Can Kids and Puppies Get Along?

 When thinking about whether to get a puppy when you have kids, two things might come to mind. One is a picture of a cornered dog snapping at a child and the other is that cute You Tube video showing a Labrador and a 2 year old as the best of friends. There are things to consider when making the decision to get a puppy and how to make it all go smoothly.

If you have not already chosen a puppy you have some options here. Of course every dog has its own personality, but you can get a head start by picking a breed that is known to be kid-friendly. You want a breed that is easy going, not high strung, likes people including small people, and is easy to train. Size is a factor in that you should consider how big the puppy will be when full grown and if that's an acceptable size with kids around.

Before bringing a new puppy home, find out what experience the pup has had with kids. Are there kids where the puppy now lives? Also observe the puppy eating and make sure she doesn't "guard" her food. This could be a huge problem.

Once home, you will need to train your puppy and train your children. Kids need to learn that puppies are not toys and you need to understand that small children don't intentionally try to hurt the puppy; they just don't get it yet. To keep them both safe don't leave the child and pup alone together.

Teach your kids not to pick the puppy up. Puppies are squirmy wiggly little things and can fall out of little arms. Show your children how to pet the puppy and use the word "gentle" over and over. Praise them when they do it right.

Puppies need to be trained not to bite or nip at the kids. They can, and should, be taught the difference between doggie chew toys and the children's toys. Your puppy may be a little too boisterous to play directly with little ones but you can have them share in the play by putting your child in a stroller or up in your arms while he throws the ball for the pup.

Young dogs should learn not to snatch food from a child's grasp. If they just sit tight, the kid is bound to drop some or all of the food anyway.

Children can take part in the care of the puppy by helping you hold the leash and helping you feed and bathe her. If your kids are old enough, they can help you train the puppy to sit, come, and stay. Some kids really like to teach a dog their very own special trick.

Kids and puppies can go together, although it will take some work on your part in the beginning. It's all worth it though, when the YouTube video of the kid and dog as best friend is actually your own.