THE DOG NANNY
Guidelines For Safe Encounters Between Children and Dogs
With school out for the summer, chances are family dogs will be spending more time with the kids and their friends. While kids and dogs can be good for each other, some guidelines should be followed so that both are safe in each other other’s company.
First, it is not a good idea to leave young children and dogs alone together, even for a brief time. Things can happen quickly that can put the dog, the child or both at risk of injury.
A toddler can reach for the dog’s toy instead of her own, or grab the dog’s tail, either of which could result in a snap or bite. An easily excitable dog may jump on a small child and knock him down. Even when a child and dog seem to be getting along well, their interactions should be supervised to ensure that the behavior of neither one gets out of hand.
Second, children should be taught how to behave around dogs. This includes not only treating them with respect by not teasing them, throwing things at them or purposely harming them in other ways, but to also be aware of other behaviors that dogs may be uncomfortable with.
Quick hand movements toward the dog, yelling, running around and rough-housing can cause a variety of problem reactions from dogs. They may want to join in the fun by jumping and nipping, become frightened and snap to keep the children at a distance, or may also bite because they think a child needs protecting.
Third, dogs should be taught how to behave around children. Dogs should have pleasant experiences with children beginning in puppyhood so that they enjoy being around them. Dogs should also be taught to obey basic commands such as come, sit, and down. When positive reinforcement is used, such as a special tidbit, most dogs will respond to even young children.
Fourth, don’t assume that just because a dog is good with the children in the family, that she will automatically be accepting of visiting children. Visiting children should be introduced to the family dog gradually, using lots of tidbits and toys, and should always be supervised.
Lastly, children need to understand the importance of closing gates and doors to prevent the dog from getting out. While dogs should be taught not to door dash, it is not realistic to expect all dogs to resist the temptation to leave the yard when a gate is left open. For some families, a lock on the gate may be appropriate.
Summer can be a time for children and dogs to have lots of fun in each other’s company, but some preparations and precautions are also in order to prevent problems from occurring.
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Published by MarciaTheDogNanny
About Marcia – The Dog Nanny
Marcia is not new to dog training. She qualified as a professional dog training instructor in 1984 and gained behaviour certification in 1985. She has been around big dogs all of her life. She grew up in England with Harlequin Great Danes and as an adult began breeding and competed in confirmation, obedience and agility with her Dobermans.
She is a professional member with The Canadian Association of Professional Pet Dog Trainers (CAPPDT), The Pet Professionals Guild (PPG) and a Authorised Mentor Trainer for The Animal Behaviour College (ABC). Marcia is also a Canadian Kennel Club Member and the Director of Evaluators for Therapeutic Paws Of Canada.
As Certified Canine Behaviourist & Certified Professional Dog Training Instructor she stays informed by continuing to advance her current knowledge in the field and is familiar with the latest, most effective training techniques and equipment.
Marcia started breeding in 1985 and today breeds and competes in confirmation shows across Canada & the US with her Dogue de Bordeauxs.
She came to Canada in 1991 and resumed her private dog training and issue resolution business under the name “The Dog Nanny” in 1998. Prior to that her clients were from word of mouth only, and that’s where the idea for the Business name came as many clients said she was just like Jojo from the TV series Super Nanny only for dogs.
Due to the restrictions in local by-laws, she was unable to open her own Dog Training school in Innisfil, Ontario. Therefore, when she was asked by PetSmart, in Barrie, to come on board as the lead/head trainer, Marcia saw an opportunity to teach group classes and improve the standard of training. She was with PetSmart for 5 years. Due to company regulations Marcia had to attend PetSmart’s 2 week course, so has an additional certification in dog training as an Accredited Dog Trainer.
In September of 2011 Marcia met Claudia from Dogs Scouts Day Camp, and Claudia was kind enough to offer Marcia the use of her facility and grounds thus the beginning of The Dog Nanny’s Canine Training Academy. Marcia has had clients travel from as far as Orillia, Collingwood, Alliston, Vaughn and Newmarket to attend her classes there.
Marcia also volunteers for Therapeutic Paws of Canada (www.tpoc.ca) and has been the Director of Evaluators since 2004. Therapeutic Paws of Canada is a non-profit organization of volunteers providing animal Therapy for human needs (physical, mental, educational, motivational, socialization) through regular visits to hospitals, residences, schools. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life and health through the animal/human bond. Marcia speaks at all TPOC Events/Seminars some of which are open to the public and those in the Pet/Dog Industry.
Marcia is also a member of several web based groups as an Expert Panel member and has done several Web Conferences on Canine Behaviour and Training.
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