he human-animal bond is the very foundation of veterinary medicine—it’s the reason pet parents prioritize their animals’ health, creating the need for veterinary care. Conversely, veterinarians play a pivotal role in preserving and strengthening that bond, and this is especially important in families with children.
The arrival of a child in a home with a dog can be a turning point, as it can strain even the strongest of bonds between a pet parent and pet. When kids enter the picture, the dynamics in a household shift, sometimes creating stress for dogs, resentment for parents and, ultimately, a strain on the human-animal bond.
As a result, we often hear the heartbreaking phrase: “I need to rehome my dog.” Helping to prevent this outcome is not just about saving the dog from being surrendered; it’s about reducing dog bite incidents and ensuring a happy and safe home for the whole family (dogs included).
While proper preparation and education can foster a stronger human-animal bond, without guidance, this transition can lead to behavioral challenges, stress for the dog and safety concerns for the child. In fact, dog bites disproportionately affect young children, and these incidents are often preventable.
Dog bites are emotionally devastating for families and dogs alike. When a bite occurs, the blame often falls squarely on the dog, but this oversimplifies the situation. Most bites happen when a dog’s early signals of discomfort, such as yawing, lip licking, growling or walking away, are ignored. These signals are not signs of aggression but pleas for space and understanding.
For the dog, the aftermath of a bite can be tragic. They are often labeled dangerous and may be rehomed, surrendered or even euthanized, regardless of the circumstances. Prevention is the key to avoiding these outcomes. And that’s where we come in! By teaching pet parents how to recognize and respect their dog’s boundaries, veterinarians can play a direct role in preventing these tragic situations, preserving the welfare of both dogs and families.
As many of us know all too well, taking care of our mental health is just as important as taking care of our physical health—and this applies to dogs as well. For dogs, the emotional toll of stress, punishment or isolation due to miscommunication can lead to anxiety and even aggression over time. By educating parents, we are supporting the welfare and, in turn, mental health of their dogs, which not only helps prevent surrender and dog bites, but also improves the relationship between dogs and their families—and this means better care for the dog.
You can start by discussing how to prepare their dog for the baby’s arrival. Suggest that parents expose their dog to baby-related sounds and items ahead of time to help desensitize them. Encourage them to adjust the dog’s schedule gradually before the baby arrives, mirroring what the new routine might look like. Additionally, recommend creating a designated area where the dog can retreat to relax, away from the noise and activity of a newborn. These steps help ease the transition and set the dog up for success.
Keep the conversation going! As children grow, their interactions with dogs change—and not always for the better. Parents should learn to identify signs of stress or discomfort in their dog, such as lip licking, yawning, turning away or displaying whale eye. These subtle cues can be missed without proper education.
Teaching children to respect a dog’s boundaries is equally important. For example, kids should avoid hugging, climbing on or startling the dog. Supervision is non-negotiable, as every interaction between dogs and young children should be closely monitored to ensure safety for all.
I know what you are thinking: I don’t have time to do this! This is where your support staff comes in. Have one of your technicians help you shoulder this responsibility. Keep in mind that providing families with the right tools can make a world of difference.
Share educational materials such as body language charts and stress signal guides that families can display at home. Referring clients to certified positive-reinforcement trainers who specialize in families with kids is another invaluable resource. Additionally, recommending children’s books that teach children to understand dog body language in a fun, approachable way can be a powerful tool for bridging communication gaps between dogs and kids.
As veterinarians, we are more than medical professionals—we are advocates for the wellbeing of both pets and their families. By taking a proactive approach to canine welfare in homes with children, we can prevent avoidable tragedies, keep dogs in their forever homes, and strengthen the bond between pets and their people.
