Hi guys, I was wondering if anyone had any advice or resources about how to train your pup to be more careful around children? Zulu is only 8 weeks, but when he is around the kids (1.5 and 3.5 years old), he gets very excited and often jumps up on them or starts tugging at their clothes. This is also done if the kids have their backs to Zulu. There is no malice in it, but I just want to know what to do in that situation. It might be a simple as telling Zulu in a loud and firm manner to "STOP" or "THATS NOT NICE", or getting himn to sit by offering some kibble (but i dont always have kibble close by when needed) It might be as simple as carry some kibble on me and Look forward to hearing from you guys. Cheers, Robbie
Re: Puppies and toddlers I forgot to add...the idea of getting a puppy was for the kids to be comfortable with dogs, so i dont want them to be frightened of Zulu.
Re: Puppies and toddlers If he's still grabbing at them when they turn around then aiming to get a 'sit' instead is the best plan. Carrying some kibble and also having kibble in small bowls around the house is a good idea. Then it's within reach. Shouting often just makes them more excited, or startled (which is a negative thing that you don't want associated with the kids). Just alert any party guests to the fact that the stuff in the bowls is dog kibble and not an hor d'oeuvres.
Re: Puppies and toddlers I taught my 3 year old Granddaughter to be a shoot. Stand up straight and still and cross her arms across her body so there are no enticing bits like fingers dangling out. Works OK while the puppy is small. Unfortunately now Molly is 6 months old she is still very bouncy and could knock Alicia flying so I put her on a house line when little ones come to visit.
Re: Puppies and toddlers I have a nephew who has just turned 4. When we got Harley I taught him to get her to sit and reward her. He loves doing this and she now follows him everywhere (minus the jumping ). Might be worth teaching your 3.5 year old some basic commands - it will also help build a bond between them
Re: Puppies and toddlers [quote author=Oberon link=topic=5057.msg63385#msg63385 date=1395734600] If he's still grabbing at them when they turn around then aiming to get a 'sit' instead is the best plan. Carrying some kibble and also having kibble in small bowls around the house is a good idea. Then it's within [/quote] Iv actually started doing this
Re: Puppies and toddlers Like Tina, we did "be a tree" or "be a stone". And absolutely definitely never in a million years, let the kids wander around with food in their hands. Nope, No, not good. And remember hyper kids are likely to result in hyper dog, so at home times, or exciting times, pre-empt it if you can and consider popping Zulu into his crate or "play-room" until things are calmer.
Re: Puppies and toddlers I have started to teach my 3.5 year old daughter the 'sit' command with Zulu (using kibble). It normally starts well, but then Zulu starts getting a little 'stroppy', so I end the game immediately
