Child Safety With Family Dogs
It’s every parent’s nightmare: the faithful family dog turned against their children. Even though children and dogs usually get along like the best of friends, children can sometimes push the wrong buttons. Learn what you need to teach children about bonding and playing with dogs, and when it’s too early for a child to start training or start walking the family dog.
Step 1: Relationships
Kids and dogs go together just like ice cream and apple pie. We know that dogs can teach children about love, caring and responsibility.
It's up to you as the parent to make sure the relationship remains safe and positive. A child's relationship with a dog should be based on mutual respect, similar to a brother - sister relationship.
Step 2: New Tricks
Children will sometimes push a dog a little too far. Hugging is a no-no, so is rough play, and loud noises. Allowing your child to teach a dog new tricks is a great way to build a strong, healthy relationship, just make sure there's a parent supervising- and children over the age of five are ready to start training.
Step 3: Games
Buddy, want to play hide and seek? A fun game kids can play is hide and seek. Restrain your dog and have the child hide somewhere in the house. Have the child call it so the dog will find them. When your dog discovers your child have them reward them with praise and treats.
Step 4: Dog Challenge
Here are some other tips: don't let kids under ten walk a dog, they cannot control the dog properly if an altercation occurs. No locking eyes between kids and dogs, this can be seen as a challenge and end up in a facial injury. If your dog is territorial over possessions see a behaviorist immediately.
Step 5: Gifts
Giving your child the companionship of a dog is one of the greatest gifts you can give them. Follow these tips and you'll see your child forming a safe bond they'll remember for a lifetime.
