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There's something special about watching kids grow up with a love for animals. One of my all-time favorite photos is a blurry picture of me at age five getting smothered in kisses from my uncle's chocolate lab. I still keep a printout today — the image reminds me of my childhood joy, enthusiasm, and passion for our fellow creatures. It's a passion I've carried into adulthood... and that was the direct result of getting to spend so much time with animals when I was young.
Not every dog-kid interaction results in belly laughs and good memories, though. Small children can be unpredictable — and we have to remember that even the sweetest, most gentle pups are still canines with their own experiences of the world.
Here are some simple tips to keep dog-kid interactions safe!
1) Understand that dogs aren't Disney characters
The myth of domestic dogs as unfailingly patient animals is a rosy vision. We routinely see this message on television shows and movies and popular social media accounts — because it makes us feel all warm and fuzzy inside! What dog lover hasn't experienced this sense of unconditional love?
But expecting our pets to be gentle all the time, in every situation, isn't fair.
While some dogs are naturally more tolerant than others (able to handle ear pulling and rough petting and an occasional stepped-on tail with grace) no dog is a perfect robot. And we shouldn't expect them to be! They don't understand our human social norms or experience the world in the same way.
So first things first: Know that our companions aren't animated Disney characters. They're complex animals with their own preferences. They might not immediately feel comfortable with every kid you introduce them to. That doesn't mean they're "bad" — it's completely normal.
2) Always supervise when dogs and kids are together
Always keep a close eye on interactions between your dog and children. Even the friendliest dogs and the kindest kids can have unexpected reactions (and as they say, "it only has to happen once").
This doesn't mean it can't be an amazing experience for pups and little ones to play together.
Just make sure:
- The play stays gentle (avoid roughhousing with young children, even if your dog enjoys wrestling with you)
- They take plenty of breaks to decompress
- Everyone involved is enjoying themselves!
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3) Respect everyone's space
Help kids understand signs of discomfort in dogs.
Common stress signals include:
- Quick lip licking
- Looking off to the side where you can see the whites of their eyes ("whale eye")
- Growling
- Snarling or showing teeth
- Trying to move away
- Cowering in place
If you notice any of these calming signals? Encourage children to give your pup space for a while!
Let sleeping dogs lie
It's also a good idea to set across-the-board rules ahead of time that kids shouldn't bother your dog while they're eating, sleeping, inside their crate, or resting in one place.
Kids deserve the same consideration!
And this respect goes both ways: If a child is trying to eat a favorite snack or feeling a little tired of being smothered in licks, call your dog away so they can take a break. Even the best of friends need a little space sometimes.
4) Teach both kids and dogs to be gentle
Show kids how to pet your dog gently. A common rule of thumb is to tell them to use only one hand at a time: "One hand is enough, two hands is too rough."
It's also best to avoid:
- Hugs (hugs are a primate behavior that can often overwhelm canines)
- Lying on leaning on top of your pup
- Touching tails, ears, and paws
Interrupt if an interaction gets too hectic
Have your dog practice being calm around littles, too. If you notice them getting too excited — which runs the risk of accidental scratches or nips out of overstimulation — have everybody take a break to reset.
Tell everyone when they're doing a good job!
Be sure to praise both your dog and your kids for successful interactions. Positive reinforcement encourages them to continue behaving safely around each other!
5) Practice your pup's training ahead of time
Work on your dog's basic commands, especially recall to call them away if you want to have them take a break from an interaction. This helps you maintain control in situations where your dog is spending time with kids!
Know that it can be too distracting to start working in that environment right away, though. Make sure to build your pup's skills up slowly before asking them to perform in "real life".