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Dogs and children living in harmony

If your dog has been well socialised with children from an early age, then this should prevent any aggressive behaviour and your pet and child should become the best of friends. However, even the most child-friendly dog may react when subjected to excessive tail, eye and ear pulling and poking, if accidentally fallen on or unexpectedly woken up from a deep sleep. If your dog is in pain, too hot or unwell this may reduce his tolerance levels further. For this reason you should never leave your dog alone with a child, even for a minute. 

As a dog owner with children you will need to remember:
• Don’t allow your children to feed the dog leftovers from the table. Your dog may be better left in another room whilst the family is eating.

• Make sure that your child washes his hands after stroking your dog and before eating.

• Keep your dog’s flea and worming treatments up to date and always pick up poo immediately from the garden and areas where your children play.

• Make sure that your dog has a quiet area of his own where your children are not allowed to bother him. Every dog needs a break from noise and playing from time to time. 
 
Most dogs are great with children and when problems do occur this is often down to the child not being taught how to act around dogs properly and treat them with respect.

All parents should teach their children the following rules:
• Don’t pat or play with a dog, unless the owner says you can. Always ask the owner before approaching the dog.

• Never rush up to a dog. Hold out your hand and let him come to you. If he doesn’t want to come to you, leave him be.

• Don’t stare into a dog’s eyes.

• Try not to make sudden movements or loud noises as you may frighten him!

• If a dog growls at you, or is unfriendly, stay calm and slowly walk away. Don’t run!

• Never take a dog for a walk on your own. Always ask an adult to come along with you. In an emergency, you might need help to control the dog.

• Don’t disturb or approach a dog if he is eating, drinking or is tied up.