Children & Puppies

Show your children how to interact with the puppy, throwing a toy/ball for the dog and not at the dog. Excitement levels need to remain calm, puppies can be easily upset and startled by loud noises/shouting. Rough play should be avoided and avoid teasing. Keeping a toy just out of reach will reinforce bad habits such as jumping up and excessive barking.

How/where to stroke gently, (no tugging and pulling of hair), hugging is best avoided with small children. We have two hands to hold a dog and (instead of hands) the dog will use his mouth to hold. Do not pull the tail or ears.  If your puppy becomes frightened they will try to get away and accidentally scratch or nip in the process.

Always supervise dog/child interaction – so that both child and pet are protected.

Children are more vulnerable to illness than adults, it is essential before and after playing with your new pet that hands are washed thoroughly. Remove and dispose of excrement from lawns and play areas immediately, this is where the toilet training comes in handy by teaching your puppy to go in a specific area away from the children’s play areas.