Common Behavioral Issues with Dogs Around Children

 

Managing Common Behavioral Issues in Dogs Around Children

 Key Takeaways

• Address jumping and nipping by teaching alternative behaviors and providing ample exercise.
• Manage resource guarding by teaching commands like "drop it" and avoiding confrontational situations.
• Help fearful and anxious dogs feel more comfortable around children through gradual exposure and positive reinforcement.
• Seek professional guidance for addressing aggression in dogs and implement management strategies to ensure safety.

Introducing a dog into a household with children can bring about numerous benefits, but it can also present challenges, especially when it comes to managing behavioral issues. 

From jumping and nipping to resource guarding and fearfulness, understanding and addressing common behavioral issues in dogs around children is essential for maintaining a safe and harmonious environment for everyone.

Jumping and Nipping

Jumping up and nipping are common behaviors in dogs, especially when they are excited or seeking attention. To address these behaviors:

• Teach your dog alternative behaviors such as sitting or offering a paw for attention.
• Ignore jumping and nipping behavior, and only give attention when your dog is calm and composed.
• Provide plenty of mental and physical exercise to help channel your dog's energy in a positive direction.

Resource Guarding

Resource guarding occurs when a dog displays aggressive behavior to protect their food, toys, or other possessions. To manage resource guarding:

• Teach your dog the "drop it" or "leave it" command to relinquish objects willingly.
• Avoid approaching or touching your dog when they are eating or in possession of a prized item.
• Use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage your dog to share and relinquish objects without aggression.

Fearfulness and Anxiety

Some dogs may exhibit fearfulness or anxiety around children, especially if they haven't been properly socialized or have had negative experiences in the past. To help your dog feel more comfortable:

• Gradually expose your dog to children in a controlled and positive manner, using treats and praise to create positive associations.
• Provide your dog with a safe space, such as a crate or designated area, where they can retreat to when they feel overwhelmed.
• Work with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to develop a desensitization and counterconditioning plan to address your dog's fear and anxiety.

Aggression

Aggressive behavior in dogs can pose a serious risk, especially when children are involved. If your dog exhibits aggression towards children:

• Seek professional guidance from a certified dog behaviorist or trainer who specializes in aggression.
• Implement management strategies such as using baby gates or crates to separate your dog from children when necessary.
• Never leave your dog unsupervised around children, and teach children to respect your dog's boundaries and signals.

References:

1. "Understanding Dog Behavior." American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/understanding-dog-behavior
2. "Behavioral Problems in Dogs." American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/common-dog-behavior-issues
3. "Dog Behavior Problems: Nipping, Jumping, and More." WebMD. https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide/understanding-dog-problem-behavior