Kids + Puppies: Teaching Littles to Love Gently
- sappypawspups
- Aug 3
- 2 min read
Kids + Puppies: Teaching Littles to Love Gently
How to build sweet, respectful bonds between your children and their new best friend
At Sappy Paws, family is at the heart of everything we do, because we are a family! Our puppies are raised in our homes, surrounded by the sound of kids playing, laughing, and plenty of play time! That’s why we love helping other families introduce their little ones to the joy (and responsibility) of puppy love.
Whether you’re welcoming your first pup or adding another wagging tail to your home, here are our favorite tips for teaching children to treat puppies with kindness, patience, and care:
1. Start with Observation
Before encouraging hands-on interaction, let your kiddo watch how you handle the puppy. Show them how to pet gently, speak softly, and move slowly. Modeling calm and love goes a long way.
Tip: Use phrases like “slow and soft” or “gentle hands” to give kids simple words they can remember.
2. Teach What Puppies Need
Even very young children can understand the basics of what puppies need: food, water, rest, and love. Explain how puppies get tired and need naps (just like toddlers!), and that rough play can make them extra tired.
Idea: Let your child “help” with gentle tasks like filling the water bowl or choosing a toy.
3. Make It a Bonding Experience
Encourage shared activities that help build trust—like brushing, tossing a soft toy, or taking walks together (with adult supervision). These moments create positive memories and help establish your child as part of the pup’s “pack.”
Tip: Kids love to read aloud - Have them read to the puppy during quiet time when the puppy needs rest. It’s calming for everyone!
4. Positive Reinforcement
Just like puppies, children learn best through encouragement. Celebrate gentle touches, kind words, and thoughtful behavior. If your child gets a little too excited, redirect rather than scold - every interaction is a chance to learn!
💛 Raised Around Littles at Sappy Paws
Our puppies at Sappy Paws are raised in a family environment, which means they’re used to the hustle and bustle of daily life: kids running, toys squeaking, and plenty of hugs! All the grandkids LOVE going to Nana and Papa's house to see the puppies and love on them. We believe that socializing pups early on helps them grow into calm, confident companions ready to join your family.
Welcoming a puppy into your home is an amazing opportunity to teach empathy, responsibility, and love. With a little guidance, kids and puppies can grow up side by side, creating memories that last a lifetime.
At Sappy Paws, we’re here to help every step of the way! Call today to schedule a visit 541-990-4505
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