1. My kids have grown up around dogs their entire lives and have no fear.
Just because your child has had good experiences around your family pet doesn’t mean every dog out there will react the same to your kids. Parents need to teach kids to admire dogs for their looks, breeds, and temperament. All dogs do not need to be ambushed and petted by your child. I know many parents teach their kids to ask before petting, but that is not enough. You’re asking a stranger if their pet is friendly on top of it being a strange dog you have never met. You could potentially be putting your child at risk, but more importantly, you are giving your child the impression that all dogs are safe to approach. Parents need to become more responsible for child safety around dogs, do this by educating themselves. Teach your kids what to do if a loose dog runs up to them. Tell them not to walk up to a dog that is tied up. Discuss with them about body language to watch for in dogs, so they know if a dog is getting uncomfortable or stressed.
2. My dog is amazing with my toddler. He lets her pull his ears and jump on him all the time.
All dogs handle stress differently, and all dogs are capable of biting. This story is from a mother who has experienced with her child the worst thing that can come from allowing your child to pull at your dog’s ears.
Mother tells a courageous story about dog bite responsibility
Teach your kids how to interact with your family pet properly. Some examples are calm petting while watching TV, having responsibilities such as feeding or playing ball with the dog, and helping out with grooming needs such as baths or brushing. Respect your dog’s space and recognize when showing body language signs such as avoidance or displacement behaviors. These are your most significant indicators; your dog is getting uncomfortable or stressed.
3. My dog lets my kids play with his food while he’s eating.
Food and water are resources for a dog. Your dog should be allowed their space to eat and drink without stress. From a dog training standpoint, just because your dog allows your child to play with their food doesn’t make their relationship with that child stronger. It also doesn’t prevent the dog from potentially guarding the resource.
4. My dog is so well tempered I trust him alone with my kids.
Dogs are animals, and animals can be unpredictable. Respect the breed of dog you have and understand the characteristics of that breed. There is nothing to prove in this area, especially when it comes to the safety of your child or their friends. Children and dogs should never be left alone unsupervised.
For more information about dogs and kids, stream Dogs to Diapers.
