Dogs, like children, are part of the family. But no matter what the dog’s temperament, families with young children should take some important safety precautions.
For the children’s safety and the dog’s, it’s crucial that they learn how to play nicely with each other. Here are some suggestions:
* Choose the right breed and personality. Generally the large breeds – labrador and golden retrievers and standard poodles – are tolerant of kids. But each dog is an individual, so ask the breeder or rescue shelter about the dog’s personality before you purchase or adopt.
* Understand the pet’s behavior. Pets can become upset by too much stimulation. The Humane Society of the United States recommends teaching your kids to heed warning signs like hissing or lip curling, which indicate the animal wants to be left alone.
* Teach the kids good manners. They should never disturb the dog while it’s eating, taking a nap or playing with its favorite toy.
* Keep your pet calm. Some dogs get very excited and agitated when confronted by lots of kids. And older dogs can be frightened by the high-pitched sounds...