Children and Puppies | Puppy Connection

Is it OK to Have Children and Get a Puppy?

Yes. However, just please remember that once the novelty of the new puppy wears off, you are still responsible for the puppy.

Here are some questions to think about:

Do you have time to manage the family and the puppy?
Do you have the finances and energy for both?
Do you have room in the car for a puppy?
Do you really have the time?
Will you be ready to play at the end of a busy long day? He will be at home crated or in the vehicle crated waiting for your return and ready to play.
How old are your kids? Most kids are not ready to care for a dog until older and in school for a few years.

Photo is a bordoodle puppy from BFF Dog Training

Some Suggestions for Children and Dogs

When in doubt crate the puppy.
The person holding the leash is the one giving commands.
Never leave children alone with the puppy.
No one bothers the puppy while in his crate.
Set a timer to remind everyone it's time to potty the puppy.
No one sleeps in the puppy crate with the puppy.
No one wrestles, pulls on, slaps, jumps on, sits on, steps on, hits, pinches, tugs on the fur or tail, or rolls around on the floor with the puppy. Children need to be taught to be kind to animals and this is a good time to learn.
No toys on the bedroom floor if the puppy is in the child's bedroom. Toys, shoes, retainers, eyeglasses & clothes left on the floor could be destroyed by the puppy, and is not the puppy's fault. You should have been watching your puppy.
Never play with laser lights around or with your puppy or dog!

What Else Should I Know?

It’s hard for humans to understand that dogs do not like hugs. Teach your children to respect a dog and their wishes to not be hugged. It’s awesome that your child wants to show affection to your dog, so teach them to do it properly. Scratch a chin, do some grooming, rub an ear or belly. Many dogs love the one on one that comes with grooming. It is the parents' responsibility to teach children to interact appropriately and responsibility with puppies and dogs. Set rules and boundaries on your children and use them so that their relationship is good with the new family member.