R.E.S.P.E.C.T. for kids and dogs!

I get phone calls almost every day from parents who are concerned about a new puppy nipping or jumping on the kids. There are lots of things you can do to help puppies and kids have the best possible relationship, and we always start with RESPECT!

R.eady for puppy - prepare kids for a new dog by teaching them the best ways to interact with the dogs.

E.ating - provide complete separation between kids and dogs when the dog is eating as well as when the kids are eating.

S.upervision - 100 percent supervision between kids and dogs. An accident can happen in a heartbeat! Don't ever leave a young child alone with a dog.

P.etting - remind kids to pet their dog from collar to butt, and no hugs, kisses, or laying on the dog!

E.nergy - encourage kids to have a calm energy around dogs! Running and screaming can either rile a puppy up or frighten them. If kids want to play with a high energy, put the puppy in the crate or practice some training away from kids.

C.rate - use the crate to separate the dog and kids when necessary! It's important for kids to stay out of the crate or off the dog bed so that the dog knows they have a safe place to get away from kids if necessary.

T.raining - involve kids in training their dog!

#dogtraining