The Childfree Dog and Children
Despite early and ongoing socialization, Tierce, my Shiba inu, is still nervous around shrieking, darting little children (not that I blame him). As a childfree person myself, I don’t have a lot of regular exposure to children, although I have tried to give Tierce as many positive experiences with children as possible. However, when a child runs at him or keeps following him around, I have to step in and tell that child, and their parent, if necessary, to knock it off.
Perhaps it is the idea that every dog is a caricature of Disney dogs: a goofy, lovable mutt who always manages to save the day; a heroic, preternaturally intelligent babysitter; a stereotypically evil force of destruction. Perhaps it never occurred to them their dogs are just as common as children, and that their children should be taught how best to deal with dogs. Whatever the reason, some parents just don’t teach their children how to approach and pet strange dogs.
A small child barreling toward your dog at warp speed is something you need to deal with before it happens. While we can sympathize heartily with a dog’s natural reaction to ill-mannered children, a bite or snap can make your dog into a target for restriction or euthanization. Dogs should be socialized with young children at an early age, preferably with a friends’ respectful, well-coached children. Accustoming them to childrens’ noise is also a good idea.
As you go out into the world with your dog, some parents who are attentive to their children may ask you if their child can pet your dog. This is a good sign that the parent has an idea of how to properly introduce their child. Bonus points are given if the parent has clear control of the situation. Don’t let your guard down if you let the child pet your dog, but make sure you are right beside your dog to ward off any bad manners on either side. Many parents merely want to socialize their young children with friendly dogs, for which I can hardly fault them.
Socialization doesn’t mean allowing ill-behaved children to tease or harass your dog. Negative experiences with children can make your dog more likely to bite or snap if suddenly accosted. If a child is rushing at your dog and showing no signs of stopping, physically place yourself in between the child and your dog. If your dog is smaller, pick it up and hold it close. Say in a firm tone, “Don’t come near the dog, please,” or “Please don’t try to touch my dog without asking.” It’s up to you whether you allow them to pet your dog after that.
If you are benevolently inclined toward children, education is always an option. Mention, while smiling pleasantly, that if they had rushed up to a dog that was aggressive, fearful, sick or injured, they could be missing half their face right about now. If their eyes haven’t glazed over yet, you might also inform them that Lassie and all of her antecedents are fiction, not the blueprint upon which all dogs were molded. Feel free to modify this in any way to suit your audience.
Above all, do not feel ashamed of telling someone not to pet your dog or let their children near your dog because they are behaving like chimps on speed. Your dog is not a stuffed animal and is not public property. You may get some nasty looks and remarks, but protecting your dog and yourself is your first priority.
Copyright Julie MacTire. Published 1 February 2009 in The Zone.
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