An excellent rule of thumb applies to both adults and children who are playing with dogs: the puppy is not a toy. Fetch is a great game to teach your dog. Rough play like tug-of-war, wrestling, and general aggressive play must be halted immediately. No negotiating on this rule.
(Check out Tips on How to Foster Good Relationship Between Your Dog and Your Kids)
Every dog that lives with people needs to learn to be social and polite. Actively teaching your dog to be antisocial (with “bad” play) will nurture some of the most annoying behaviors and potentially dangerous behavior problems.
Children may share in the experience by providing age-appropriate tasks (food, water, supervised games, and yard cleaning). Children should never be required to reprimand, redirect, or crate a puppy or adult dog. Most small children compensate for their age by being overly aggressive, either vocally or physically. Remember, prepubescent children are rarely in control of their emotions. They also have little patience for dogs that do not listen to them and may become easily frustrated. Always supervise your children with your dog.
No single breed of dog is “wonderful around children.” Each breed must be taught how to behave in a family situation. Most dogs view small children as “littermates” and may play roughly or in a doggie manner with the children. This should be anticipated and play should be supervised and directed. Keep your dog on-leash and actively direct your dog when he is around children.
Do not distraction train your dog using your children. The mental discipline developed during distraction training can make your dog tired and frustrated. During this period, the dog appears to develop slightly negative feelings toward the object with which he is being distraction trained. Always socialize your dog around your children when both children and dog are fresh and rested.
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