Giving a dog as a gift is seldom a good idea. Especially when it is a surprise. This is always about the emotions of humans and fails to take into consideration what is good for the dog. This is especially true for children. When you give someone a dog you can never guarantee that the dog will “choose” that person. If the dog does not choose them the person will have little interest in the dog. Do not get a child a dog to teach responsibility, do that with something that does not have a heartbeat. Time and time again I have also seen couples, especially during the infatuation period get a dog as a substitute for a child. This never turns out good for the dog. There are lots of things to consider when getting a dog for yourself, much more when you give it to someone else. Think logically and not emotionally, you owe it to the dog. The rescues will appreciate it too.