Q:  We are ready to add a puppy to our family. How can we teach our kids to become responsible caregivers?

A.  Bringing a puppy into the family is a wonderful way to teach children about responsibility, empathy, and the importance of routine animal care. Helpful tips include: 

1. Attend a well-run puppy class: A puppy class offers more than training for your dog; it is an opportunity for your children to learn how to interact with the new puppy safely and positively. They will gain experience in understanding behaviors, canine communication signals, house training, and handling exercises. Classes should include the entire family so everyone follows the same routines and has similar expectations.

2. Teach the importance of daily exercise and enrichment:  Explain to your kids that puppies need daily physical and mental exercise. Whether it is a walk, a game of fetch, or scent-based activities like sniffing, your puppy’s needs must be met to ensure healthy behavior. Encourage your children to participate by allowing them to help with walks, playtime, or setting up interactive toys. Make sure they understand that every dog has different energy levels, and sometimes, a more relaxing activity is as valuable as an energetic one.

3. Involve kids in daily tasks: Involving your children in the routine will help them feel a sense of ownership and responsibility. Some appropriate tasks under adult supervision include:

• Feeding: Let them measure food or prepare chew toys.
• Cleaning: Help them clean up the puppy’s living area or wipe down toys.
• Training: Children can participate in basic training, such as teaching about capturing desirable behaviors. 
  

4. Emphasize safety and proper care: Make sure your children know how to keep the puppy safe and healthy. This includes:

• Leashing: Teach the importance of using a leash and not leaving the dog unsupervised outside.
• Secure Environment: Puppy-proof the home and yard, removing hazards like chemicals, sharp objects, or places where the puppy might get trapped. 
• Identification: Talk about the importance of the puppy always wearing an ID tag with your contact information in case they get lost.

5. Foster companionship and empathy: Puppies are family members. Teach your children to communicate with their dog in ways that promote respect and kindness. Encourage them to observe the puppy’s behavior so they can recognize excitement, fear, or discomfort. This can help your kids develop empathy for the puppy’s needs. Signs of discomfort or illness are important to recognize. Teach children to look for changes in the puppy’s behavior, such as a lack of appetite, changes in sleep patterns, or signs of pain, so that they know when to alert an adult.

6. Lead by example: Children learn by observing adults. Practice good pet care behaviors, show your children how you responsibly meet the puppy’s needs and provide love and patience. Your actions will reinforce the lessons you are teaching them.

By including your children in your puppy’s care and helping them understand the commitments and joys of having a dog, you will lay the foundation for responsible, compassionate pet ownership. Not only will they learn practical skills, but they will also form a deep bond with their new family member.