When I got married I already had a small Maltese so when the kids came along I had to teach them how to behave around the dog. I was a stay at home mom during the years when the kids were small. I was pretty adamant about having a peaceful loving home. Running and wild play took place outside. The kids had their own playroom where they could safely have their toys and play.
It does depend. Because I worked in a Family Medicine office for many years I was able to observe a lot of kids and how they were being parented. I know there are people out there that cannot mange their kids much less a dog. Hopefully, there are still level headed people out there that know how to train a child how to be gentle.
When kids are in the 0 to 3 year age range you really have to be on top of things. A couple of toddlers around a little dog would be a challenge for anyone. My Maltese would sit on the furniture when we were in the family room just to keep from getting underfoot. She did stay really close to me so I knew she was alright and she was never left alone with the kids. She did not enjoy hanging out with the toddlers but she was always right at my side. |