Fear Free Guidelines for Children and Puppies
Fear Free emphasises fostering safe, positive relationships between children and puppies to prevent fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) in dogs and reduce the risk of dog bites.
This approach focuses on education, supervision, and positive reinforcement to ensure harmonious interactions.
1. Educate Children on Canine Body Language
Children often struggle to recognise signs of fear or discomfort in dogs. A study highlighted that even when children identified a dog as fearful, 81% still attempted to approach it, increasing bite risk . Teaching children to understand and respect canine body language is crucial. fearfreepets.com
2. Supervise All Interactions
Never leave young children alone with a puppy. Supervision ensures that interactions remain safe and that any signs of stress in the puppy can be promptly addressed.
3. Promote Gentle and Calm Behaviour
Encourage children to interact with puppies using gentle touches and calm voices. Rough play or sudden movements can startle puppies, leading to fear-based reactions.
4. Avoid High-Arousal Games
Games like tug-of-war can escalate excitement levels, making it challenging for children to control the play. Fear Free advises that such games should be reserved for adults to prevent accidental bites. fearfreepets.com
5. Teach Respect for the Puppy’s Space
Children should learn to let puppies rest undisturbed and to avoid approaching them when they're eating or sleeping. Respecting a puppy's space helps build trust and reduces anxiety.
By implementing these guidelines, families can create a nurturing environment where both children and puppies feel safe and respected.
For more resources on fostering positive interactions between children and pets, visit Fear Free Happy Homes.