Dogs and Children 2026: Here are 8 things every child should learn before getting a dog - according to the experts
Acting early can make sure that a new dog will fit in your family with the minimum of hassle.
Bringing a dog into the family can be life-changing — but children aren’t always ready for the new four-legged arrival.
Experts warn that children need preparation to interact safely and responsibly and it’s something that their parents can help out with in advance of the puppy homecoming.
To help out Family First Nurseries, one of the UK’s leading early years providers, share their expert guidance on how to make welcoming a pet a positive experience for both children and animals.
Emily Burgess, Director of Early Years at Family First Nurseries, has identified eight key things that children should know.
She explained: “Having a dog can be an enriching experience for children. Caring for an animal helps them practise empathy, responsibility, and gentle behaviour, and dogs can offer real comfort and companionship as children grow.
“From an early years perspective, pets also support children’s social and emotional development.
“The only challenge comes when a dog arrives before a child fully understands how to interact safely and respectfully.
“With a little preparation, families can create a positive experience for both the child and the animal.”
Here’s what kids should know.
Approaching animals calmly and respectfully
Children often need guidance on how to approach animals in a way that feels safe — and predictable. Practising slow steps, gentle voices, and giving the animal time to sniff or investigate helps build trust. Younger children may naturally move quickly or use more strength than they realise, so supervision is key.
Understanding gentle touch
Young children may think they’re being gentle even when they’re not. Before a dog comes home, practise stroking a soft toy, using an open hand, or learning ‘two-finger tickles’. These small rehearsal moments teach the difference between soft touch and gripping or squeezing, keeping animals safe and happy.
Recognising animal body language
Children can begin to understand that animals communicate with their bodies long before they use words. Simple cues, like a dog backing away, a high, stiff tail, or a small dog hiding in a corner, teach children that animals can feel worried or overwhelmed. Learning these signs early reduces stress for everyone and helps prevent unsafe interactions.
Safe handling, boundaries, and giving space
One of the most valuable lessons is that dogs have times when they want to play, and times when they want space. Children can learn to follow simple rules: don’t disturb animals while they sleep or eat, avoid picking them up without an adult, and always let the dog choose to come closer. These boundaries help children feel successful and help animals feel secure. Learning to pause and wait also strengthens children’s self-regulation skills.
Taking part in everyday care routines
Even small, supervised jobs such as refilling a water dish, brushing a coat, helping scoop food, or setting up a cosy bed can help children feel capable and involved. Practising these routines with pretend play or a neighbour’s friendly pooch can ease the transition. Consistency grows with age — younger children often need reminders and encouragement.
Learning basic handling skills
Older children can benefit from practising practical tasks, such as helping to clip on a harness, holding a lead safely, or supporting a small animal with two gentle hands. These skills reduce the risk of accidents and make the early days with a new dog calmer for everyone.
Understanding that dogs have feelings and needs
Children who learn that animals feel scared, excited, bored, or lonely become far more empathetic caregivers. Conversations like, ‘The puppy is hiding because he’s feeling shy’ or ‘The dog is twitching his little nose because he’s curious’ help children form emotional connections and respond with kindness.
Caring for a dog is a shared family responsibility
It’s important for children to understand that while they can help with daily tasks, adults are ultimately responsible for keeping the animal safe, healthy, and well. This helps avoid unrealistic expectations and ensures the animal’s welfare always comes first!
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