Bringing home a dog to a house full of children is a challenging task, but in the long run, you’ll be the happiest person on the planet! Having said that, there are some things to keep in mind to ensure that the introduction is as smooth as possible.
Remember that it takes time, and it’s a gradual process. Check out some important tips to keep in mind before introducing your dog to a child. And here’s Part 1, in case you missed it!
1. Play Time
Kids love to play with dogs, so much so that they forget that they’re playing with dogs, not little toothless humans. Children should be taught to never put their fingers in a dog’s mouth, poke the dog or tug at their tail. Always supervise playtime between your children and your dog.
2. Always Supervise
Yes, your dog is the bestest dog that could ever dog the world. Yes, you have perfect children. But no, you should never leave them together unsupervised. For your child’s safety, always monitor playtime and any interaction between your dog and the kids.
3. Follow a Schedule
We’ve mentioned this before, and we’ll mention this again – dogs love schedules. So make sure you have one in place when you bring home a dog and follow that schedule. Schedule when the dog will be fed, when they’ll be take out for walks, and when they’ll be put to bed – this routine will help keep your house organized.
4. Think Like a Dog
Is there anything in the house that could be a choking hazard for your dog? Is there anything dangerous that could make them sick? Any house plants that are toxic to them? Dog-proof your house before you bring home your dog. Teach your kids to never put anything on the floor that the dog could chew, bite or choke on. Toxic plants? Throw them out and replace them with safe plants.
How many of you agree? Let us know in the comments!
Feature Image Source: Pixabay