Dislikes Children

Children are fast, loud and generally have no appreciation for your dogs nap and eating times. Why shouldn’t they be afraid or dislike them? The rule of thumb with children and dogs is, if the dog is in his crate or in his special spot, leave him alone. That means, no talking, poking, playing or waking the dog. Dogs need to know that they can have a “Time Out” whenever they need it too. If children are allowed to molest the dog at will, the dog will become frustrated. He will start to feel desperate for space and may lash out, or become an introvert to get it.

To help a dog get over his dislike of children, the children must ignore him. He cannot feel threatened in any way, even if it’s just an invasion of his body space. Have the children walk casually through the room, say “Hi Rex”, place a treat on the floor and leave the room. Rex will probably ignore the treat for a week, but soon he will start to look forward to the children passing through the room.

Another method is to buy a wire crate and crate him in the childrens quiet play space. This will force him to deal with his issues and learn that children are okay. Again, the children shouldn’t acknowledge the dog. You always want what you can’t have so let him want the children’s attention. You’ll know when it’s time to add praise and moderate attention. Use your common sense.