How to Keep Pets Behaved Around Children

Children can be loud, energetic and tend to make sudden movements that can startle animals. Your pet may not understand where this noisy addition fits in the household chain of command. However, with some basic training, you can keep your pets behaved and help them to enjoy the youngest members of your family.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Collar and leash (for dogs)
• Treats

1. Prepare pets for the arrival of a new baby by bringing home a blanket from the hospital that smells like the baby.

2. Introduce your pets to children while they are on a leash to maintain proper control. Do not allow your children to approach the pet first.

3. Allow pets to approach and smell your child when the animals are ready. Don't force anything.

4. Keep treats nearby to reward good behavior. If you have older children, allow them to give the pet a treat and to show gentle affection.

5. Besides walking your dog, exercise the pet regularly (every day for at least 20 minutes). Dogs with excess energy tend to misbehave.

6. Allow the pet undisturbed time to eat. Keep your children away from the feeding area during that period.

7. Give your pet an area that is off limits to the children. Even your pet needs quiet time. You can also use this spot as a "time out" area for your pet if he gets overly excited or if he behaved inappropriately.

8. Teach your children the appropriate way to behave around animals. Children should always treat animals with respect. Teach them to be gentle with your pets and to be cautious around unknown animals.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider obedience training for dogs to teach them basic commands and techniques. Proper training can teach your pet the appropriate way to behave in unfamiliar or stressful situations.
• Regardless of your animal's temperament, monitor all interactions between your children and pets. Even the mildest animal can react aggressively if he is made to feel uncomfortable or threatened.
• Pay attention to warning signs from your pet to indicate he is feeling uncomfortable or threatened. This can include growling, snarling, hissing or running away. Immediately remove your animal from the environment if he has behaved inappropriately.
• Seek help from a pet behaviorist if your animal shows aggression or other unwanted behavior around children.