Introducing dogs and kids can be a joyous experience, but it's essential to ensure their interactions are safe and positive. Here are some supervision tips to help foster a harmonious relationship between your furry friend and your little ones.

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Our Top 10 Tips for supervising dogs & kids

Introduce Slowly: When bringing a new dog into a household with children, introduce them gradually and under controlled circumstances to allow both parties to get accustomed to each other.

Teach Respect: Educate children on how to interact with dogs respectfully, including gentle petting, avoiding rough play, and understanding when to give the dog space.

Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries for both dogs and children, such as designated play areas and no-go zones for the dog, to prevent conflicts and ensure safety.

Supervise Interactions: Always supervise interactions between dogs and children, especially during the initial stages of their relationship, to intervene if necessary and prevent any potential accidents.

Educate on Dog Body Language: Teach children to recognize and respect dog body language cues, such as wagging tails, flattened ears, or growling, indicating the dog's mood and intentions.

Provide Safe Spaces: Create safe spaces where the dog can retreat if they feel overwhelmed or need a break from interaction with children, such as a comfortable bed or crate.

Teach Proper Handling: Show children how to handle dogs safely, including supporting the dog's body when picking them up and avoiding sudden movements that may startle or frighten the dog.

Encourage Positive Reinforcement: Encourage children to use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, to reward the dog for good behaviour and reinforce their bond with each other.

Supervise Meal Times: Ensure children do not disturb the dog during meal times and vice versa, reducing the risk of food-related conflicts or accidents.

Lead by Example: Be a role model for children by demonstrating responsible pet ownership, kindness, and empathy towards animals, fostering a culture of respect and compassion.

From the experts: Teach children to always ask for permission from an adult before approaching or interacting with a dog, even if they know the dog well. This helps reinforce the importance of respecting both the dog's boundaries and their own safety.

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