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If you have a puppy in your home and have children, it's important to make sure the interaction between the two is safe. Puppies are playful and full of energy, which can sometimes lead to unintentional interactions. Children are often curious and can be enthusiastic, which can sometimes lead to unsafe situations. In this article, we provide tips on how to promote safe interaction between puppies and children.
Teach children how to handle puppies
It is important that children know how to handle puppies. Teach them to gently pet and hug the puppy without hurting it. Also explain that a puppy has a mind of its own and sometimes doesn't want to play or be cuddled.
Teach the puppy how to interact with children
Puppies also need to learn how to interact with children. Get the puppy used to children by taking him to a playground, for example. Teach him to remain calm when children are around him.
Monitor the interaction
Always keep an eye on children and puppies together. Pay attention to how the puppy reacts to the children and vice versa. Intervene if the situation becomes unsafe.
Create a safe environment
Provide a safe environment for the puppy and children. For example, place a fence to protect the puppy when the children are playing. Do not leave the puppy alone with children if unsupervised.
Get plenty of rest
Puppies need plenty of rest to stay healthy. Provide a quiet place where the puppy can sleep and retreat if overstimulated.
Teach children not to pull the hair or tail
It is important that children know not to pull on the puppy's hair or tail. Explain that this hurts and could make the puppy unsafe.
Teach the puppy not to bite
Puppies have a tendency to bite when they play. Teach the puppy that biting is not allowed and give him an alternative, such as a toy.
Teach children not to tease the puppy
Children should not tease or bully the puppy. Teach them to treat the puppy with respect and to leave the puppy alone if he doesn't want to play.
Teach children not to feed the puppy
It is important that children know not to feed the puppy. This can lead to health problems in the puppy.
Teach the puppy how to handle crowds
Children and puppies may engage in busy activities together, such as running and playing. Teach the puppy how to handle crowds and how to react to children running after him, for example.
Teach children not to correct the puppy
It is important that children do not correct the puppy if he does something wrong. This can damage the relationship between children and the puppy. Instead, teach them to reward desired behavior.
