Matters Regarding In Choosing A New Puppy: What Tasks Can Your Child Handle With The New Puppy?
As soon as your new puppy is safely and securely at home for his first arrival, give your child certain tasks that can get her involved in taking care of the little doggie. These tasks should be assignments that she can easily manage, either by herself or with your help.
Yet, you should not give her a bunch of responsibility over the puppy just yet. She should only do certain tasks that are appropriate for her age. Too much or too little responsibility can be discouraging to the child and can tarnish the relationship that she should have with your new pet.
Precisely what Can Toddlers Do?
Toddlers (up to three years old) can pick up the puppy s toys and put them back in the basket. Toys that are left out can be quite a hazard both to the family and your puppy. Toddlers can also hand treats in exchange during training and even for good behavior. And when it s time for your puppy to visit to the vet to get his shots, your child can be there to see that the little pup gets shots just like he does!
Pre-Schoolers & Young Kids
Pre-schoolers and also children (up to eight years old) can help, under supervision, with feeding the puppy and making sure that his water bowl is never empty. Children around this age can take the puppy out (with a leash) for bathroom breaks and can assist in bathing and brushing the puppy.
Kids Ages 9 and Up
Kids from the age of nine and up should be able to do all of the above tasks. In addition, they can helpclean up after the family pet and help with housetraining and basic training commands, such as Sit and Come .
Even though a few of the tasks mentioned are not comfortable to do, children should realize that doing these chores is part of owning a dog. Realizing all characteristics of a responsible dog owner early on in their lives can help them become informed and responsible adult dog owners.
2 other pup tasks that your child can get involved in, whatever the child s age, are keeping the dog physically fit and mentally healthy. This is achieved by regular exercise and socialization from the moment your puppy arrives in your home.