Puppies and Small Children: Having Fun Safely

If you’re ever having a rough day, Google “babies and puppies” and watch the videos that pop up. We promise you, your mood will be instantly lifted. 

Puppies and small children are a perfect match, both new to the world, figuring out everything around them by exploring, playing, falling down and getting back up again. So what’s the best way to maintain a safe environment for both your 2- and 4-legged kids? Through their work with countless families, our pet experts have some recommendations.

• Teach your child how to properly touch the puppy. Dogs can feel threatened when grabbed from behind or around the neck. Most also dislike being pet on the top of the head, which is usually the first place a small hand reaches. Instead, show your child how to gently pat or scratch the puppy on their chest, chin, or back.
• Emphasize that a sleeping puppy or dog should be left to snooze. At the very least, startling them awake might make them jump suddenly, which can topple a small child.
• Begin training your puppy early to obey basic commands like “Sit”, “Stay”, and “Come”. Not only will this establish voice control, it also presents an opportunity for your child, if old enough, to take part in teaching their new puppy these important commands.
• Take the time for plenty of calm socializing between your puppy and child. Dogs respond to our verbal clues and body language. When you use a calm, protective demeanor around your child or infant, your pup will learn to be sensitive and cautious. Teach your child to be calm and gentle as well, avoiding loud squeals or sudden jerky movements that are typical of a small child but could frighten your puppy.
• No matter how cute it looks, don’t let your child climb into the puppy’s crate. That is your pup’s safe space and should be kept only for them. 
• Carefully monitor any choking hazards for both your puppy and child. A young child who puts things in their mouth can get themself into trouble trying it with dog toys. Likewise, a pile of Legos or other common children’s toys can pose a danger to a curious puppy who decides to investigate by eating them.
• Always be present. No matter the puppy, no matter the child, the two should never be left unsupervised. To make sure they are both safe and interacting well, stay with them to monitor the situation. 

It’s also important to teach young children how to interact with dogs who aren’t in your family. Whether it’s a dog being walked on your street, running in a park, or even sitting in your veterinarian’s waiting room, remind your child to always ask an owner first before petting their dog. If the owner says it's okay, show your child how to let the dog sniff the back of their hand before you try to touch them. 

Likewise, if young children approach asking, “Can I pet your dog?” be sure their parent, guardian, or whatever adult is with them has given them permission first before allowing it. If they get the all-clear and then take the right steps by letting your dog sniff their hand first, reinforce the child’s correct behavior by praising them: “Nice job letting him sniff you first!” Finally, be sure to praise your dog, too, for being gentle and letting the child pet them.

If you feel your family would benefit from the input of one of our professional trainers on how to best work with your puppy or dog, contact us about Manners or eManners sessions. We’re always happy to help, and we know from experience that by working with both your puppy and child on interacting appropriately, all of you can enjoy plenty of safe, enjoyable time together for years to come.