Having a family with pets and children makes for very interesting days. Some of these days are fond memories but others are disasters! Having a 9 year old dog in our home, we have always tried to find ways for our children to initiate play with the pooch. Here are some ways that we have tried to help strengthen bond between child and fur-baby.
1. Have your child feed your dog
Dogs naturally look to their masters as their food source. While we think feeding our pets is just a mundane part of our daily routine, dogs view us as their sole provider. This article by Science Explorer lists several studies proving our dogs really view us as parents. Having your child feed the pet will reinforce this view. In addition, it will really engage your child and give them a sense of responsibility.
This doesn’t have to just be at mealtimes. If your child is asking for something to do, maybe they could give your dog some treats in exchange for some tricks. Just make sure they don’t eat the treats!
2. Arrange activities for your child and dog
Every dog loves to play (at least that we know of!) Having said that, “fun” varies from dog to dog and parents need to monitor these activities. This will hopefully wear out your kid and your fur-baby so they can sleep at night! Some examples of our children playing with our dog, Bruce, include:
- Tossing a ball outside
- Setting up a treat puzzle for your pooch
- Reading to your dog
- Hide and seek
Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Dog Brick Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy
- Great for reducing anxious dog behavior and redirecting destructive behavior
- Flip, lift, & slide to hide treats
- BPA, PVC & phthalate-free
3. Let your child brush doggo
This activity is a great way to teach both your child and dog to be calm. Moreover, if your child is younger, it teaches them how to use soft and gentle hands. Most of the time, we sit on our living room rug and brush Bruce’s fur with a deshedding tool. I found that this was therapeutic for all of us.
4. Go on a walk with both child and fur-baby
While this one should be only reserved for older children and well-trained dogs, it has been an amazing experience for our kids. They get to learn how to give commands and they also get to practice leading your pet in the direction they want to go! On the flip side, the dog will love all of the extra attention and gradually view your child as one of the leaders in the group.
5. Hike or backpack together as a family
While hikes are primarily for enjoying nature and getting some exercise, going on a hike together strengthens the bond between the dog and every member of the family. Larger dogs could wear a pack and help carry some of the family belongings as well.
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