The bond between dogs and kids is a heartwarming one, filled with shared moments of joy, playfulness, and unconditional love. However, ensuring a safe and harmonious relationship between these two requires careful consideration and understanding. Whether you're introducing a dog to your family or helping your child interact with a dog, here are some need-to-know tips to foster a positive connection between these furry companions and your little ones.
1. Breed Matters
When considering bringing a dog into a household with children, it's essential to choose a breed that's known for being gentle, patient, and friendly. Breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Beagles, and Poodles are often great choices for families with kids due to their temperament and compatibility.
Also be aware that different breeds will react to kids in different ways. Collies, for example, find the excess movement and noise more challenging than dogs like Staffordshire Terriers, who tend to dote on and take care of small children, thus earning the nickname "nanny dogs". Large dogs like German Shepherd and Dobermans generally make great dogs with children, but just based on their size may inadvertently hurt them by getting up quickly or knocking them over. Researching your breed and how they are likely to interact with your kids is as important as the dog's individual personality.
2. Your Child's Age Matters
Dogs view infants in a different way to noisy babies, and differently again when they start crawling, walking, talking and communicating and as they grow. Some dogs may feel threatened or nervous around your young baby or toddler, but may love your child once they are walking and talking. I had a Collie, for example, who was very uncomfortable with my child until she could play with her, throw balls for her and help in giving her food. She went from space guarding and not wanting to interact with her at all, to actively seeking her out with a ball in her mouth. Keep in mind that as your child grows and changes, your dog's view on them will change too.
3. Teach Proper Interactions Between Dogs and Kids
Both children and dogs need to learn how to interact safely and respectfully. Teach your child to approach a dog calmly, extend their hand for the dog to sniff before attempting to pet, and avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could startle the dog. Teach them to always ask the owners permission before petting a strange dog, and teach them about dog body language, so that they know when the dog is becoming uncomfortable.
Likewise, educate your dog on how to behave around children, rewarding calm behaviour and discouraging jumping or nipping. You can also periodically give your child a treat to feed to your dog, ensuring that your dog associates good things when your child walks up to them.
4. Supervise All Interactions
Supervision is crucial whenever dogs and kids are interacting. No matter how well-behaved a dog is, unexpected situations can arise. Always keep an eye on their interactions and intervene if either the dog or the child seems uncomfortable or agitated. Even without any aggression, your dog could get up suddenly and knock your child down, or snap for a toy that's been thrown and accidentally catch a finger in between their teeth. Supervision is crucial to ensure harmonious relationships between your dogs and kids.
5. Establish Boundaries
Set clear boundaries for both your dog and your child. Teach your child not to disturb the dog while it's eating, sleeping, or chewing on a toy. Similarly, train your dog to respect your child's personal space and belongings.
6. Socialise Early
Exposing your dog to different people, environments, and situations from a young age can help them develop a well-adjusted and sociable temperament. This is especially important if you have or plan to have children in the household. Finding a breeder who has children of their own can go a long way towards early socialisation, and is a massive bonus if you have small kids in the house.
7. Provide a Safe Retreat
Dogs, like people, need their space sometimes. Make sure your dog has a designated area where they can retreat to if they want a break from the hustle and bustle of family life. Teach your child to respect this space and not bother the dog when they're in their retreat spot. Crates can be a wonderful way of providing your dog with their own personal haven, but even a bed in a separate room would be a good step in the right direction.
8. Teach Gentle Play
Teach your child to play gently with the dog, avoiding roughhousing or pulling on their ears, poking their eyes or yanking on their tail. Encourage games that promote cooperation and bonding, such as fetch or hide-and-seek.
9. Regular Exercise
Both dogs and kids benefit from regular exercise. Engage in activities that involve both, such as family walks or trips to the park. This not only helps burn off energy but also strengthens the bond between them.
10. Basic Training
Basic obedience training for your dog is a must. Commands like sit, stay, and come can be crucial in ensuring your dog listens and follows instructions, enhancing safety around kids. Teaching basic manners like not taking food out of your child's hands can also go a long way in preventing tear-filled episodes as Fido inadvertently steals their ice cream or cookie.
11. Lead by Example
Children learn by observing, so make sure you're modelling the behaviour that you want them to display around dogs. Show them how to be patient, kind, and considerate towards animals.
Conclusion
Dogs and kids can form incredible, lifelong friendships when the right precautions and considerations are taken. By choosing the right breed, teaching proper interaction, and fostering a safe and respectful environment, you can ensure that your children and your four-legged family members coexist harmoniously, creating beautiful memories together. Always remember that patience, supervision, and education are the keys to a successful and loving relationship between dogs and kids.
Comments