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.

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