How to prepare children for the reality of caring for a dog

Children need to be of an age where they can understand and conceptualise rules and boundaries relating to their dog, but, again, that is for each family to decide, as every child is different.
The principle responsibility a child has when it comes to having a dog is behaving around them in ways that are safe and mutually enjoyable.

The age of the child is therefore important in terms of being able to explain what boundaries there might be relating to that — ie, giving a dog space when they are eating, drinking and sleeping.
Only older children — around the age of 10 and above — can be expected to have more developed self-regulation, which may impact both their own behaviour and their pet’s welfare, so child-dog interactions should be supervised by an adult at all times.

​Preparing children for getting a dog

We would advise that the vast majority of dog care is carried out by an adult.
Children can of course help with certain tasks, such as preparing the dog’s dinner, but only under close adult supervision.

Adequate dog care requires a developed understanding of how to sufficiently meet a dog’s needs — and that shouldn’t be a responsibility given to a child both in the interests of their safety, as well as the dog’s wellbeing.
It’s important that parents and carers role-model how to be a loving and responsible dog owner, as these behaviours, including any beliefs and attitudes that underpin them, are likely to be copied by children.

Prior to getting a dog, it would be valuable to include children in the preparation process.
This may include showing them how to research which breed is best for your family, home and lifestyle, as well as choosing a local veterinary clinic to register with.
They may also be able to help you explore reward-based training classes in your area.
There is information on the Dogs Trust website about dog schools and classes near you.

Children can bring a great deal of love and enjoyment to a dog, and vice versa, if their interactions are safe, appropriate and mutually rewarding.

See our Dogs And Children: Living Safely Togetherwebpage, where you can find more advice, support and services, including a free parent webinar.
Visit our Safety page on the Learn With Dogs Trust website, where you can find safe, fun activities for dogs and children to enjoy together.

​Helping your new pet to settle in

It’s important to let your new dog settle at their own pace.
Allow them to spend time on their own without disruptions and to come to you when they are ready.

Make sure your dog has their own cosy, safe space or den, away from the hustle and bustle of the house.
You could add enrichment, treats and toys to this area to encourage them to use it and help them to learn that it’s a positive place.
If your dog goes to their safe place, they should never be disturbed there.

If your dog doesn’t approach you for a fuss, then don’t force it — giving them space and time will help them to relax and feel more confident around you.
Avoid any visitors during this period and make sure your home is calm and quiet, so your dog can get familiar with their new surroundings in peace.

Creating a routine can help your dog learn what to expect and when, which can help them to feel more settled in their new home.
All dogs are different and some may take longer than others to settle.
Being patient and understanding is so important to support your dog.

If you are concerned about your dog’s behaviour, we’d advise speaking to your vet to check your dog is in good health.
Your vet can then refer you to an accredited behaviourist or trainer for support if needed.
For more guidance on sourcing a trainer or behaviourist, please visit our webpage.
For further support with your dog’s training and behaviour, please contact our free-of-charge Behaviour Support Line on 03030036666.

We also have more tips on our website on how to settle a puppy into your home and how to help a rescue dog settle.

​Other important points to note

It is vital that children understand dogs are not always accessible to them and that there are key times dogs need space and time alone.

Below are the child behaviours that most commonly precede a dog bite and are therefore the behaviours dogs find most worrying, which should be explained to children.
Children cannot be expected to self-regulate their behaviour, which is why close adult supervision is vital in ensuring interactions remain safe and enjoyable.

​Child behaviours commonly preceding a dog bite:

• Stopping a dog moving away.

• Touching or getting close to a dog while they’re eating or drinking.

• Taking toys or food away from a dog.

• Touching or getting close to a dog while they’re sleeping or resting.

• Being very loud near a dog.

• Moving quickly or erratically.

• Climbing on, poking or pulling a dog, or anything that could cause them pain or discomfort.

Through our free Be Dog Smart School Programme we teach children that there are key times to give dogs space, such as those mentioned.
We also explain that there are certain human behaviours dogs can find worrying, even if they are well intentioned.
Many dogs can struggle to cope with tight, restrictive hugging, and we advise that snuggles are a better choice when wanting to show affection to our four-legged friends.

Dogs can also struggle with kisses and with us being close to their face, as well as being touched in certain places.
For example, some dogs are very uncomfortable with their ears, paws or tails being touched, even if the touching is only gentle and meant lovingly.
This is not an exhaustive list and it is important to note that every dog is an individual.

We support children to understand that important message —individuality — through our fun and engaging school workshops and we reinforce throughout that dogs must always be free to move away from us if they choose to, without being followed.
Choice is fundamental to both a dog’s wellbeing as well as the safety of the human interacting with them.

They are many wonderful examples of children and dogs living safely together, but sadly that isn’t always the case when the needs of the dog are not fully understood.
Getting to know your own dog, explaining rules and boundaries to children, as well as closely supervising their interactions, is the best way to nurture the loving bond that children and dogs often share, and to keep everyone safe and happy.

For more information, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk