Understanding Your Dog’s Body Language

September 22, 2022 • Behavior Bytes CattleDog Publishing Newsletter Dogs I am a... Pet Owner Shelter Worker Student Trainer Veterinary Professional

By Samantha Zurlinden, Veterinary Student Class of 2023

This labrador appears relaxed, lying down and overall loose. Ears and eyes are in a neutral position and the facial features are relaxed. The tail is resting on the ground.
Photo Courtesy of VIN/Canto Library

Observing, understanding, and respecting body language is essential to strengthen and maintain the relationship with your dog. By understanding their needs, you can provide the best care and know when your dog is comfortable in a situation. Accurately interpreting body language can help you live safely with dogs and avoid behavior problems that could harm your relationship. 

By watching your dog, you will see them use their body position, ears, eyes, tail, lips, and vocalizations to communicate with you and the world around them. 

Relaxed Dog Body Language

A relaxed dog has “loose” body language. Their ears may be in a neutral position or forward if attentive and alert. Their eyes should be soft, not fixed on a particular object or staring. Their tail will be in a neutral position or wagging widely from side to side. Their mouth will look relaxed, not clenched or tense.  

Attentive Dog Body Language

In this photo, the same dog is still attentive, alert with forward ears but their overall posture is more tense. Their jaw is tightly closed, and lips are tense, possibly watching something worrisome.
Photo Courtesy of VIN/Canto Library

An attentive, alert dog holds their ears forward and upright. Evaluate your dog’s entire body since their ears are only a part of the picture. Your dog could be attentive and in a positive emotional state during a training session with forward ears and an upright tail. Instead, they could be hypervigilant to an approaching stranger with ears forward, looking around quickly and assessing their surroundings. A tucked tail may indicate anxiety. They may have a front paw lifted while deciding whether to move toward something or away from something. They may be watching a squirrel with their ears forward, eyes focused and staring, the tail up and only wagging slightly at the tip. Their hair may be standing along the midline of their back indicating a state of attentiveness.  

Fearful Dog Body Language

If subtle signs of fear and anxiety are recognized and addressed early, obvious signs of fear and aggression can be avoided.  If ignored, their body language may escalate because the dog learns their previous subtle signs are not effective, causing behavior problems and safety concerns. 

Subtle fearful signs include lip licking, facial tensing, hair raising especially along the midline of the back, ears positioned backward and flattened, and eyes wide open. They may avoid eye contact and the tail may be tucked under the dog’s body. 

A Final Note About Respecting Body Language

Consider safety first when signs of fear, anxiety, or aggression are seen. Punishment is not a humane or effective strategy and could potentially worsen the behavior problem. If you need help with managing these situations, work with a qualified behavior professional. Click on the link to learn more: How to Identify a Qualified Trainer or Behavior Professional. 

This dog is showing subtle signs of fear. The dog is licking their lips, and their ears are held back. Overall, the body appears tense.
Photo Courtesy of VIN/Canto Library

This dog is showing escalating signs of fear. Their body is tucked and tense with pinned back ears, tightly closed mouth, tucked tail, and wide eyes with an averted gaze.
Photo Courtesy of VIN/Canto Library

More obvious signs of fear and aggression include baring of the teeth, growling, snapping, or biting. Here, the dog’s ears are pinned back and the body is tense. Their eyes are wide open with the white part of the eye showing, known as “whale eye”. Although the tail is not seen in this photograph, it is likely either tucked under their body or upright.
Photo Courtesy of VIN/Canto Library

This dog is showing overt signs of aggression. Their teeth are bared, their ears are erect and forward, and their body is tense.
Photo Courtesy of VIN/Canto Library

A Game Changer for Reactive Dogs: Look At That (LAT)

February 28, 2025 • Dogs Pet Owner Shelter Worker Trainer

By Hannah Brehaut, CDBC, CCUI, CPDT-KA, LSHC-S

Look At That (LAT) is a pattern game created by Leslie McDevitt to help dogs signal when something in their environment is bothering them. Instead of reacting with fear or stress, your dog learns to locate the trigger and report it to you. This reduces anxiety by teaching your dog that they do not need to engage with things that scare them. LAT is also a great way to build confidence, especially if your dog has struggled with certain triggers before.

LAT helps you gauge your dog’s comfort level. The game can be taught in two ways: using matwork or a neutral object. For matwork, you will need:

  • A reward (e.g., treats)
  • A clicker (optional)
  • A cone
  • A mat or platform

Phase One: Introduce the Mat

  • Teaching Your Dog About the Mat:
     Start by scattering treats on the mat to encourage your dog to engage with it. Once your dog is eating on the mat, wait until they finish, then toss a treat off the mat. Repeat this process until they begin seeking out the mat for treats.
  • Capturing Sitting Relaxation:
    When your dog approaches the mat, wait to see if they offer a sit before sprinkling treats. If they do not sit, reward them with one treat and toss another off the mat to reset. Repeat until your dog sits calmly on the mat, and then sprinkle several treats. If necessary, go back to step one and practice until the sitting behavior is more consistent.
  • Capturing Lying Down Relaxation:
    Once your dog reliably sits on the mat, begin capturing the down position as they relax. When your dog lies down, reward them with a treat placed between their feet rather than scattering treats on the mat. This helps your dog associate the mat with a calm, relaxed state.

Two people working with a brown dog lying down on a mat

Wait for your dog to look at the helper before rewarding. Image courtesy of Hannah Brehaut, CDBC, CCUI, CPDT-KA, LSHC-S

Phase Two: Introduce Distraction with a Helper

In this phase, have a helper stand across the room and avoid interacting with your dog during the LAT training. The goal is for your dog to calmly remain on the mat in the presence of a distraction.

  • Set Up the Cone:
    Place the cone between the mat and the helper. Ensure your dog remains calm, lying on the mat with relaxed body language. If they become stressed with the presence of the cone or the helper, return to phase one.
  • Helper Moves to the Cone (referred to as Open Bar):
    Have the helper walk to the cone. When they reach it, continuously reward your dog with treats. Repeat this to create an association between the helper’s approach and rewards.
  • Helper Moves Away from the Cone (referred to as Closed Bar):
    When the helper moves away from the cone, stop rewarding your dog.

Phase Three: Wait for a Glance at the Helper

Once your dog understands the pattern of the helper approaching the cone, wait for them to look at the helper before rewarding. Use a clicker or “yes” to mark the behavior when they look at the helper and reward when they look back to you.

Phase Four: Introduce the “Where’s the ?” Cue

Start introducing the LAT cue by asking, “Where’s the person?” or “Where’s the helper?” when the helper approaches. Mark and reward your dog when they look at the helper and then at you. This builds the connection between the trigger (helper) and looks back to you.

Phase Five: Using LAT in the Real World

Start with familiar objects like “Where’s the leash?” or “Where’s the car?” to practice LAT with things your dog does not find stressful. Watch for your dog’s threshold (the point at which they can notice triggers without becoming stressed). Reward them for pointing out triggers to reinforce the behavior.

Two women work with two dogs on green grass

Give your dog an opportunity to look at the trigger. Image courtesy of Hannah Brehaut, CDBC, CCUI, CPDT-KA, LSHC-S

Two women work with two dogs on green grass

Reinforce your dog when they look back at you. Image courtesy of Hannah Brehaut, CDBC, CCUI, CPDT-KA, LSHC-S

Look At That (LAT) should be a relaxed reporting of the environment. If your dog appears excited or stressed and points out triggers to you multiple times, further mat relaxation work is needed until it is a solid foundation skill. By practicing LAT, you help your dog manage their reactions and build stronger communication skills between you and your pet.

Pet Poison Prevention

February 13, 2025 • CattleDog Publishing Newsletter Dogs Pet Owner Shelter Worker Student Trainer Veterinary Professional

By Shannon Emmons, DVM

Random colorful pills and capsules

Protecting Your Pets from Poisonous Hazards

Pets are naturally curious, which can sometimes get them into trouble. One of the most common emergencies veterinarians see is toxin exposure. Pets can accidentally ingest or come in contact with harmful substances, leading to serious health risks. Treatment depends on the toxin and may range from a simple outpatient visit to extended hospitalization. Knowing about common toxins and taking steps to prevent exposure can help keep your pets safe and healthy.

Common Toxins That Threaten Pets

Each year, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center identifies the top toxins that harm pets. The list includes many everyday items. Over-the-counter medications, like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and vitamins, are the most common culprits. Human foods, such as grapes, coffee, alcohol, and sugar-free gum containing xylitol, pose a serious threat to pets. Prescription medications, chocolate, and flavored veterinary products, such as chewable medications, are also dangerous when ingested.

2024 ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center’s List of Common Toxins:

Rank Category Examples Details
     1 Over-the-Counter Medications Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, cold medications, vitamins Harmful even in small amounts; common in many households
     2 Human Foods and Drinks Grapes, raisins, coffee, alcohol, xylitol (in sugar-free gum) Can cause severe health problems like kidney failure, seizures, or toxicity
     3 Human Prescription Medications Heart medications, inhalers, ADHD medications Serious risks if ingested, including heart or respiratory complications
     4 Chocolate All types, especially dark chocolate Contains theobromine, which is toxic to pets; darker varieties are more dangerous
     5 Veterinary Products Flavored chewable medications Overdoses can occur if pets consume too many due to their appealing taste
     6 Plants and Fungi Lilies (especially for cats), toxic mushrooms Can cause organ failure or severe reactions; lilies are particularly deadly for cats
     7 Household Products Batteries, preservative packets, cleaning supplies Dangerous if chewed or swallowed; can cause burns, poisoning, or choking
     8 Rodenticides Rat and mouse poisons Extremely toxic, even in small amounts, and can be fatal without immediate treatment
     9 Insecticides Improperly stored or used pesticides Can cause poisoning if ingested or inhaled; harmful if applied directly to pets.
    10 Recreational Drugs Marijuana (including edibles), psychedelic mushrooms Increasingly common; can cause vomiting, lethargy, tremors, or severe neurological symptoms

Plants and fungi, including lilies and toxic mushrooms, are frequent dangers, as are household items such as batteries and preservative packets. Rodenticides and insecticides can cause severe poisoning if eaten, and recreational drugs, such as marijuana and psychedelic mushrooms, are increasingly involved in poisoning cases.

Steps to Take if Your Pet Encounters a Toxin

If you suspect your pet has been exposed to a toxin, immediate action can save their life. Start by calling your veterinarian or the closest emergency animal hospital. They may direct you to a pet poison hotline for specialized advice.

In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend making your pet vomit to remove the toxin, but this should only be done under their guidance. If the toxin is on your pet’s fur or skin, wash it off with mild soap and water as soon as possible. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations and take your pet in for treatment if necessary. Prompt care can make all the difference.

Photo of large tan dog wearing a basket muzzle

Making Your Home Safer for Your Pets

Preventing poison exposure begins with proactive measures. Store medications, cleaning products, and dangerous foods in secure cabinets or areas that your pet cannot access. Be extra vigilant during busy times, such as holidays, when it is harder to keep an eye on your pet and their surroundings.

Block access to high-risk areas, such as kitchens and dining rooms with barriers such as baby gates. If your pet tends to scavenge during walks, consider training them to wear a basket muzzle to prevent them from picking up or eating dangerous items.

Teach your pet cues such as “drop it” or “trade up” to encourage them to release objects willingly in exchange for a reward, making the process positive and conflict-free. Pattern Games help build engagement, making it easier for your pet to focus on you in urgent situations, such as when a harmful item is nearby. Consistently practicing these techniques improves your pet’s reliability and keeps them safe from potential hazards.

Toxin exposure is a frightening experience for any caregiver, but taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the risks. By creating a safe environment, teaching reliable cues, and preparing for emergencies, you can protect your pet in unexpected and dangerous situations.

Pet Poison Hotlines (There may be a fee):

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435

Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661

Say No To Petting My Dog

February 13, 2025 • Ask LSH Dogs Pet Owner Trainer

By Pat Koven, BA, LVT, KPACTP, LSHC-S

Yellow sign reading "Caution"

Q: People often approach my dog to pet or hug him when we are on walks. I want others to respect his space and ask first, but I don’t know how to tell them no.

A: Dogs should not be forced to interact with people and other animals. Your dog does not need to tolerate strangers touching them. You should advocate for their right to space.  

Photo of white and brown dog wearing basket-type muzzle

Photo courtesy of Pat Koven, BA, LVT, KPACTP, LSHC-S

Many people are naturally drawn to dogs and want to pet and play with them. However, this can create stress and cause fear for your pet, who may prefer avoidance and distance. For most caregivers, it is difficult to be firm when saying no to strangers. You could start by saying something like, “He’s not feeling sociable today.” You may need to be more direct and forceful, putting up your hand to indicate stop and saying, “No, please don’t touch.”

Some ways to set boundaries include:

  • My dog is in training and cannot be distracted, but thank you.
  • My dog does not like being touched.
  • My dog is not feeling well today.
  • We are in a hurry.
  • My dog is nervous or reactive.
  • My dog has a contagious condition.

Using brightly colored leash wraps and patches for harnesses that say “stop”, “give me space”, or “reactive” can provide a visual stop to warn people off. Properly fitted and conditioned muzzles can be comfortable for your dog while creating a safety zone out in public. For the caregiver, shirts or utility vests can also display warnings of needing space.

Be prepared for resistance from those you have stopped from petting your dog, regardless of how polite you are. Even though a caution leash wrap or muzzle does not mean your dog is dangerous, you may receive questioning looks or comments.

Feline Enrichment: Meeting the Essential Needs of Cats

January 30, 2025 • Behavior Bytes Cats I am a... Pet Owner Shelter Worker Veterinary Professional

By Laura Cassiday, CCBC

Enrichment can be defined as something added to your cat’s environment that encourages them to engage in normal, natural behaviors. For cats, normal and natural behaviors include but are not limited to, playing, scratching, grooming, sniffing, and foraging. When cats are not provided with opportunities to do these things, they get bored. Boredom can lead to problems, including destructive behavior, aggression, and anxiety, among others.

Sensory-Based Enrichment Categories and Examples:

1. Olfactory (Smell): Cats have a keen sense of smell, often using it to explore their environment. A common example of olfactory enrichment is catnip. Cats may also enjoy silvervine and valerian. Any cat-safe plant or spice can be an interesting aroma for your cat to investigate. Your cat may also enjoy sniffing around in an “outdoor box” full of grass, leaves, or twigs that you bring inside from your yard.

2. Auditory (Hearing): Sounds can stimulate curiosity or provide calming effects in some cases. Your cat will benefit from hearing soundtracks with bird or nature sounds, toys that mimic prey sounds, or soft classical music or audiobooks for relaxation.

3. Visual: Cats are visual predators, easily stimulated by movement. Bird feeders outside windows can provide your cat with visual stimulation. Consider buying rotating toys that move or flash, using a laser pointer, and letting your cat interact with cat-specific apps on your phone or tablet.

4. Tactile (Touch): Cats use touch to explore, often through their whiskers, paws, and body. You can provide your cat with tactile enrichment by providing different textures of bedding or mats for resting and toys with various textures, from plush to crinkly. If your cat enjoys brushing, this is a great option. If not, provide surfaces for self-grooming.

5. Taste: Most caregivers tend to stick to the same brands and flavors of food for their cats. However, offering a variety in diet can be mentally stimulating. If your cat typically eats pate, try shreds. If they always eat chicken-based dry food, try a fish-based. Monitor your cat for signs of digestive issues and make transitions slowly. Cat-safe plants or grasses to nibble provide taste-based enrichment.

6. Cognitive: Cats need to exercise their brains just as they do their bodies. Short five-minute sessions using positive reinforcement can be just as enriching for your cat as a 10-to-15-minute play session. Your cat may also enjoy foraging with food puzzles or locating treats around the house in a scavenger hunt. If you have a particularly active cat, you may even want to try cat agility or nosework. 

Three kitties rest on a cat bed in front of a window

Image courtesy of Laura Cassiday, CCBC

How Do I Add More Enrichment Into My Cat’s Life? 

Enrichment does not have to take up a lot of your time. Try to come up with one new activity each day for your cat. Rotate through 10-15 activities throughout the year. Providing daily enrichment can be as simple as pulling up a chair to a window that your cat does not typically get to look through or taking your suitcase out of your closet a few days before a trip and leaving it open for your cat to play inside. These are things that take 30 seconds of your time but could give your cat hours of entertainment. Think about how simple your cat is to keep entertained with just a cardboard box or a bottle cap. Add variety, and you are all set.

 By understanding and implementing feline enrichment, your cat will be well-cared for and will thrive in their environment.

Grey tabby cat plays with a red-and-blue food toy

Image courtesy of Laura Cassiday, CCBC

Building Better Lives for Our Pets: The Five Freedoms, Provisions, and Domains

January 17, 2025 • Cats CattleDog Publishing Newsletter Dogs I am a... Pet Owner Shelter Worker Student Trainer Veterinary Professional

By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB

Photo image of orange and white kitty strolling through a veterinary reception office

Image courtesy of Riverside County Department of Animal Services

Animal welfare has improved with three important frameworks that guide caring for your pet and other animals in different settings. Whether you are a caregiver, veterinary professional, shelter worker, or trainer, understanding the Five Freedoms, the Five Provisions, and the Five Domains can help support the well-being of your pets. These frameworks address more than just basic needs; they help create safe, comfortable, and enriching environments for pets and shelter animals. By focusing on both physical and emotional needs, these guidelines help animals enjoy happier lives that fit their unique behaviors.

The Five Freedoms are the foundation of modern animal welfare. Created in the 1960s, these principles focus on meeting an animal’s essential needs:

  • freedom from hunger and thirst
  • freedom from discomfort, pain, or disease
  • the ability to express natural behaviors
  • freedom from fear and distress.

Addressing these needs helps animals feel safe and comfortable. Veterinary hospitals, shelters, trainers, and pet caregivers use the Freedoms to guide their care practices, promoting both physical health and emotional well-being. The Freedoms set a standard of care and remind us that every animal deserves comfort and security.

A veterinarian examines a grey kitty on an exam table

Image courtesy of LSU Community Practice

The Five Provisions expand on the Freedoms by turning these principles into everyday care for your pet. Each Provision is linked to a Freedom and shows what good care looks like. For example, the Provision for Suitable Nutrition emphasizes providing a balanced and enjoyable diet, not just enough food. This might mean adding healthy treats or using food puzzles to make meals more fun. The Provision for a Suitable Environment encourages creating cozy and engaging spaces, like a comfortable bed for your dog or a scratching post for your cat. In veterinary hospitals, soft lighting and quiet areas help pets feel less stressed. The Provisions give practical steps to support each Freedom, improving your pet’s quality of life and making care more rewarding for everyone involved.

Framework Model Provisions
Five Freedoms Freedom from Hunger and Thirst Stops hunger and thirst by making sure your pet has fresh water and a nutritious diet.
Freedom from Discomfort Gives your pet a comfortable living space with proper shelter.
Freedom from Pain, Injury, and Disease Keeps pets healthy and free from pain through regular veterinary care, including vaccinations and check-ups.
Freedom to Express Natural Behaviors Encourages pets to engage in normal behaviors, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
Freedom from Fear and Distress Creates a positive environment that helps your pet feel safe and secure.
Five Domains Nutrition Focuses on providing high-quality food and enjoyable feeding experiences.
Environment Makes sure your pet has a safe and engaging living space that meets their basic needs.
Health Emphasizes the importance of your pet’s overall physical health and its impact on their behavior.
Behavior Supports your pet’s normal behaviors and social interactions with you and other animals that enhance their quality of life.
Mental State Promotes your pet’s emotional well-being and lowers stress by providing freedom of choice and a feeling of safety.

Giving your pet the freedom to choose is also important for their mental health. A consistent daily routine helps pets know what to expect, which can reduce anxiety and frustration. When pets have some control over decisions, like where to rest or which toy to play with, they often feel more relaxed, which builds confidence. In shelters, quiet areas provide animals with a safe place to retreat. Caregivers can support mental health by using positive training methods and avoiding harsh punishments. Veterinary professionals who use Low Stress Handling® techniques help pets feel more comfortable during exams and treatments.

The Five Domains take these ideas even further, giving a complete picture of your pet’s well-being by covering both physical and mental health. Each Domain—Nutrition, Environment, Health, Behavior, and Mental State—focuses on how different aspects of care work together to keep your pet happy and healthy. The Nutrition Domain addresses, for example, not only the quality of your pet’s food but also their feeding routine. Feeding your pet at the same time every day adds predictability, which helps reduce anxiety and frustration. The Environment Domain focuses on safe, enriching spaces that are comfortable and interesting, such as hiding spots for cats, cozy blankets for dogs, or calming scents and pheromones in veterinary clinics to help lower your pet’s stress.

Jack Russell snuggles in an orange blanket

The Health Domain promotes preventive care, like regular wellness checks, pain management, and vaccinations, which keep pets healthy and allow for early detection and treatment of physical and emotional health issues. The Behavior Domain highlights the importance of allowing pets to express natural behaviors. Trainers and pet caregivers can support this through activities encouraging curiosity and play like interactive toys for cats or outdoor “sniff walks” and foraging activities for dogs. The Mental State Domain ties everything together by focusing on emotional health. Creating a predictable environment with choices for animals in shelters or veterinary hospitals makes a big difference in emotional well-being.

A brown and white dog sniffing the long grass

Image courtesy of Marta Knight

The Five Freedoms, Provisions, and Domains create a well-rounded approach to animal welfare that can be adapted to different settings. In veterinary hospitals, these guidelines help create a welcoming environment where your pet feels less stressed. The Freedoms cover basic needs, while the Provisions and Domains focus on wellness, preventive care, and emotional health. Shelters benefit from these frameworks by creating enriched spaces that address both physical and emotional needs, which can improve adoption chances. Trainers and behaviorists use these guidelines to design humane training programs that respect an animal’s need for engagement and natural behaviors. 

Together, these approaches make life better for your pet and every animal every day.

           

How Can We Teach Our Kids To Become Responsible Pet Caregivers?

January 17, 2025 • Ask LSH Dogs Pet Owner Shelter Worker Trainer

By Hannah Brehaut, CDBC, CCUI, CPDT-KA, LSHC-S

Photo image of little boy in green hoodie cleaning an orange lick mat with a white brush

Image courtesy Hannah Brehaut, CDBC, CCUI, CPDT-KA, LSHC-S

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 taught by a reputable trainer offers more than training for your dog; it is an opportunity for your children to learn how to interact with your 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. 

Photo image of a little boy in green hoodie pouring dog food into an orange bowl

Image courtesy Hannah Brehaut, CDBC, CCUI, CPDT-KA, LSHC-S

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 their dog unsupervised outside.
  • Secure Environment: Puppy-proof the home and yard, removing hazards like chemicals, sharp objects, or places where your puppy might get trapped. 
  • Identification: Talk about the importance of your 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 their puppy’s behavior so they can recognize excitement, fear, or discomfort. This can help your kids develop empathy for their 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.

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

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