Training a Dog for Children

It is an understatement to say that every family dog SHOULD be trained. Every family dog MUST be trained.

One of the most daunting tasks to take on when bringing a dog home to your children is “How will I train it?”

I’m going to outline several training methods that you might consider. It is imperative that you examine the methods available locally before making a decision. It is a sad fact that not all dog trainers are suitable – their methods and philosophies vary immensely.

The first thing to identify is what purpose your dog is to serve; protection, companion or work.

Guard Dog:

A protection (or guard) dog has to undergo specialized training by a qualified instructor. By doing research and asking questions you may determine that a guard dog would not be suitable as a companion dog. Or your instructor may assure you that the dog can handle both tasks. Usually it depends on the nature of the dog’s responsibilities, it’s temperament as well as the training process.

A professional trainer will be careful to determine when a dog’s nature is not suitable as a protection dog. An overly nervous or aggressive dog could pose a threat to your children even with training. Qualified instructors will watch out for this response.

Companion:

Most dogs join the family as companion dogs. While many dogs will naturally become ‘watch’ dogs – meaning they alert you to danger – they are not usually trained to be protection dogs.

Regardless, any dog in contact with children must have obedience training. You will find much controversy over the methods used for training companion dogs and you should look into which method suits your family and sensibilities.

There are three methods of training:

You train the dog yourself
A trainer trains the dog
You train the dog with the assistance of an instructor as a class

If you train the dog yourself you may be interested to try a non-punishment style of training as outlined by the ‘Puppy Wizard’. While you might find the style of writing a bit bizarre there are many who swear to his methods. The appeal of understanding your dog and creating an aggressive-free environment should be the aim of all dog owners – but is especially important for dog owners with children.

If you don’t think you have the patience to train your dog you might try sending the dog for humane training such as the services provided at Aldergrove Kennels. While not available in all areas you can use their guidelines when choosing a similar training arrangement.

If instead you choose to join a local class it is wise to make firm decisions on the style of training you will employ. While some trainers can give you advice on non-punishment styles of training others will insist that you use devices and techniques that use intimidation or pain to force the dog to follow your commands. This method may backfire if a dog obeys only through fear since it will undoubtedly realize that your children do not have the same control over them.

Working Dogs:

Whether the dog works on a farm or as a guide dog it will be the trainer who knows whether the dog should also be a companion dog. Most working dogs – especially guide dogs – make fantastic companions as well. However, depending on the nature of the dogs work it may not be suitable for a family with young children to consider as a family pet.

All working dogs usually have ‘handlers’ who work with them. Always check with the handler before allowing your children to play with the dog.

Owning a dog is always a responsibility that parents must take seriously. Not training your dog can be dangerous and risky for you, your children and family and friends. Taking the time to train your dog will give you peace of mind knowing your children are safe and your dog is happy. You can find out more about selecting the best dog for your children by reading 'Choose the Best Dog for Your Child' . This book will give you the basic steps required in choosing a dog for your family.

We wish you great happiness with your dog. Take the time to make the best possible choice by downloading the ebook 'Choose the Best Dog for Your Child' for $14.95 plus your FREE bonuses.

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