Dogs & Kids
The heartwarming bond between a dog and a child is the stuff of Hollywood magic. Just picture the classic Lassie stories or the movie “My Dog Skip.” Dogs and children can develop rich, rewarding relationships, but things aren’t quite as simple in real life as they are on the silver screen.

Because young children are down at dog level, interactions between kids and dogs can pose special risks. Children may unintentionally do the wrong things around dogs. They may scream, jump, flap their arms, fall down, run around or make sudden movements. This normal kid behavior can frighten a dog. At its worst, it resembles the actions of a wounded animal and can trigger a dog’s predatory instincts.

If you’re uneasy about children around dogs there are steps you can take to avoid problems. First, remind kids that dogs are animals. Real-life dogs aren’t toys, and they’re not like the dogs’ children see in the movies and cartoons.

Make sure children learn a few basic dog-safety rules:

• Never approach an unfamiliar dog that is not on a leash.
• If you want to pet a dog, first check to see if he’s on a leash.
• Ask the person holding the leash if you may pet the dog.
• Then “ask” the dog for permission: Call him and give him a chance to smell your hand.
• If the dog doesn’t come when you call, don’t try to pet him.
• If he does come, be gentle and move very slowly. Quick, jerky movements are scary to a dog.
• Pet the dog on his shoulder or back, not on his head or tail.
• Never, ever tease a dog.
• If an unfamiliar dog approaches you, don’t run. Stand completely still until the dog goes away.

If you add a dog to your family, start things off on the right foot. First impressions are very important. From the beginning, have your child deliver the things your dog really loves – meals, treats or his leash when it’s time for a walk. That way he learns that good things happen when your child is around.

Teach your kids not to startle the dog or handle him roughly. Tell them to be careful about approaching him when he’s eating, sleeping or chewing on a bone. At the same time, get your dog used to being touched, grabbed and hugged. Train him to relax when people get near his food bowl or toys. Supervise all dog-child interactions. If either the dog or the child gets too boisterous, give them a time-out.

Just because your dog is fine with your kids doesn’t mean he won’t have problems with an unfamiliar child. Other children may not know how to behave around dogs, or strangers may spook your dog.

Never leave your children’s playmates alone with your dog, and be careful when your dog is out in public. If he isn’t friendly to all strangers, or if he tends to act up on leash, don’t let unfamiliar children approach him. When in doubt, err on the side of caution. Say, “Please don’t come near my dog. He might bite.” It may sound harsh, but better to be safe than sorry.

These guidelines aren’t meant to take the fun out of life with dogs. Learning how to interact with dogs is simply a normal part of growing up—like learning how to cross the street. With a few basic precautions, kids and dogs can be safe, happy friends.

Reprinted With Permission
of the San Francisco SPCA

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