Preparing Kids For A New Family Dog
Bringing home a new dog is exciting for kids, but some preparation will help the adjustment go smoothly. Follow these tips to set expectations, spark enthusiasm, and ensure safe interactions when adding a four-legged friend to your family.
Why Dogs are Beneficial for Kids
Beyond being fun and cuddly companions, dogs provide important benefits for children:
- Teach responsibility through pet care tasks like feeding and walking
- Encourage gentle behavior and empathy through training
- Boost mood, reduce stress and anxiety
- Motivate kids to move more and be more active
- Help kids learn about animal behavior and body language
But introducing a new dog takes some planning and effort to set everyone up for success.
Setting Expectations
Before adopting, have age-appropriate discussions about:
- The commitment involved in caring for a dog for life
- Daily responsibilities like feeding, exercise, training
- Cost considerations of food, medical care, supplies
- Dogs needing time to adjust to new home and family
Making expectations clear prevents kids from losing interest when the novelty wears off.
Building Excitement Together
Get your kids eagerly anticipating the new arrival by:
- Looking at adoptable dogs together online
- Having kids help pick out toys, treats, food bowls, beds
- Reading books and watching shows about dogs as a family
- Thinking of name ideas and making a welcome home sign
This builds empathy, investment, and important background knowledge.
Teaching Gentle Handling
Practice the following skills with your kids:
- Petting softly - no pulling tail/ears
- Holding leash safely without wrapping around body
- Role playing feeding, walking, training positively
- Speaking calmly and avoiding sudden moves
This prevents scary interactions that could provoke bites.
Puppy Proofing Your Home
Before adoption day:
- Put away breakables and valuables
- Secure loose cords, tuck away medications
- Remove toxic houseplants
- Install baby gates and close off unsafe areas
This removes temptations and hazards for curious puppies.
Preparing for the First Day
On adoption day:
- Set up food/water bowls, collar, bed
- Plan calm introductions to children and home
- Take outside often to avoid accidents
- Provide a safe confinement area when unsupervised
Careful planning reduces overwhelming stimuli during initial adjustment.
Maintaining Open Communication
- Check in regularly on how kids are feeling about dog responsibilities
- Provide ample praise for efforts and participation
- Remind gently of rules and schedule if needed
- Encourage expressing concerns and asking questions
This allows you to provide support and resolve any issues.
FAQs
How can we help our new dog bond with the kids?
Let the kids help with feeding, grooming and training. Have them give treats and toys to establish positive associations.
What are signs our dog is uncomfortable with the kids?
Whining, hiding, tucking tail, moving away, growling, snapping are warnings. Remove dog from situation and teach kids proper interactions.
How do I know if my kids are ready for a dog?
Look for demonstrated maturity, empathy, and ability to follow pet care instructions. Wait if kids still need frequent reminders about responsibilities.
Preparing kids for a new dog takes time and patience, but the effort creates a smooth transition that leads to years of affection and fun.