Top 10 Rules for Children Around Dogs

Cute picture of the child hugging the dog, huh? But, it is images like these that compel me to write a blog about teaching children rules for being around dogs. There are certain elements of respect that we would give humans that also should be given to dogs. If we follow these rules, accidental dog bites and injuries should be kept at bay:

1. Do not hug a dog. Yes, humans like hugs, but dogs don't and dogs are not humans! Hugs make dogs nervous. Dogs can be trained to tolerate hugs, but it's not really their cup of tea and they would rather you stay out of their personal bubble. 
2. No Running. Children must be trained not to run up to a dog. This could startle or scare the dog. In addition, children should not run in front of a dog even while playing with the dog. This could trigger the prey instinct in a dog and will often result in a child getting nipped in the butt or getting knocked down and bitten. 
3. Don't touch body parts. Dogs should be pet from head to the base of the tail in a stroking motion with the palm of the hand. Children should not pull ears and tails or be messing around with the legs, paws, ect... Yes, adult humans should train their dog to tolerate the legs, paws, ears, etc... to be handled for veterinarian examination purposes. This is for training not for child's play. 
4. Leave your dog alone while he/she is eating. Let's put it this way-- Would you like it if someone came up and placed their hand in your dinner plate? Probably not. Please, when a dog is eating, give him/her space to eat in peace.
5. Do not steal a dog's toys. Instead, teach your dog "drop it" if you really need the toy. But don't just grab it out from under them. It's rude!
6. Leave your dog alone while he/she is sleeping. Same as with eating--Would you really want someone messing with you while you are taking your much beloved nap? Probably not.
7. Loud noises hurt dog's ears. A dog's hearing is WAY more sensitive than a human. For Parents: You know how frazzled you get when your kids are running and screaming through the house? Now imagine that you can hear 4 times the distance and higher frequencies. That is a dog's hearing. A frantic, loud household= an over stimulated dog.
8. Do not tease your dog. They don't understand teasing and it's not funny to them. All it will do is build a level of distrust in your relationship.
9. Crates are safe places. Please train your children that if Fido goes to his/her crate, it's alone time. This is an area that should be comforting and quiet for them. 
10. Playtime has ended. Children should learn how to read their dog's language to know when playtime has ended. If your dog is walking away, they are done. On the flip side, Dog's should be trained to know when playtime has ended! 

 Please be consistent with these rules with your children. It will make your furry family member feel secure and safe knowing that "the pack" is being respectful of boundaries. In turn, this will reduce the risk of bites and injuries for the small two-legged family members.