Advice for children and dogs.
- Prepare the dog: Before bringing a dog home, expose it to children of different ages through controlled interactions.
- Give the dog space: Provide a designated area for the dog to feel comfortable and confident.
- Take it slow: Give the dog time and space to adjust to the new environment.
- Teach children how to act: Teach children how to behave around dogs, including how to act around dogs they don't know.
- Supervise: Never leave a child alone with a dog, even for a short time.
- Use positive reinforcement: Reward the dog when it behaves well with children, and praise children for gentle interactions.
- Teach children to be gentle: Explain that dogs are sensitive and can feel scared or uncomfortable.
- Keep toys separate: Keep children's toys separate from the dog's toys.
- Don't let children feed the dog: Don't allow children to feed the dog while it's eating.
- Don't let children disturb a sleeping dog: Let sleeping dogs lie and give them a quiet place to retreat to.
- Train the dog: Train the dog not to jump up on people.
- Practice safe hygiene: Practice safe hygiene between the dog and children.
