Have you ever heard the saying, dog is a man’s best friend? There are many reasons this is true. For most people, dogs are a huge part of their life and they have fond memories of all the four-legged friends they have had through the years. Many times, dogs become valuable family members, helping teach children responsibility, gentleness, respect, and love. The bond built between your family and your dog is something that will last a lifetime.
How to Introduce Children to a New Dog
The love between people and their pooches is something that is exciting and fun. However, if you are thinking about getting your own furbaby, you need to be prepared to introduce the dog and your children in a safe, nonthreatening environment for everyone. One way to find some tips and tricks is by taking the time to visit Pet Life. You can also browse around for a few tips to ensure this initial meeting is a successful one here.
Remember, dogs are animals. What this means is that they could react in a negative manner if the situation feels threatening. Believe it or not, there are approximately 1000 people who seek emergency care for a negative encounter with a dog. As a parent, it is up to you to make sure your children and pets are safe and that they don’t become part of this statistic.
When you take time to teach your child the right way to approach, handle, and treat new dogs, you can reduce the likelihood that something bad is going to happen. Here are some ideas to help you get started.
Teach Your Kids How to Pet Animals Gently
Most children love animals. However, they may not realize when they squeeze too hard or pull a dog’s tail or coat. In many cases, a child will unintentionally hurt a dog, which may result in a nip, bite, snarl, or another type of aggressive behavior. The best way to avoid these situations is by teaching your children the right way to pet a new dog.
Teach Your Kids to remain Calm
When your child is ready to meet their new four-legged friend, make sure they are calm and approach from the side. Instruct the child to provide enough room for the animal and wait for the dog to come their way, rather than the other way around. This will let the dog watch the child without feeling nervous or overwhelmed. It also lets the dog meet the child on its own terms, rather than someone else’s, which is more likely to provide a positive outcome.
Use a Leash or Commands to Maintain Control
According to experts, it is a good idea to use commands or a leash to ensure the dog remains under control during the interaction. Get the dog to sit and then make calm introductions. If you use the leash, you will be able to regain control of the situation if things start to get out of hand.
Avoid Giving Toys or Treats at First
There are many dogs that become overly excited if they see or smell a treat. If they get too excited, the dog may unintentionally try to snatch it out of your child’s hand. Additionally, toys are great for playtime, but they may cause some territorial issues or even roughhousing if they are not used the right away. If this happens, it may result in your child being scared of the dog.
Eventually, everyone will be comfortable enough to engage with toys, treats, and even matching clothes if you wish. The key is to give your children and the dog time to get acclimated without any distractions.
Allow the Dog Time to Sniff
Before your child tries to pet the new dog, give the dog plenty of time to sniff around the child. A dog will use its sense of smell to meet someone. Make sure your child knows they should stand still and allow the dog to do this.
As an extra level of caution, be sure to move slowly if you offer your hand to the dog to smell. Make sure your child has curled their fingers in to make a fish and that they don’t push their hand into the dog’s face aggressively. Also, allow the animal to come to them. If you are introducing your new baby to a dog, bring the baby’s blanket home first, so the dog can get used to the smell before meeting the actual person.
Avoid Loud Sounds and Wild Movements
There are some children who want to squeeze or hug dogs. However, they should be instructed to remain as calm as possible. Any type of sudden body movement may scare the dog, causing it to feel like it should do something to protect itself. This protection may come in the form of nipping or biting.
Don’t Mess with a Dog That is Sleeping or Eating
If your child startles a dog while it is asleep or eating, it may cause a problem. Make sure your child or children knows to give the dog enough space during these times. If needed, you can even postpone introductions until a time when the dog isn’t doing something else.
Ask Permission Before Approaching a Dog You Do Not Know
It is important that children understand that not all dogs will be cuddly or even friendly. By teaching your child this important rule, you can feel confident they will not get in a dangerous situation.
Nipping and growing are some of the most common reasons children grow to be fearful of dogs. If your child sees a dog they want to pet, they should always ask the owner if they can pet it before doing so. This will ensure it isn’t an aggressive dog or a dog that doesn’t like children.
Know the Dog’s Body Expressions
If you begin to notice that the dog’s ears are back, the tail is rigid, or if the fur on the dog’s back has started to stick up, it is best to approach carefully. This is a sign that the dog doesn’t know if they are ready to be introduced.
When it comes to meeting a new dog, there are a few things you can do to ensure your child and the dog have a positive experience.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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