Many parents naturally become very nervous and weary about keeping a dog around their child. That is why is so important to understand and teach your children about how to behave around dogs in general. The environment your dog is raised in, the relationship shared and your dogs individuality are the most important facets for upbringing a healthy, sociable and people-friendly pet. Here are some areas of owning a pet that are often misunderstood or questioned.
Is there such a thing as dog breed that is completely safe for my child and family?
No. Unfortunately many breeders and shops do their best to convince people that one type of dog is completely safe for their family, when the reality is quite different. Yes, there are certain dogs that can cooperate with children better than others, but this is not an end-to-all when it comes to owning a dog and being a parent. A very common question I receive is the in regards to the type of breed that is best for children and families. Through my experience and understanding it is not so much the breed of dog as it is the relationship and environment that the dog is raised. Things such as: positive training, healthy attention, affection and time spent between the dog and the family are all influential factors that can sway a dogs aggression towards children and others. One of the most well-known family breeds is the golden retriever, which I have sadly seen attack a child in response to the child’s actions. I have also seen the non-family friendly Akita’s become the most loving and well-behaved dog regardless of their bad reputation. It is extremely important that a dog is chosen for its fit with the family, even if it is before a child enters the picture. Your understanding of your dogs social traits, breeding background and common behaviors should be understood before introducing one to your child. I do believe the underlying factor that makes a dog people & child friendly is the quality of time spent.
When can I be sure my dog won’t bite or nip?
All dogs are capable of biting at any time. Training a dog to not bite can prevent the frequency or display of aggression, but it should be understood that dogs naturally bite in defense. That is why it is important to teach children how to handle a dog and act around them. Cornering a dog, placing hands on their neck (even gently), taunting, and abuse are only a few of the actions that will put a dog in defense mode. You should understand your dogs limit and the actions that they are not comfortable with in order to make your child aware of what not to do.
How can I tell if a dog poses a threat to my child?
This is one area of my experience that has posed the greatest surprise to even me. I have found it common for people to associate breeds, stature, and look of a dog to their level of aggression. For instance a Yorkie is not seen as a threat by many, but due their small size they are easily intimidated. To make up for their none threatening look, they will lash out, bite and growl at very unexpected times to show they are not vulnerable. So just because a dog might be cute, do not let your assumptions or your child’s be fault to an accident.
Is it bad if there are times that I don’t feel safe to approach my dog?
There should not be anytime that you feel unsafe to approach your dog. Although there are times a dog can express territorial behaviors, you should not feel like you, your child, or others are at risk of being attacked in any way shape or form. During meals, going to the bathroom, playing or sleeping are situations that dogs often display their un-acceptance of interference or disruption. A dog, especially a family dog, should be trained not to negatively respond even at these times. It is important that children be taught to ask their parents if they need something near the dog to reduce the chances of an incident.
Should I be concerned if my older dog is becoming more aggressive?
As pets age, just like humans, their senses become less acute. This lack of awareness often heightens the probability of the dog attacking or reacting to even the most subtle situations. This is a time that extra caution and care should be taken around the dog. It is not difficult or time-consuming. When the dog is sleeping or looking in the other direction, simple tapping the floor or flickering the lights will let the dog know your are nearby. Pay attention to your dogs behaviors, because many people feel they are doing nothing wrong during a situation. But your dogs do tell you what’s wrong and it is a matter of taking a second to listen. Avoid getting frustrated during these times and just know you have the same lovable ball of fur, just that they need a little extra consideration.
What should I tell my child to avoid when our dog is pregnant?
This is a time when dogs can become naturally very protective and stand-offish. Even if your dog has never shown any aggression before, you should be very wary of how you act around your dog. Reprimanding bad behavior during this time should also be reserved. For example, if your child is nipped, do not proceed to express your “normal” reproof for the actions unless deemed extremely necessary. It should be noted that any strain experienced by the dog will have a direct impact on the puppies. The same goes for the opposite when puppies are seen by themselves, unaccompanied by a parent dog. Teaching your child to not approach them alone is very important to avoid the chances of the mother or father dog attacking out of defense for their kin.
Should I allow my dog at an early age to nibble or nip even during play time?
This is one of the most important habits to train at an early age. Reason being is because a dog that is not corrected for even soft biting is learning that it is ok to bite humans. As they age and mature it will become more and more difficult to re-teach the dog that biting is a problem. Dogs often will mistakenly associate the owners negative discourse to some other action they might have done and not the biting.
What difference does spaying or neutering have on my dogs behavior?
Many pet owners commonly misunderstand that just because their pet is spayed or neutered, they will not display any aggression or bad behaviors. Although it does affect how the dos acts it does differ between pets and their levels of tolerance. It is recommended that pets undergo their surgeries for they are 6 months old. This is the phase in their life that puberty begins and their hormones begin to change. Do not feel you have to have your pet spayed or neutered in order to make your home safe for your child. These surgeries can have quite the opposite affect on the dogs behavior. Your dog maybe more prone to aggression after the surgery depending on how their body acclimates to the changes. Again this is a time when your dogs environment, relationship with the family and affection influence how they react.
The Clever Parents column, Pet Perspective, is written by Collin Walker who is a trainer, practitioner, educator and specialist of pet related issues. Collin devotes his time to exploring the matters that shape the connection between pet owners and their pets. He has co-authored, written and taught these matters to make that truly inspirational bond even stronger. He hopes that through his articles he can pass forth knowledge that will make even the everyday parent - become an expert. Educate, Exercise, and Experience. Visit Collin’s website at www.pet-super-store.com
Give your pooch a little lift with this protein-packed meal. 
