Tag Archives: children and dogs

Like a child, your pup’s early experiences are the foundation of their future. You are literally BUILDING your puppy’s brain. Do it thoughtfully, but also patiently and lightheartedly.

Kids should be able to take on pet-care chores, as long as the child and the dog have the appropriate maturity and training for the specific tasks.

Some trainers (or television personalities) will tell you that you can teach your dog that your 6 year old is a “Pack Leader”. For the love of kibbles and bits! It’s good to help your child learn to give cues to the dog. Teaching a simple hand signal for sit is a great way for Read More

There are few bonds stronger than the one between a child and a dog. EPIC Pals (standing for Early Prevention Impacts Community) is a program that's taking advantage of that special relationship and helping both at-risk youth and shelter dogs. The program helps the kids improve their communication skills and better manage their emotions, preparing them Read More

New research shows that children with autism tend to develop strong bonds with dogs. This is particularly remarkable when you consider that many children with autism spectrum disorders have a hard time with social interactions and making friends. The judgment-free, pressure-free love of a dog can help autistic children form a bond not only with Read More

The Journal of the American Veterinary Association has released the most comprehensive study to date regarding fatal dog bites and the common factors that link them. The authors of the study found that there were some significant errors reported by the media in certain stories, so rather than relying on a potentially biased media source, Read More

It has been long accepted that physically disciplining a child through means such as spanking or hitting is detrimental to the child's emotional development and well-being. But what about harsh verbal discipline? A study was recently released that found children are more prone to depression and behavior problems if their parents resort to shouting or swearing at them when they misbehave.

Dogs make wonderful companions and need to be treated with care and respect.  Most dogs are very friendly and will not bite.  However there are some dogs that will bite for reasons such as fear, anger, frustration or protection.  It is vital that you recognize not just the signs that a dog is uncomfortable and Read More

Read Part I of this blog here. Parents and guardians need to be responsible for their dog at all times, without exception, and especially around children.  A child should NEVER be left unsupervised with any dog at any time and dog and child should only be together when a responsible adult can actively supervise.  This Read More

This week, I'm joining forces with State Farm, the American Veterinary Medical Association, the US Postal Service and other organizations to promote National Dog Bite Prevention Week.  Now more than ever, awareness needs to be raised about how to prevent dog bites from occurring.  If you're like me and are concerned about this issue, then the latest statistics will Read More