Teaching your child not to hit or poke the family dog is not an easy task, I get it. Many parents use the phrase “Don’t bother the dog” or “Be nice to the puppy” and it does not work. I know that sometimes you feel like nothing helps. Try a different approach by having your child make his or her own rules! A little reverse psychology goes a long way. Here’s how:

Paws For A Minuteâ„¢ Quick Tip for parents raising children and the family dog!

Ask your children to help you make up the family doggy rules! Make this a formal fun event and a family affair.

1. Serve ice cream and make it a treat.

2. Write down the rules that you create together.

3. Have your child choose his or her favorite color of marker to decorate the rule page.

4. Frame the rules with a picture of your child and the dog and put it up in a prominent place in the kitchen.

Having your child participate in writing the dog rules empowers them in the process of creating the rules. It becomes a positive experience instead of negative. It also allows your child to see the dog as a family member, not a toy. Of course you will still have to play referee, however it’s easier to refer back to the rules that your own child created!

For example:

Paws For A Minuteâ„¢ Kid Rules

1. Never tease Charlie

2. Never pick up Charlie or Poke Charlie

3. I will not ride Charlie like a horse.

4. If Charlie is nipping at me I will ask my mom or dad to put Charlie indoors so I can play ball or ride my skateboard.