Dogs and kids can be best friends, full of love, loyalty, and playfulness.
However, as with any relationship, it has to be built on trust, and as we all know, trust is a two-way street. So to be sure our kids and dogs get along like two peas in a pod, we have to show them what to do. Here are a few ways to help them get there.
1. Start With the Basics: Dogs Aren’t Toys
Your little ones tend to think dogs are like stuffed toys, especially when they are as cute as French Bulldog puppies with squishy faces and playful ways. They’re just so pettable. As adorable as they are, you must teach your kids they’re living things, not toys.
Teach your child that a dog has feelings, mood changes and likes and dislikes. It does not like you to pull its tail, stuff your spatula in its mouth or hitch a ride on its back. Gentle hands and calm movements, as well as gentle pets, are the markers of a safe and happy playtime.
2. Always Ask Before Petting
Every child should know the golden rule before they introduce themselves to a dog: Never touch a dog when the owner isn’t around. You can’t just go up to a dog and try to pet it before asking. An owner might not appreciate your child’s affection, especially if it’s expressed with a squeeze around the neck.
Practice asking before your child touches a dog. Whether they are with you or not, your child can practice using polite manners while also learning to protect themselves from dog bites. Once they know if it’s okay, have them move close but slowly. If the dog doesn’t walk away, they can offer their hand for a sniff and allow the dog to come over to them.
3. Respect a Dog’s Space and Routine
Would you appreciate it if someone came into your bedroom when you were trying to rest or took your dinner away from you? Dogs don’t like it very much either. One thing many people don’t realize is that a sleeping dog can react very unexpectedly when they are woken from their sleep. The same is true when they are eating or drinking; they can be very protective of their food and don’t appreciate when their space is invaded.
Children must learn not to bother dogs when they are eating, drinking, or caring for their puppies. So, set guidelines in your home so that there are “no zones” for children. Every dog needs a safe place to retreat to without being bothered or followed. This can be a blanket, a crate, or a bed.
4. Recognise the Warning Signs
Dogs do talk with their body, but a lot of people don’t sit long enough to listen. So pay attention to what your dogs say. If a dog is scared, anxious, or stressed, they tuck their tail, pin back their ears, curl back their lips, and show their teeth. You will hear him growling, whining, or barking. If you pay attention, you will know when to step in and stop any play that they are engaged in.
Teach your child to know and ‘listen’ to the other things a dog may be saying. Are they looking stiff instead of happy and friendly? This is an important part of safety for children, so they are less likely to get hurt when playing with dogs.
5. Choose the Right Dog for Your Family
Choosing the right dog breed can also help ensure your children are safe from harm. With French bulldogs, for example, families typically can’t go past their adorable natures and winning smiles. Put simply, Frenchies are sweet and well-behaved dogs that are well-known for making the best four-legged friends for young families. Regardless of the breed of dog you’re considering, every dog requires training, kindness, and care, and it will pay to ensure your dog is correctly and safely introduced to your children.