Children and Dogs: Important Information for Parents

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Living with a pet can be beneficial to children. Pets can enhance a child’s self-esteem, teach them responsibility and help them to learn empathy. However, children and dogs are not always going to automatically start off with a wonderful relationship. Parents must be willing to teach the dog and the child acceptable limits of behavior in order to make their interactions pleasant and safe.

Selecting A Dog
What age is best? Many people have a "warm fuzzy" image of a puppy and a child growing up together. If you have a young child and are thinking of adopting a puppy (less than one year old) there are a few things you need to consider.

  • Time and energy: Puppies require a lot of time, patience, training and supervision. They also require socialization in order to become well-adjusted adult dogs. This means they need to be taken places and exposed to new things and new people. If you have a young child who already requires a lot of care and time, will you have enough time to care for a puppy, as well?
  • Safety: Puppies, because they’re babies, are somewhat fragile creatures. A puppy may become frightened, or even injured, by a well-meaning, curious child who wants to constantly pick him up, hug him or explore his body by pulling on his tail or ears.
  • Rough play: Puppies have sharp teeth and claws with which they may inadvertently injure a small child. Puppies also tend to jump up on small children and knock them down. All interactions between your child and puppy will need to be closely supervised in order to minimize the chances of either being injured.
  • Advantages of getting an adult dog: Adult dogs require less time and attention once they’ve adjusted to your family and household routine, although you’ll still need to spend time helping your new dog with the transition to his new home. You can better gauge how hardy and tolerant an adult dog will be of childish enthusiasm and you can work with your local animal shelter to adopt a dog with a history of getting along well with children. As a general rule, if your child is under six years old, it’s best to adopt a dog that’s over two years old. Although puppies can be a lot of fun, and it’s exciting and rewarding to help them grow into wonderful companions, they do require significantly more time to train and supervise than an adult dog.

What Breed Is Best?
Although some general statements can be made about specific dog breeds, the characteristics of an individual dog are just as important as a dog’s breed.

  • Size: Small breeds of dogs, such as toy or miniature poodles, chihuahuas or cocker spaniels, may not be good choices for a young child. These small breed dogs are more easily injured than larger dogs and may be more easily frightened by a lot of activity, loud noises and by being picked up and fondled frequently. Frightened dogs tend to snap or bite in order to protect themselves. Larger dogs may be better able to tolerate the activity, noise and rough play that is an inevitable part of living with children.
  • Breed type: Some of the sporting breeds, such as labradors and golden retrievers, make good pets for families with children. Breeds that have been selected for protective behavior, such as chows and rottweilers, may not be as good for families with children. It’s sometimes difficult for this type of dog to comfortably tolerate the many comings and goings of children and their friends, who may be perceived as territorial intruders. Herding breeds are inclined to "herd" children, chasing and nipping at their heels.

Who Will Care For The Dog?
It’s unrealistic to expect a child, regardless of age, to have sole responsibility for caring for a dog. Not only do dogs need basic things like food, water and shelter, they also need to be played with, exercised and trained on a consistent basis. Teaching a dog the rules of the house and helping him become a good companion is too overwhelming a task for a young child. While responsible teenagers may be up to the task, they may not be willing to spend an adequate amount of time with the dog, as their desire to be with their friends usually takes over at this age. If you’re adopting a dog "for the kids," you must be prepared and willing to be the dog's primary caretaker.

Starting Off Right
Following are some guidelines to help you start off on the right foot. Remember, small children should never be left alone with a dog or puppy without adult supervision.

Holding:

  • It's safest for both your child and puppy if your child is sitting down whenever he wants to hold the puppy. Puppies are squirmy and wiggly and may easily fall out of a young child's arms and be injured. If held insecurely, a puppy may become frightened and snap or scratch in response. After your child is sitting, you can place the puppy in his arms.
  • Have your child offer the puppy a chew toy while he pets the puppy. When puppies are teething, they tend to chew on everything, including hands and arms, so having a chew toy handy will divert the puppy’s teeth away from your child. An added benefit is that the puppy will come to associate pleasant consequences (getting a treat) with being held by your child.
  • For larger dogs, have your child sit in your lap and let the dog approach both of you. This way you can control your child and not allow him to get "carried away" with pats that are too rough. You are also there to teach your new dog to treat your child gently.*

Petting and giving affection: Children often want to hug dogs around the neck. Your dog may view this as a threatening gesture, rather than an affectionate one, and may react with a growl, snap or bite. You should teach your child to pet your dog from underneath the dog’s chin, rather than hugging him or reaching over his head. You should also teach your child to avoid staring at, or looking directly into, your dog’s eyes.

Giving Treats: Children tend to become somewhat fearful and anxious when a dog tries to take a treat from their hand. This causes them to jerk their hand away at the last second. The dog may then jump up or lunge to get the treat which may result in the child being knocked down. Have your child place the treat in an open palm, rather than holding it in his fingers. You may want to place a hand underneath your child's hand to help guide him.

Supervising Play: Children move with quick, jerky movements, have high-pitched voices and often run, rather than walk. All of these behaviors somewhat resemble the behavior of prey animals. Almost all of a dog’s play behaviors are based on predatory behavior. Consequently, your dog may respond to your child’s behavior by chasing him, nipping at his heels, jumping up at him or even trying to knock him down.At first, your child may need to play quietly around your new dog until he becomes more comfortable and calm and your child has gained more control over the dog. Your dog must also learn that certain behaviors on his part are unacceptable, but he must also be taught what behaviors are the right ones. Our handout: "Dealing with Normal Puppy Behavior: Nipping and Rough Play" outlines procedures for discouraging rough play and encouraging appropriate play. However, most children under the age of ten are not capable of carrying out these procedures, so it’s helpful to teach your dog a "leave it" command that you can use when play gets too rough. Taking an obedience class together is a good way to teach your dog to respond to commands.An approach that is not helpful is to punish your dog for his behavior. If he learns that being around children always results in "bad things" happening to him, he may become defensive in their presence.

Possessions: Your dog won’t know the difference between his toys and your child’s toys until you teach him.

  • Your child must take responsibility for keeping his playthings out of your dog’s reach.
  • If, and only if, you catch your dog chewing on something he shouldn't, interrupt the behavior with a loud noise, then give him an acceptable chew toy and praise him lavishly when he takes the toy in his mouth.
  • Don't give your dog objects to play with such as old socks, old shoes or old children's toys that closely resemble items that are off-limits. They can't tell the difference!
  • Dogs can be possessive about their food, toys and space. Although it’s normal for a dog to growl or snap to protect these items, it’s not acceptable. At the same time, children need to learn to respect their dog as a living creature who is not to be teased or purposefully hurt and who needs time to himself .

If your dog is growling or snapping at your child for any reason, the situation needs IMMEDIATE attention. Punishing your dog is likely to make matters worse. You may call our Dog Behavior Helpline at (303) 696-4941, Ext. 346 for more information.

The League benefits from no tax dollars, but thanks to the support of many individual, foundation and corporate donors, the League makes a big difference for our animal friends...speaking for those who cannot speak for themselves.

http://www.ddfl.org/

 

Fun Kid's Stuff

Tips

There are many joys and responsibilities in having a pet. It's important to consider them all before deciding to get a pet and figure out which kind may be the best for your family. Choosing the right pet is a decision the entire family should participate in making. There are many things to consider, and each family member will have a contribution regarding:

Family Activity: Point of View Book

Make a book about your pet. It can be a story, comic or cartoon book. Imagine yourself from your pet's point of view.

Family Activity: If you have a pet...

If you have a pet cat or dog, go look through the indices of Cat and Dog breeds and try to see which one(s) your pet(s) look most like!

 

18 things we can learn from a dog

1. Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride
2. Allow the experience of fresh air and wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
3. When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
4. When it is in your best interest, practice obedience.
5. Let others know when they have invaded your territory.
6. Take naps and stretch before rising.
7. Run, romp and play daily.
8. Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.
9. Be loyal.
10. Never pretend to be something you’re not.
11. If what you want lies buries, dig until you find it.
12. When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle him or her gently.
13. Thrive on attention and love.
14. Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
15. On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
16. When you’re happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
17. Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
18. No matter how often you’re scolded, don’t buy into the guilt thing and pout, run right back and make friends.

 

Test your knowledge about the Pet Adoption and Pets by filling in the blanks belowIf you need a hint, the answers are provided at the bottom of the page. Good luck!

1. It is important to _____ a female cat so that she can not have kittens.

2. Animals that are looking for new homes are available for ________.

3. A baby dog is called a _________.

4. It is important to _________ all male cats and dogs in order to help control the pet population.

5. A ________ is a shot given to an animal by a veterinarian that keeps an animal healthy. 

6. Heartworm is a ______ that can be fatal for dogs.

7. If you give old blankets and cans of dog food to your local shelter you are making a _______.

8. A baby cat is called a __________.

9. To be kind to animals is to be __________.

10. Many kind people ________ at their local animal shelter because they love animals.

* 1. spay, 2. adoption, 3. puppy, 4. neuter, 5. vaccination, 6. disease, 7. donation, 8. kitten, 9. humane, 10. volunteer

 

 Mammal Measurement Mix-Up

Mammals come in all shapes and sizes, can you match up the mammal characteristic on the left with the correct measurement on the right.

 
Newborn red Kangaroo
Moose antler Span
Quill of crested porcupine
Height of African Elephant
White Rhino horn
Jack Rabbit Ear
Giraffe neck bone
Tongue of Giant Anteater
8 inches
5 feet
16 inches
6 1/2 feet 
1 inch
12 feet
2 feet
11 inches 

* Answers: 1.1inch, 2.6 1/2 feet, 3. 16 inches, 4.12 feet, 5.8 inches, 6. 5 feet, 7. 11 inches, 8. 2 feet
Wolf Whiz quiz T or F

1. Wolves are unable to climb.
2. Wolves are herbivores and prefer to eat plants.
3. Wolves measure about 5 1/2 feet long from nose to tail tip.
4. When wolves are removed from their natural habitat, other large animals suffer major bouts of disease and starvation. 
5. Wolves are lazy animals that do not like to play and exercise.
6. A wolf’s diet ranges from big game, such as elk and moose, to earthworms, berries and grasshoppers.
7. The wolf helps control the population of other wild animals.
8. Wolves usually weigh about 100 pounds.
9. Wolves prefer to prey on middle aged adult prey rather than weak,old or sick animals.
10. Wolves eat their food very slowly, savoring every last morsel.
11. Wolves are the largest members of the dog family.
12. Wolves build dens to when they have pups. Once the den is abandoned, it is taken over by other small mammals such as porcupines. 
13. Wolves are the ancestors of the Creodont that lived about 100 million years ago. 
14. Wolves that are kept by humans are domestic animals. 

 KEY 
1.False 2.False 3.True 4.True 5. False 6.True 7.True 8.True 9.False 10. False 11.True 12.True 13.True 14. False

 

Ferret Frenzy

Ferrets are fascinating! The following ferret facts will help you learn something new about these unique creatures.

  • Ferrets are not rodents. They are closely related to the weasel family Mustelidae
  • Ferrets are not new pets. Domestic ferrets were depicted in ancient Egyptian artwork dating back to 1400 BC.
  • The word ferret is derived from the Latin word furonem, meaning thief. Ferrets are often referred to as "little furry thieves."
  • Ferrets are known for their clownish personality. They love to play and explore.
  • Ferrets are carnivores and will consume 7-10 small meals per day.

 

Fun Facts

Fish Don't Have Eyelids:
They can't blink or wink or close their eyes. They sleep with their eyes open.

Mosquitoes Are The Deadliest  Animals: 
They can carry diseases such as malaria which kills more than a million people a year. They also carry heartworm disease which can be transmitted from dog to dog and make pets sick that haven't  had their heartworm preventative medicine.

Pigs are Smarter than Dogs.

Twelve Bat Species can be Found in Illinois!
These little night time visitors can consume 3000 insects in one night.

 

 

 
Amazing Animals

Facts about animals can be astounding! Fill in the blanks using the numbers below to find out how much you know about animals.
(* Answers below)

73   10,000   300   13    160   150   50

1. A robin can eat ________feet of         worms.

2. An ant can lift ________times its         weight. 

3. The giant sun fish lay _______          million eggs.

4. A flea can jump _____ times per        hour.

5. An anteater's tongue can zip in       and out _______ times per           minute.

6. A cockatoo may live for _____      years.

7. Only ______ of the 2,500 kinds of snakes are poisonous enough to be dangerous to humans.

Answers: 1. 13, 2. 50, 3. 300, 4. 10,000, 5. 160, 6. 73, 7.150

 

FURRY FUN!

Knotting your pet's ball in an old sock can make it more fun to grab, tug and pull.

Blow bubbles for your cat! Try a flashlight beam too!

Pets love to open presents! Put a treat in a paper bag and let your pet rip it open!

Many doll house furnishings make fun toys for birds!

Fish enjoy having things to swim through and hide behind.

Let your pet rodent find the last crumbs in a cracker or cereal box!

Rabbits and Guinea Pigs love sitting in and ripping up paper bags.

Wind-Up toys are fun for cats.

Make a treasure hunt for your dog! Your dog can follow a kibble trail that leads to a special treat or a kibble jackpot.

 

Top 50 Pet Names

  • Brandy
  • Rocky
  • Sheba
  • Bear
  • Pepper
  • Prince
  • Buddy
  • Nicky
  • Dusty
  • Maggie
  • Bandit
  • Sparky
  • Tasha
  • Annie
  • Barney
  • Sam
  • Ginger
  • Misty
  • Princess
  • Charlie
  • Buffy
  • Toby
  • Penny
  • Smokey
  • Duchess
  • Casey
  • Snoopy
  • Candy
  • Benji
  • Mickey
  • Max
  • Heidi
  • Muffin
  • Duke
  • Coco
  • Daisy
  • Rusty
  • Sandy
  • Molly
  • Teddy
  • Samantha
  • Lucky
  • Mandy
  • Spencer
  • Snowball
  • Roxanne
  • Tiffany
  • Pumpkin
  • Patches
  • Cinder