Parents frequently acquire a dog as a friend for their children.  They picture Rover walking to the bus with the kids, fetching the ball they throw, and romping around happily in the yard all together.  When they get Rover home, though, he attempts to “fetch” the children, romps around the living room furniture, and walks in the opposite direction when called – just before he runs.  What is a parent to do?

The best medicine is preventive medicine.  Help Rover acclimate to his new home and family by restricting him to just one room in the house until he is settled.  Instead of opening your entire house to him immediately, play with him, read with him, groom him in “his” room for a while.  Take him outside to potty, obviously, but give him as long as he needs to settle in one room – maybe days – before introducing him to the rest of the house.  If he tends to jump on the children, you’ll be more successful teaching him calm behavior in one room.  For example, you could sit in the room with Rover’s leash clipped to your belt loop a safe distance from the kids while they play a board game or watch TV.  Reward him for good, calm behavior inside and he will be more inclined to choose that behavior outside when the kids are playing more actively.  Until then, teach your dog to play fetch with you alone in the yard so the kids will have a structured game to play with him when he’s out. 

Dogs and children can learn to get along well with your guidance.  Neither dogs nor children make natural teachers, but they can learn from each other with your assistance.  And remember to always supervise any interactions between your pet and your young children.  If you find yourself in need of some tips, feel free to contact our behavior helpline.  We are also happy to meet with you and your dog to help get you on the best path. 

Today’s blog author is Marie Tripton. Marie is the senior behavior/training specialist at the Richmond SPCA. Call the Behavior Helpline at (804) 643-SPCA.

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