PUPPIES + KIDS=A Great Relationship 

By:  Pia Silvani, CPDT 

Raising a puppy, that will grow to become a special friend to the children, is something many families look forward to with excitement.  Lots of parents have fond memories of the dogs with which they shared their own childhoods.   Others, who grew up without a canine family member, can’t wait to finally have that pooch they’ve wanted for as long as they can remember.  Few would disagree that there’s almost nothing that compares to that unique and even mysterious relationship between kids and dogs.

 There are many of us, however, who probably remember growing up with our pets in a far less hectic environment than most of us cope with in today’s society.  The family of the twenty-first century—adults and kids alike--is likely to be juggling activities and responsibilities that require Herculean organizational skills!

Bringing a puppy, an adorable but needy little creature, into the mix adds additional time and responsibility to schedules that might already be tight.  

There is good news though!  Recognizing the value of pets in our lives, society has made adjustments as well so that most families, no matter how busy, need not be deprived of the rewards and benefits of canine companions.  There are dog walkers, pet sitters, day care, conveniently scheduled training classes, pet-friendly parks and activities, and loads of “things” that make it possible for us to raise and enjoy our puppies with minimal problems. 

Some advance planning will help to ensure that “life with puppy” goes smoothly. Before taking the plunge, take a good look at your current family calendar.  While the children, depending on their ages, should take on some additional duties related to having a dog, we all know that the greater part of the responsibility for successfully integrating this new family member will fall to the adults.  Spending some time working on how you will meet the puppy’s needs and whether outside help will be required will make it easier for you in the long run.  

Advance planning will pay off!  Many of the behaviors of children and dogs are quite similar—both can be somewhat inconsistent as they move from infancy to adolescence to adulthood!  Dogs, especially puppies, need consistency in their lives in order to function well.  When the basic rules haven’t been established, routinely change or are unclear, the developing pup is likely to become confused and even unruly.  If a dog is left to guess what is expected of him, he will probably do whatever pleases him!  Who could blame him?   

 This should certainly not discourage you from getting a puppy or dog—just be certain that you are getting one for the family, not ONLY for the children.  It will be up to you to set the guidelines that will help develop a healthy relationship between dog and child.  When you, the adult, are committed to starting training early and involving the entire family in learning basic training skills and practicing consistent behavior toward the pup, the benefits you will all reap will surpass any doubts you may have had when making the decision to get a puppy. 

 The key to getting started on the right “paw” is to establish guidelines for both the puppy and the children. The list below should help guide you in developing a strategy for success:

Rules for Pups

 Enrolling in a training class will guide you through the very best ways to show your newest family member what is expected.  

•  Teach the pup to take treats gently and only when told to ‘take it.’  Food in the hands of children is not up for grabs.

•  Teach the pup not to place his teeth on children.  Have appropriate toys and objects available, large enough so the dog doesn’t feel the need to grab at clothing or limbs.

•  Teach both the pup and his human playmates the rules of play and supervise them to be sure they are followed.  Use time outs for both when needed.

•  Teach the pup to sit politely for treats and petting—no jumping.  Getting the children involved in training and attending classes is an asset for the entire family.

•  Teach the pup to listen to commands even if they are given by children. 

Rules for Children 

Evaluate the relationship between your pup and child often to determine whether the experience for the puppy is good.  Put yourself in your puppy’s mind and body and ask yourself whether you would be comfortable with what the pup is experiencing.  Dogs should not just tolerate children – they should LIKE them and vice versa!  Taking the children with you to training class will help them to learn how to properly interact with the pup.  They will also learn that practicing self-control and manners around dogs, just as they have learned to do with humans, will enhance their enjoyment of their new pet.

 These basic rules are written just for kids.  Be sure to involve your kids in preparing for the newest family member. Discuss the following guidelines as a family prior to puppy’s arrival and let the kids post them around the house as reminders.  

•  Leave the pup alone when he is eating, sleeping and chewing on a bone.  Constant interruptions may irritate the pup, forcing him to reach the point where he tells children (in dog language) to ‘bug off!’

• Do NOT remove objects from the pup’s mouth.  Have an adult do that until the pup has been taught to give up items without feeling challenged and you have been taught exactly how it should be done.

•  Noisy games and running should be outdoor activities, or should take place away from the puppy.  Running children often excite a puppy and make it irresistible for him to give chase, especially if he hasn’t had adequate exercise.

• Do NOT chase after the puppy.  He may become fearful and suddenly turn and snap if cornered.

•  Do not use the puppy as a pillow, step stool or toy. Tackling, roughhousing, wrestling and grabbing are not good play.  There are lots of special games to learn that will be fun for puppies and children.

• Do NOT pick up and carry puppies, unless you have been instructed by the adults on how to do so and have been given permission.  They can be dropped or hurt if not handled correctly.

One final reminder:  Always be prepared for those once in a lifetime photo opportunities.  There’s nothing more heartwarming than photos of “best friends” growing up together!