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Dogs with Children and Babies
by Janice Kumar
Most dogs
are well disposed towards children. However there are always exceptions to the
rule and nothing can be taken for granted. Some breeds have a natural tendency
to enjoy a child's company, and some may be indifferent, reserved or hostile to
them. It is important to understand which breed in general is good with children
and then make sure that that the dog is not neurotic due to genetic problems or
bad training, making it dangerous.
In short,
no dog can be considered fully safe with children. Many television and movies
propagate the myth that dogs are a child's best friend, however it must be
remembered that a dog does not act rationally in human terms. A dog will always
follow its instincts and act as a pack animal with its specific needs.
To get a
dog familiar with children, it is important to let the child interact with it.
Children can help with the chores of feeding a dog, grooming it and taking it
for walks. As the friendship between the dog and the child deepens, the dog will
start to love and protect the child. This will take time and effort and should
not be assumed to happen automatically. Smaller, preschool children should
never be left alone with dogs and puppies.
Children
should be taught to treat dogs with respect and kindness. Pulling the tails or
ears of a dog should be discouraged because the dog, also feels pain. A dog in
pain can react violently. A dog (especially a puppy) needs long
periods of peace, rest and sleep. If denied, it can react violently.
A baby
should not be kept in isolation from a dog in the house. If this is done, the
dog may fell that the hidden baby is not part of the family (pack) and may react
violently to its presence. A grown dog may try to drive away the (baby)
intruder. It is therefore important to introduce the baby to the dog and
let it understand that the baby is part of the family.
Lead the
dog to the baby talking to it in friendly terms. The dog will want to sniff the
baby and lick it. Allow this to happen and the dog will slowly understand that
the baby belongs to the family and will even try to protect it. It is important
not to give the dog cause for jealously by ignoring it in favor of the baby. As
you love and take care of the baby and the dog together, both will coexist
and enjoy each other's company.
Disclaimer: The article and
tips are for guidance only. Use them at your own risk and discretion. We take no
responsibility for any suggestion given above. We strongly urge you consult a
qualified professional vet to find a lasting cure for any problem. Please
consult a professional , before using any information on this site. No liability
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