Ep 028 The Do’s and Don’ts of Child Interaction with a Dog

Dogs and kids go together like peas and carrots—most of the time. Learn some basic guidelines and simple techniques to help the dogs and kids in your family start off on the right foot.

This episode continues our campaign to bring awareness of all of aspects of dog ownership and responsibilities.

Show Highlights

• Chit chat about goals group learning Bennie’s Three Rulez for Consistency. Implementing these Rulez creates hyperawareness of how I’m interacting with the dog
• This holiday was created by Colleen Paige in 2005. She also was behind several other National Holidays such as:
  • Dog Day
  • Cat Day
  • Puppy Day
  • Mutt Day
  • Pet Day
  • Wildlife Day
• Chopper, sick balls! And owner responsibilities.
• Why it’s important to teach the DOG not the child
• Tips on getting dogs accustomed to child-heavy environments
• Bennie explores two common scenarios:
  • How a NEW dog interacts with existing children
  • How to get an existing dog ready for a new family member
• Devin discovers the difference between a look of apology and a look of confusion on a dog

The Do’s and Don’ts of Child Interaction with a Dog

1. Always ask permission when greeting a new dog!
2. Let the dog approach you and your child first, before reaching out
3. Pet dogs under the chin and not on the head
4. If you as the dog owner feel uncomfortable about the situation, then take your dog away. Some stress signs to look for:
   • Excessive chopping, licking, or yawning
   • Turning away from the child
   • Lip curl or low growl
   • Tucked tail
5. If a dog is loose and approaches you and your child:  Stand still and put your hands in your pockets. If you pick up your child, have them be quiet and still as well. Turn your side to the dog, not your back. To some dogs, this shows weakness. Do not make direct eye-contact, act aloof. Once the dog leaves, wait at least a minute before making any moves or putting your child down.

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Mentioned in This Episode

Professional National Holiday Creator Colleen Paige can be found at ColleenPaige.com

Dog Training Resources

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