Among most people a common question is always can we handle a puppy? Will it be too much, especially with the kids? How can we handle both? Well I'm here to tell you with a little discipline, those tiny little hands to help and a whole bunch of love you can do it and will be a pro in no time.
"Live as puppies do, like everything is an adventure"
When the day comes that you decide to bring home a four legged raptor (puppy) your household without doubt will be filled with plenty of excitement and love. With all this excitement also comes the worry of making sure the puppy does well with your kids and vice versa. It really can be easy to do with just a few simple steps to follow to ensure everyone respects each other and knows what’s expected of them. Children and puppies tend to be the same when it comes to discipline, where they are willing to learn but still have to show some of their stubborn side.
Starting off with boundaries is a great first step
Ensure your puppy has their own space where they can get away from everything and simply relax, and also be sure to make an area where the children can also get a break from puppy when need be. Doing this helps each other to be able to interact when they would like to but also able to make the decision to be alone when they prefer.
The next step is establishing some respect with each other
Now I know kids are kids and so are puppies but it’s never too soon to learn what’s ok and what isn’t. Here the basic commands come in handy in teaching your pup to help keep them from smothering the kids or even possibly using them as a chew toy.
"I'm not alone said the little boy, I've got a puppy"
Now with the children, make sure they know how to properly pet the puppy, sounds silly right?
Ensuring though that there is no pulling of the hair or ears can really make a difference on how they respond to the kids. I’m pretty sure they dislike it as much as we do!
Also having the children help with teaching the basic commands or anything really not only starts a form of respect for the puppy to them but also teaches the puppy that along with you these little critters are his masters too and he must obey!
Establish what can be used as a toy and what is not allowed
Now this goes for both puppy and the children. If your child uses a shoe, sock or anything you don’t approve of as a toy your puppy is not going to know any better and simply want to play.
However, if you make sure your children along with the puppy are trying to use the proper toys to play then you will find that teaching them can be a lot simpler!
Involving the kids in as much as you can with the puppies or even dogs can make a huge difference on their respect of the animals and also on your puppies/dogs for your children and your way of life.
