Creating a harmonious home
Watching the bond between a child and a dog grow is one of the most beautiful things. As a parent and dog owner, ensuring every interaction is safe and positive is the most important job. To help you foster a brilliant relationship built on mutual respect, I’ve put together my essential tips for a happy and harmonious home.
My 8 golden rules for a safe and happy household
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Always supervise interactions
Even the most trustworthy dog can get overwhelmed. A child might not notice the subtle signs of a dog feeling uncomfortable, so it’s crucial to always keep an eye on them together. Active supervision is the key to preventing problems before they start.
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Let sleeping (and eating) dogs lie
Teach children that when a dog is in their bed sleeping or at their food bowl eating, that is their special private time. A surprise approach can startle a dog, so it’s a simple rule that helps keep everyone safe and relaxed.
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Teach gentle petting, not hugging
While we see hugs as a sign of affection, most dogs find being tightly held or hugged very uncomfortable and threatening. I always teach children to offer gentle strokes on a dog’s side or chest, and to let the dog approach them first.
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Respect their space and their things
A dog’s toys and food are their prized possessions. Teach children never to take things away from your dog, as this can lead to feelings of anxiety or resource guarding. Instead, we can use fun games to teach a dog to happily “drop” or “trade” an item.
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Create a “safe haven” for your dog
Make sure your dog has a comfortable retreat—like a crate, bed, or a quiet corner—where they can go for a break. It’s vital to teach children that when the dog is in their safe space, it is completely off-limits to them.
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Keep play gentle and fun
It’s important that children understand never to pull a dog’s ears or tail, or engage in overly rough play. Instead, encourage positive games like a gentle “find it” or supervised fetch, which build a fun and cooperative relationship.
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Become a body language expert
As the parent, you are your dog’s best advocate. Learn to spot the early signs of stress (like lip licking, yawning, or turning away) so you can step in before your dog feels the need to growl. The book “Doggie Language” by Lili Chin is a fantastic, illustrated guide for the whole family.
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Give everyone a break
Sometimes, the best way to keep the peace is to give your dog and your child time apart. This prevents overstimulation for both of them and ensures their time together stays positive and fun.
Need personalised help for your family?
Every family dynamic is unique. If you’re struggling to manage the relationship between your children and your dog, a One-to-One Session is the perfect way to get a personalised plan and create a truly safe and happy home for everyone – get in touch with me today.
