How to Help Your Dog Get Used to Children

Too many people get rid of their dogs before their first child is born. They are wrong to assume that kids and canines cannot coexist. On the contrary, having a pet is a great way to teach a child responsibility, and the pet will enjoy having another playmate in the house. It's a mutually beneficial relationship. The main idea is to let the dog know that it and the child are part of a household family.

Things You'll Need

  • Clothing items and/or blanket that belongs to the child
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Instructions

    • 1

      Bring some of the child's clothing items, or her blankets, to the dog. This pertains to a young child or unborn child. The dog will familiarize itself with the smell and make a connection to the child before meeting him in person. According to Animal Health Channel, it also is wise to leave the child's clothing items or blankets around the house.

    • 2

      Introduce the child to the dog in a "neutral" area that is shared by the whole family, such as the den or living room. Make sure there is no food or toys (dog's or child's) in the room, so neither party will be defensive. The child should have the clothing item or blanket that was previously introduced to the dog. Allow the two to interact, but be a safe distance away in case conflict ensues. It also might be a good idea to restrain the dog, depending on its temperament. Limit the meeting to a few minutes, and give the dog and child plenty of attention and positive reinforcement.

    • 3

      Invite the dog into the child's room. Encourage the child to pet or play with the dog there using one of the dog's toys. This will show the dog that the room is a safe place and the child is a friend.

    • 4

      Allow the child to safely venture near the dog's eating or sleeping area, but be ready to get between the two if the dog gets angry. It's important for the two to understand each other's boundaries and to respect the dog's "personal space" if it has a desired area to get a break from the child.