Living together of a child and a dog
Living with both a child and a dog can be quite the challenge for many parents, especially if you decide to bring home a hyperactive four-legged friend who has even more energy than your caffeine-fueled kid.
So, how do you start this coexistence? The first step is to find the right dog. No, I don’t mean getting a dog that behaves like a stuffed teddy bear and never causes any trouble. If that’s what you want, you might as well get a real stuffed teddy bear. By the right dog, I mean one that has a similar energy level and temperament to your child. If you have a calm child, choose a calm dog. But if your home is already run by a hyperactive whirlwind, look for a dog with matching energy. This kind of dog can play with your child for hours, giving you a much-needed break.
Another crucial thing is to teach your child how to properly interact with their new furry friend. Make sure your child understands that a dog is not a toy to be handled however they like. Teach them how to gently pet and play with the dog. It’s also important for the child to know that the dog has its own space and shouldn’t be disturbed when it’s resting. There’s nothing worse than a child waking up a sleeping dog by jumping on its belly.
But don’t worry, it’s not just about teaching the child. It’s equally important to train the dog on how to behave around the child. Especially if you have a newborn at home, you need to make it clear to the dog that this tiny human is not a toy and must be respected. If you’re unsure how to go about this, seek advice from a professional.
Finally, I’d like to emphasize that the coexistence of a child and a dog can be wonderful and full of love. Just follow some basic rules and teach both parties to respect each other. And most importantly, enjoy the time together!
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