Getting a Puppy

Getting a puppy is an exciting time for children. It can be an event they will remember forever. Before you get your pup, do a little prep. Your children need to know how to treat a new puppy for their safety and for the safety of your new puppy.

Prep Work

Books and the web are great resources for information on your new puppy. Start with a basic set of rules. Explain that they shouldn’t pick up the dog. Kids often see no difference between a real dog and their stuffed animals. Take time to explain that a real puppy squirms when you pick it up and how dropping a new puppy can hurt them.

Also explain that the dog could be spooked by sudden movements and that the best way to approach a puppy is calmly and slowly.

Take your children shopping for pet supplies. By helping you shop for food, bedding, toys, water bowls, ect., they will start to understand that a puppy is a living thing that needs a great deal of care.

When the puppy arrives

This can be an emotional time for your child. They are going to be very excited and your puppy might be a little scared. Bring the dog into your home and hold the dog while your children approach. Let them pet the dog calmly and slowly. If the puppy responds positively, give them a little more freedom to explore, perhaps in a gated-off area.

Always supervise very young children around a puppy. Make sure your children leave the puppy alone while eating or sleeping. And, tell them not to put their face in front of the puppy. You don’t want a playful puppy to bite or scratch your child unintentionally.

Lastly, if you think your puppy has behavior problems seek the assistance of a professional .