18/08/2022
DOGS AND CHILDREN.
Whether you have your own or meet the occasional pet in your neighborhood or the park, it’s important to help your kids learn how to behave around dogs. Young children should never interact with a dog without consent from the owner and very close adult supervision, even with the family dog.
If your child wants to interact with a dog, allow the dog to choose to do so rather than the child. If they approach the child looking relaxed and maybe nudging to engage with them, that’s a good sign.
As parents its paramount to monitor any interactions and intervene as soon as your dog shows the first sign that they are uncomfortable. Monitor them at all times and allow short, gentle interactions. Don’t let a child approach a dog or take food or a toy from them!
Dogs may find hugs and kisses stressful, especially if coming from a child whose body language cues they don’t understand. Teaching older children to be calm and quiet around dogs will help but young kids should always be a safe distance from dogs.
Safely introducing a dog or puppy to your family:
• It’s important to take things slowly and never leave them unattended with your children.
• Start by explaining to your family how they need to behave with a new dog and help your kids understand your dog/puppy’s behavior. With older children, discuss the feelings the dog may have in different situations, this helps build empathy.
• Introductions should be done in a calm, comfortable environment. Have your children sit quietly and bring the dog in to meet them. Ensure these experiences are positive for your dog/puppy and children by encouraging your child to throw treats on the floor for them. If your pet seems uncomfortable or stressed remove them from the situation and try again later when they are calm.
Socializing your puppy with children:
• If you have a new puppy, it’s important to let them interact with children of all ages as part of their socialization.
• Always reward your puppy for calm behavior with a treat or toy
• Always supervise your puppy with children and remove them from the situation if they are getting afraid or over-excited.
• Positive interactions will help your puppy feel less afraid of children and as an adult dog they will be relaxed being around children. It’s an essential step in their training.
Read on about keeping children safe around dogs here:
https://tnrtrust.org/dogs-and-children/
excerpt from pdsa.org.uk
infographic by rspca.org.uk