Puppies are naturally playful. They like to jump and run around crazy, just like kids. Kids can be excited by a puppy’s active personality and many will want to join in on the fun, where some may be intimidated by it. However, inappropriate interacting with a puppy while it is playing can lead your puppy to be aggressive with your child.
If your dog is very playful or likes jumping around, do not let your children push or shove him, playfully or otherwise - Dogs will naturally fight for dominance and push back. As the play continues, the pushing back will increase as the puppy fights for dominance.
If your dog is excited and jumping around, you must find a way to settle the dog immediately, and ensure the children understand not to encourage or excite the dog. If the dog hears yelling or even giggling uncontrollably, they can interpret this noise as encouragement.
Make sure to teach your children to never touch or grabbing a dog's tail or paws - The reason for this is simple. Your dog cannot see what is behind him, so he will act defensively and instinctively to someone sneaking up behind him. If your child grabs your dog's tail, you may find your dog doing something completely out of character such as biting or attacking the child. The main point of this rule is general respect and understanding that like humans, your dog can easily be startled.
Teach children that tug of war and similar games are inappropriate - These games are focus on dominance and are a strength competition.
Because children get excited when playing with their dog, they will often overlook when a dog is becoming aggressive, not only creating an extremely dangerous environment, but also generally encouraging aggressive behavior in everyday life.
Never teach your dog attack commands. If you adopted your dog from a shelter, you might just find out when using an attack command that they were taught it in their previous placement which can lead to serious issues for you. There is no need ever to teach a dog to attack unless it is being used for law enforcement issues. A dog will naturally protect its owner and family if there is danger. There is no need for attack commands ever with a family pet.
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