Kids and Dogs: The Do’s and Don’ts Every Family Should Know

Dogs and kids can be a magical combination—best friends, adventure buddies, and partners in mischief. But that relationship doesn’t happen automatically. It takes guidance, boundaries, and a little education on both sides (yes, dogs count as “students” too).

Whether you’re bringing a dog into a home with kids or helping kids interact safely with dogs they meet, these do’s and don’ts will set everyone up for success.

Why Teaching Kids About Dogs Matters

Most dog bites involving children aren’t caused by “bad dogs.” They’re caused by fear, misunderstanding, or stress—often when a child didn’t know how to read a dog’s signals. Teaching kids respectful behavior around dogs protects both the child and the dog.

A calm, informed child + a well-trained, supported dog = a safer, happier household.

The Do’s ✅

Do teach kids how to greet a dog

Show children to:

• Ask permission before petting a dog

• Let the dog sniff their hand first

• Pet gently on the chest or shoulder, not the face or tail

This helps dogs feel safe and respected from the start.

Do supervise all interactions

No matter how gentle your dog is, young kids should never be left alone with a dog. Accidents happen fast, and supervision allows adults to step in before stress escalates.

Do explain dog body language

Teach kids simple warning signs, like:

• Yawning, lip licking, or turning away

• Tucked tail or stiff posture

• Growling (this is communication, not “bad behavior”)

Understanding these signals helps kids know when to give a dog space.

Do give dogs a kid-free safe zone

Every dog needs a place to retreat—like a crate, bed, or quiet room—where kids are not allowed to follow. Teach kids that when a dog is resting, it’s “off duty.”

Do involve kids in dog care (age-appropriate)

Simple tasks like:

• Filling the water bowl

• Helping with walks

• Tossing treats during training

This builds empathy and teaches responsibility while strengthening the bond.

The Don’ts ❌

Don’t allow rough play

No riding, pulling ears or tails, hugging tightly, or wrestling. What looks like “cute play” to adults can feel threatening to a dog.

A good rule for kids: If you wouldn’t like it done to you, don’t do it to the dog.

Don’t disturb dogs while eating or sleeping

Many dogs instinctively guard food or react when startled awake. Teach kids to give dogs space during meals and naps—always.

Don’t force interaction

If a dog walks away, hides, or avoids contact, that’s a clear “no.” Kids should learn that animals, like people, get to choose when they want affection.

Don’t assume all dogs are kid-friendly

Even friendly dogs may be nervous around children. Remind kids that every dog is different—and that calm, respectful behavior is always safest.

Don’t punish dogs for warning signals

Growling or moving away is a dog’s way of saying “I’m uncomfortable.” Punishing these signals can make a dog skip warnings entirely and go straight to snapping next time.

Tips by Age 👶🧒

Toddlers (0–3):

• Focus on supervision and gentle touch

• Keep interactions short and calm

• Model correct behavior constantly

Young Kids (4–7):

• Teach basic rules and body language

• Practice greeting dogs safely

• Reinforce giving dogs space

Older Kids (8+):

• Involve them in training and care

• Teach them to advocate for the dog (“He needs a break”)

• Encourage respectful, confident interaction

Final Thoughts

Dogs and kids can grow up together in a beautiful, enriching way—but only when adults set clear expectations and teach mutual respect. By guiding kids on how to treat dogs kindly and helping dogs feel safe around kids, you’re building trust, preventing accidents, and creating lifelong friendships.

A little education goes a long way—for wagging tails and smiling faces 🐾💛