Thinking of getting a dog? Here’s what you need to know

Dogs are a wonderful addition to any family and often make perfect companions for children. Getting a dog is a bit like inviting another family member into your home. While dogs can be rewarding, some factors need to be considered before getting a furry friend, especially if you have younger children. Here are a few helpful tips:

Good to know

Never get a breed of dog because it is popular. Different breeds can feature particular traits and may need specific requirements. Research the breed you’re interested in and look at what dogs interact well with kids at your local park or friends’ and family’s homes. Generally, big- and medium-sized dogs are suited to families with younger children, as larger breeds tend to be more docile, but there are a few smaller breeds that also can make the perfect addition to your family.

Dog breeds that are good with children

Some dog breeds are more suitable for older children, while others are great with toddlers. The best way to know which breed would be best suited to your family is to do your research first. Look at each breed you’re interested in and then determine:

• The exercise requirements
• The grooming requirements
• The temperament
• The trainability of each breed

Once you’ve narrowed it down to a few breeds, then talk to some experts on those breeds. You can go to a dog show and talk to breeders, or use our web site and call people from the national club.  

Adoption options

If you would like to adopt a certain breed, there are breed-specific dog adoption agencies. Also, check out Facebook, as most breeds have their own Facebook groups.

Mixed breeds and rescue dogs

Don’t exclude mixed breeds as they can exhibit the best traits of each breed. Adopting a dog also provides a pet with a forever home. Visit your local SPCA’s website or google “pet adoption (your area)”.

3 Tips for introducing toddlers to dogs

Toddlers are likely to pull ears and tails, ride dogs, grab dog toys, interact with your dog in ways it may not be used to, and, in some cases, even try and steal their food and crawl into their beds! It is important to prevent this behaviour by doing the following:

1. Teach your toddler to be gentle with the dog: Show her that dogs like to be petted on their heads and stroked on their bodies, enjoy belly rubs and that the tail is a no-go zone. Practice this daily and reward appropriate behaviour.
2. Always supervise younger children around pets: Install baby gates to keep your pet and toddler separate. This way, they can still see each other but also have their own space.
3. Pay close attention: Most dog bites occur between children and animals that they are familiar with. If your dog starts to behave unusually and your toddler is annoying it, intercept immediately. Dogs only have so much patience, and if pushed to their limits, will snap or bite.