Building any good relationship takes understanding, communication and realistic expectations. The relationship between a child and a dog can be very special, but it needs guidance to become a rewarding experience with lasting good memories. So teach your child how to get along with dogs and reap the rewards of all those warm wet kisses and big hugs. The AKC, experts on purebred dogs since 1884, offers tips on how to keep everyone in your family safe and happy.

"Every child should grow up with a dog. I did."

Does your child want a dog? Ask him or her. Maybe it's not the right age or time, or the child isn't ready for the responsibilities of caring for a dog. Maybe your child is too busy with other activities. Maybe you're the one who really wants the dog. Regardless, you as the adult, are the individual ultimately responsible for the dog's health and welfare.

"Billy, this is Rover. Rover, this is Billy. Now what?"

What do these two wily creatures need to know about each other? How to: 1) Behave, and 2) Communicate. The first message: Be Gentle and Learn Mutual Respect. Other tips:

• Do explain to your child that since dogs can't talk like we do, they communicate in different ways, such as facial expressions, body posture, or barking. Your child should learn to be sensitive to the dog's behavior.
• Do demonstrate how to interact with the dog. Show the child how to pet the dog nicely, to give the dog some space if it gets anxious, and how not to pull the dog's tail, or ears, or poke its eye. Carefully explain that a dog is not a toy.
• Do make sure your dog has basic obedience training. The dog needs to know what is expected of it, and you need to establish a form of communication with your pet. Consulting a qualified obedience instructor can be helpful.
• Do be consistent in all teaching endeavors.
• Do supervise all puppy - child interactions. The adult in the household is the responsible party to be sure interactions are fun and mutually respected.
• Do oversee the dog's care and well-being at all times.
• Don't expect any dog to tolerate ear tugging, tail pulling or the like. Intervene if play gets rough or out of hand.
• Don't force responsibility on the child that he or she is not ready for. The dog will suffer the consequences of being neglected, ignored and not properly cared for.

AKC Information and Programs

The AKC offers a wide range of educational information and programs about dogs and kids, including: The Complete Dog Book For Kids, containing kid-friendly information and pictures of purebred dogs.

Educational programs such as Best Friends and Safety Around Dogs, Your Safety Begins with You! Both are aimed at elementary school aged children and come with teaching aids for educators. Educators, youth groups leaders and community leaders can order these free kits by contacting AKC Customer Service at 919-233-9767 or via e-mail. The AKC also sponsors the Canine Ambassador program. Canine Ambassadors are AKC-affiliated club members who volunteer their time to visit schools and make presentations about responsible dog ownership and canine safety.