Children and dogs

Most families feel complete after they have children to then introduce a new puppy.  In some cases and some breeds it works perfectly well.  But in others it can end in disaster.  

The Bracco Italiano is an excellent breed of dog with teens, children, babies and toddlers. 
The Hungarian Vizsla is an excellent breed of dog with older children and teens.
The Pug is fantastic with all ages.
The French bulldog is brilliant with all ages. 
The Weimaraner is a breed of dog which is excellent with all ages, but you need to have time for your dog away from children for training. They are tolerant of children. 

When we look at various breeds they all have their good points and bad points.  Dogs raised with children usually have no issues as they have known nothing else. But introducing a puppy into a home with children can bring more issues.  As the puppy is new, exciting for the children.  They may over mess with the puppy. But also the puppy doesn't know them yet so may react if touched too much. 

Things to remember:

Children should be taught on a daily basis how to act in and around dogs.
It is your job the parent to make sure you do not leave any dog unattended with children. 
Tell your children not to make sudden moves around children and do not shout or scream near a dog as this can cause panic in a dog.
If your dogs asleep, never in a million years jump beside the dog or on the dog.  The dog is in its rights to react quick which means a bite.
Leave the dog alone if it is sleeping.  You've heard the expression. "Let sleeping dogs lie"!.
Never mess with the dog when its eating or run back and forth by the dog whilst its eating. This can create guarding and a snap in their direction.
Do not sit on the floor and eat in front of the dog. Be higher than the dog, or ideally pop dog in crate whilst your children are eating on the floor. 
Always ask owners permission if you can touch their dog.  If they say no, respect it.

Finally hygiene.Dogs are mucky and harbour bugs.  Do not let your dog lick the faces of children.  Always wash your hands after handling the puppy. 

We as breeders do ask you questions about your children because their is a lot of misconception out in the UK with regards to how good the Vizsla is with kids.  Just because one person has a great experience does not mean the next person will experience the same thing.   Just remember the Vizsla puppy is not an easy one to take on.  Its your job as the parent to put rules in place for both kids and dogs.   Do not assume all is going to be fabulous. Its your job to make sure its fabulous by using common sense. 

​Rachel x