is a lot of work. However, as soon as they are old enough, kids usually want to be a part of caring for the animals in the family. Nearly every dog loves to go on a walk so they can chase after squirrels, meet new friends, and just explore the world outside the home.

This intelligent little child is ready to take their strong-looking bulldog for a walk. It can feel like quite an accomplishment for a child when they take their four-legged pal for their much-needed stroll outside. Hopefully, the dog won’t end up taking her for a walk!

For a child, there are few things more exciting than coming home to a puppy. And you couldn’t ask for a more heart-warming picture than this boy and his golden retriever puppies cuddled together in a basket.

When they are not snuggled together, getting some much-needed rest, they are probably running around the house and playing together. Soon these puppies won’t be able to fit together with their friend in a basket, so they better enjoy it while they can!

This tiny kitten is getting a lot of love from her little girl, and it looks like she has learned how to be very gentle with her small companion. The kitten looks like she also is learning how to enjoy receiving affection and interact with her mini master. Because they are both so well-behaved, they will undoubtedly have a strong friendship in the years to come!

Dogs have so many great qualities; with their loyalty, unconditional love, and protective instincts, it’s not surprising that they’re called “man’s best friend.” Here we have “man’s best friend” as a babysitter! This four-legged guardian looks like she is taking her responsibility very seriously.

This baby girl knew that she was in good paws when she decided to plop down and take a snooze next to her watchdog.

Cats and dogs aren’t the only pets on our heart-melting list! Though they are not a common household pet, ducks can form a bond with their human caregivers, and it looks like this duckling has already found that with this little guy. Don’t underestimate the joy ducks can bring as a pet.

Domesticated ducks are curious about their humans and can be trained to do tricks, socialize, play with toys, and follow you around. Given the time and training, they can become your feathered friend forever!

Horses are incredible creatures. They are sturdy, majestic, and although they can be skittish around humans, if they are adequately trained, they can even become therapy animals. This gentle boy seems to have created a trusted bond with this horse.

Due to their size and strength, horses can also be intimidating to kids too, but if they are trained to be gentle, they can become a way for kids to overcome their fears and even find a new friend!

This newborn’s parents are lucky to have such an attentive and sweet-natured dog. The new baby is barely the size of this Labrador’s head, but the two already look like they are going to be best friends.

While there may have been some adjustments to the new family member at first, the Labrador looks like he has adapted very well and isn’t going to let the baby out of his sight! We’re sure that this dog will be a good guardian for a long, long time.

They say that dogs can end up looking like their owners, and these two are even dressed the same! It takes a very good-natured dog to let a little girl dress them up and also look like they are enjoying themselves.

This dog is probably used to being dressed up but doesn’t mind it because it means he gets to spend more time with his best friend!

Maybe this little girl wanted a pony, but her pug will do just fine! This patient little pug seems very content being the mode of transportation for his little master.

The two probably have a lot of fun together playing make-believe or going on other adventures. She better enjoy taking her pug for a spin while she can before she gets too big to ride him!

A new toy can never match the joy a pet brings to a child. This little boy would rather have nothing else in his arms than his kitten. Pets have many benefits that go beyond instilling a sense of responsibility. Research shows that it is healthy for kids to grow up in a home with animals.

Not only are they taught to love and care, but they are also less likely to get sick when they get older. This is because they are exposed to pet dander that can help their immune system become more influential at a young age.

Even a tough-looking guard dog (like the Doberman in this photo) will show a softer side for their special pal. With what looks like a hug shared between the two, it’s undeniable that they have an exceptional bond that only a kid and their dog can share.

The impact that pets leave on our hearts truly stays with us for the rest of our lives!

Is there anything better than a supportive friend? A new baby always needs support for their delicate frame, and this little one couldn’t have found a better place to rest their head.

With the loyalty, love, and serenity in this dog’s eyes, it’s clear there’s no place they’d rather be. And as this child grows up, they know that their canine will be there for them in the years to come.

Small children need to learn how to be gentle with the family pets, and this little girl has certainly learned well. The older dog may have had to adjust to the baby when she first came home, but now the two look like they get along really well!

As long as the parents can help the pet adjust to a new, unpredictable little life in the house, there’s no reason why they can’t be good friends like the two in this photo.

This little boy skipped the teddy bear and got himself a living snuggle buddy instead. The two are entirely at peace, sleeping nestled right in front of each other. The little puppy doesn’t even seem to mind that it is being held that tightly!

What a pleasant thought that this little boy can come home to the warm cuddles of his sweet puppy; that’s undoubtedly a boy’s best friend.

A photo to be remembered forever is this little girl and her loyal companion. Golden Retrievers are the third most famous dog breed. Known for their excellent temperament, affectionate behavior, and how easy they are to train, they make some of the best family pets.

It’s evident in this picture that this dog is well-loved by his little girl and certainly by the whole family too.

Chihuahuas usually look pretty vulnerable in this vast big world, but this tiny fella has a safe spot in his little girl’s arms. The look on his face is of complete security and relaxation. Some dogs might be used to being the center of the most care and attention, but when a baby comes, they can become jealous.

Usually, this jealousy dissipates as the child grows up, and (as you can see in this photo), the family dog can still get just as much if not even more love and attention.

You may not have expected to see a lamb on the list of child-pet friendships, but lambs can be very gentle and social creatures. They certainly are appealing to kids because of their sweet disposition and small, fluffy appearance.

The lamb appears to be nuzzling this toddler, who looks like he is enjoying every second. The lamb might be at a petting zoo, but the little child will certainly come back to see his new friend!

Another unexpected pet-child friendship is between this girl and her calf. Someday this creature will be more challenging to cuddle, but for now, she is going to take all the love she can get! Baby farm animals like calves are not only fun and interesting for kids but also help them learn more about agriculture and other animals outside of what is typically called a “family pet.”

When children get to see essential animals like this calf, they are taught that all lives are precious and that every living creature has a value on this earth.

Chickens are known for the eggs they provide, the noise they make, and…being good pets? They may not be as affectionate as a dog or as attentive as a cat, but chickens can still be a lot of fun to have as pets. They can be easy to care for, have a lot of character, and can get used to being held.

While it may seem like chickens would be finicky birds to keep around children, it can be a great learning experience for the child. This little girl looks like she cares for and enjoys her chicken and probably, the eggs she provides too!

Yet another photo of a sweet dog and his little buddy. He’s probably only a few days old, yet he already has a best friend who couldn’t get any closer if he tried! Both seem very happy, snuggling up with one another on a comfy set of sheets.

This photo just conveys warmth, comfort, and, best of all, friendship. The love between an animal and a human is unbreakable, and there’s certainly a lot of love between these two.

This brand-new baby isn’t going anywhere with his feline friend keeping a right eye on him! This cat is making sure that everyone knows the baby is his responsibility.

Probably reminiscent of the womb, the infant must enjoy the warmth and security that the cat’s nearness brings. This pair will likely have a very close bond as they snuggle and grow up together.

The very image of gentleness, this dog looks like he is used to having little hands on his face. Labrador Retrievers are still the number one dog breed, and it’s clear why with their gentleness and affectionate behavior.

Babies are insatiably curious, and this little girl is probably wondering what’s under her friend’s unusual-looking mouth. We get it; dogs are pretty irresistible!

Caught in the middle of a hug, this baby couldn’t help but toss a smile at the camera. There is so much delight in this photo as these two just enjoy being cuddled together.

Cats can be very nurturing animals, and this one is going to make sure his little buddy stays close to him.

While he may not be sure about wearing the rabbit ears, this dog decided to let his humans make him a bunny for this photo. But his toddler friend doesn’t look like she like the bunny ears either!

These two must get along well, especially to be in the picture together, though they’d probably rather be doing nearly anything else.

Here are two peas in a pod; both of them even look like they are wearing footie pajamas! You almost need to do a double-take because the dog is acting so much like a person. Both babies and animals are curious about the world around them and eager to explore different things.

We can’t help but wonder what other cool adventures this kid and dog duo will encounter in the future. They must love discovering everything together.

Few creatures convey such a sense of adorable innocence as a bunny. Combine the fluffy rabbit with this snuggly baby boy in a bunny hat, and this picture is too cute to handle! Rabbits are brilliant animals, have distinct personalities, and can be housetrained.

This little boy is fortunate to have such a unique pet. Both the infant and the bunny look very content to sleep on their backs next to one another!

It takes a very docile cat to agree to sit in a seat like this! This kind of kitty is doing his best to sit comfortably next to his tiny human. But what’s even better is that, though it looks pretty challenging, the cat appears to be taking a nap.

Cats are known for their incredible resilience and ability to nap nearly anywhere, and this one must also be remembered for his great personality.

Some dogs have especially strong nurturing instincts that extend beyond taking care of their puppies. This Golden Retriever is entirely captivated by her infant friend.

She is even cleaning them like this is her puppy; how sweet! This dog will probably follow this child around wherever they go as they get older.

This dog deserves a lot of credit for his patience in acting as a living pillow. His little human has fallen fast asleep and has found a perfect spot to rest his head. At least the dog seems to be enjoying it, along with getting to chew on the baby’s pacifier.

Both the infant and the dog seem pretty content to cuddle up and take a nap together. It appears to be an even trade as the baby gets his pillow, and the dog gets his pacifier.

No one is coming near this young one unless his bodyguard says it’s ok! This intimidating canine is so gentle around the newest member of his family but wants you to know that nothing is going to happen to this baby.

The infant is entirely at ease with her dog at her side, and it looks like she is going to have a great protector for years to come.

There are so much joy and satisfaction in this photo! What unimaginable fun this little guy must be having with three puppies to play with.

Affection from loved ones is so important for both people and animals, and these four are getting their dose for the day. Wouldn’t you like to start your day with hugs from these three little guys?

The smiles say it all! This baby is on top of the world as he endeavors to climb on top of his doggy companion, tossing a laugh at the camera. Some dogs will do just about anything for their beloved humans, and this dog is more than willing to be this baby’s jungle gym.

How fun it must be to watch these two as they play together at home. This is the start of a long and special friendship.

Best buddies, this duo is enjoying a sunny day outside. There’s nothing like a hug from your friend; just look at the smile on the baby’s face. It’s always good to get some fresh air and what better way than with your best friend?

The baby is delighted to be out in the sunshine and embraced by his doggy; this is the life!

They say yawns are contagious, and this picture proves the point entirely. Both baby and dog are sitting side-by-side on a large comfy chair; let us know that it’s time for a nap.

Another similarity between dogs and babies is that they both sleep a lot during the day. And it looks like these two pals are ready for some much-needed shut-eye.

Babies and dogs, of course, have minimal communication, but it looks like this pug is either startled by his baby friend or ready for playtime!

The baby seems curious about his puppy’s expression and, though it’s not clear what either of them is thinking, they are both focused on each other.

German Shepherds are an incredible dog breed. They are versatile and intelligent and are not only used for herding sheep but also in the military and by police.

In a family setting, German Shepherds are usually seen as guard dogs, but this one is perfectly gentle with the infant by his side. German Shepherds can make excellent dogs for families with kids and, of course, great protectors too.

Friends come in all shapes and sizes! What a relaxing scene as these three amigos look so content hanging together. This little girl has a little friend close to her size and a big friend to lean on when she needs a place to rest her head.

These three look like they are taking an in-between break playtime, and it certainly would be fun to watch them all play together.

This little boy has probably just learned to walk not too long ago and could use some practice walking with his giant friend, but he is going to need some help! The dog looks like he is patiently waiting for mom or dad to grab the leash so he doesn’t drag his companion around.

In the meantime, it might be more helpful for the baby to take a ride on his dog’s back, but it won’t be too long before he gets to walk his lanky pal by himself.

Llamas are known to be relatively easy to care for, gentle, and even affectionate. They are becoming more popular as pets, and some people also compare them to dogs! As they nuzzle close to each other, this little girl and her curious baby llama look like they have created a unique friendship.

This picture proves that many different types of animals can bring unexpected joy and interest to our lives.

There’s nothing like watching these two adorable creatures growing up together. The bond between an owner and their pet is significant, but there’s just something so unbelievably special about the bond between a little human and their furry friend.

This little weiner dog and his hooman are BFFs; there’s no doubt about that. We’d also like to direct your attention to what a stunning photo this is on top of the cuteness overload.

This furry brindle babe is keeping watch of the very newest addition to the family. Baby doesn’t know it yet, but he has the good fortune of having his best friend also play the role of keeper.

No need to explain to our four-legged friend, this tiny bundle of joy is most obviously precious cargo. That pupper will no doubt be protecting this baby for years to come, and eventually, the baby will be able to run, play and hike with his best bodyguard.

As the saying goes, baby see, baby do….well, that’s not quite the saying, but you get the point. This curious cat is dying to know what the deal is on the other side of that door, and their tiny human friend is right there with them.

When it comes to getting into mischief, cats are the sneakiest! This devious kitty is teaching its baby buddy exactly how to be sneaky and who knows? Maybe along the way, kitty will teach her how to crawl!

Name something that looks more comfortable…..we’ll wait. Let us count the ways. One, This furry backrest is the absolutely perfect size for the tiny tot to lounge comfortably.

Two, how much better does it get than warmth and softness for the ultimate relaxation session? Three, these two look absolutely inseparable. There’s nothing like a furry best friend to give you the perfect place to lean and keep watch during TV time.

Now whoever said swinging is one a person, or rather, one creature activity? This blonde babe just loves her kitty so so much that she wants it with her even when she’s on the swing!

Normally, we’d be skeptical as to whether a cat would be willing to chill so calmly on a swing, but we would be underestimating the bond these two have. It seems the trust this cat has for her favorite tiny friend is beyond, and we are here for it!

These two babes are brand new to the world and brand new to each other as well. Surely they will come to be best buddies, but in the meantime, they have to check each other out.

We’d like to take a moment and ask you to take a good hard look at the fluffy chonk that is that Chow Chow puppy. We’d imagine it won’t be long before these two are expert cuddlers, and frankly, we won’t settle for less than an updated cuddle picture to prove it.

This dalmatian is absolutely certain that this tiny “dalmatian” is now its responsibility, and it must be protected at all costs. The cuteness level of the matching dalmatian onesie has us absolutely losing our minds.

If any of you have seen 101 Dalmatians, then you know that Perdi and Pongo were the ultimate dog parents, so we have high hopes for this doggo. Here’s the thing though, do they make matching dog onesies for adult size people? We’re, um, asking for a friend…

We are completely overwhelmed by the level of cuteness in this photo. That baby is so so tiny and squidgy we absolutely must squeeze him. How on earth could this puppy and this human be the same size.

We can’t handle it! Is it just us, or do these two little guys kinda bear a resemblance? Either way, it should be illegal for something this adorable to even exist!

It would seem that these two aren’t quite sure what to make of each other. This small babe isn’t 100% sure about this furry giant, and pupper can’t wrap his head around this tiny, autonomous toy.

Little do they know they are going to quickly become besties. There’s nothing they can do about it, it’s their fate, and they’ll just have to let it play out.

Don’t deny it; we all know people-watching is a universally loved activity, even in the animal kingdom! This teensy, tiny, little bebe has only just entered this world, but her big brother is totally happy to have the company.

After all these years staring out the window at the people/snow/rain, whatever might be going on out there, by himself, he can finally impart all his window wisdom on the next generation.

There’s absolutely nothing that compares to close cuddles with your favorite furry friends. Alliteration aside, These two clearly have a super special bond.

There’s no doubt in our minds that these two will be best of buds for a long, long time. One day, when baby is old enough, she can even let the cat have a shot at that lazy pointer he’s always been dying to try out. But like, just look at them! It’s clearly the ultimate snuggle sesh.

Even this Saint Bernard is about three times the size of his human friend, it absolutely doesn’t deter her from sending lots of love and kisses his way.

Yes, it’s true she’s small enough to ride him like a pony, or rather he’s big enough for her to ride him like a pony,  but family is family regardless of size, amount of fur, or amount of slobber.

This is a most majestic Husky indeed. The perfect fur. The gaze off into the distance. It’s no wonder this little girl wholeheartedly trusts her Husky.

This dynamic duo seems like they would do anything together. Just a little bit longer, and these two can go on some epic hikes! But for now, they’ll have to just settle on hugs and snuggles, which, if you ask us, is just as good.

We are incapable of containing ourselves over this tiny human and tiny doggo napping peacefully in a doggy bed.

One day in the not-so-distant future, that little Shepherd is going to be bigger than his human brother, and then again, in the not-so-distant future after that, the baby will once again be bigger than doggo. It’s quite a cycle. But for now, we say, they must be protected at all costs!

This pug puddle is actually too much for us to even handle. No doubt that these little bubbies consider baby just another one of them.

The number of squishy cheeks and wrinkles in this picture are overwhelming, and so we ask, where on earth can we immediately get a newborn and a pile of pug pups. Because let’s be honest, who doesn’t want a pug puppy cuddle puddle in their life?

There are few things on this earth cuter than baby bunnies…except maybe a baby bunny getting a kiss from an adorable little girl!  These two are the picture-perfect pair.

We’d like to bet little Peter Cottontail here is fairly used to getting all kinds of affection from his tiny human friend.

Literally, please stop everything you’re doing and look at the absolute perfection that is this little baby hugging this tiny goat. Have you ever in your life seen a more photogenic pair?

We certainly haven’t…And furthermore, how dare they put a little flower in her hair! It’s too cute; we cannot handle it. Thanks, bye.

This little kitty definitely has never heard of personal space. Sure, the baby may be a heavy sleeper, but kitty will never miss an opportunity to rest exactly on top of the tiny babe.

Although her little human friend isn’t capable of petting her, yet, she will have to be satisfied with cuddles.

This senior pup will never miss the chance to show her human just how much he loves her. There’s nothing like puppy kisses, and it seems to us that baby loves the pup just as much!

As far as baby is concerned, this furry friend is more like a big brother than a pet!