Toddlers and Dogs

[LizT]

My dh and I have both grown up with dogs and we are now in the situation where we can have one. Our ds is 2½ and he has had no contact with dogs due to there being none in the family. Contact is only via seeing dogs in the park which results in him being very wary and concerned if the dog comes too close. We are going to see our new puppy next week and we are still slightly hesitant in how he is going to react when we go and see it. We would then bring the puppy home in a month and are also worried about how he will cope with it in the house. Has anyone else had similar experiences, good or bad or any advice?

Thanks

LizT

Hi LizT - we have 2 dogs which are both brilliant with children (both children have grown up with them) But we have friends whose children are wary, but this is usually only for the first ten mins of any visit - then they are usually the ones who play most with the dogs.

I can only reassure that I am sure your ds will love the puppy (which breed btw?) in your home, as he will get used to it very quickly. Involve him in buying stuff for the puppy and treat it almost like a new baby - it could arrive with a present for your ds

But I would advise you to decide from day one where puppy's things are kept etc - so that your ds knows what the rules are (e.g. letting puppy rest in the day; not to take his toys from him etc).

Have fun

No problem whatsoever provided you teach both dog and child that both need to respect each other's space, naps and the pair understand that the other one is not a toy.

We had the dogs long before we get DS and were very woried about how they would interact with him, but they have been fine, if we always keep an eye on them is to avoid DS pulling their ears, legs, or hair. They are very good with him and seem to understand perfectly that DS is a human puppy and are very tolerant, but I'm sure that as any animal if they are hurt badly the first reaction would be to bite back, so better to keep an eye on both toddler and dog to avoid problems.

Or almost 3 year old and dog (got him a month ago) are getting along famously, even though ds can be too much at times, takind dog's toys, trying to get into his bed etc. I know it must depend to some extent on the temperament of the dog but we have had no worries whatsoever

Have just realised your post was a few weeks ago! Did you get your dog? What breed are you looking for?