Puppy Rules for Kids

The rules

1. Let the puppy come to you.
2. Pet his back and his side, not his face.
3. No hugs and no kisses. He'd rather have a treat.
4. Don't pick him up. Sit on the floor instead.
5. Let him eat in peace.
6. Let him sleep. Sleeping puppies are busy growing.
7. If he bites or jumps, be a tree.
8. If he walks away, let him go.
9. Wash your hands after you play.
10. See poop? Get a grown-up.

Be a Tree

1. Stop. Freeze like a tree.
2. Fold your branches. Cross your arms and tuck your hands in.
3. Look at your roots. Look at your feet, not the puppy.
4. Stay still until he wanders off or a grown-up comes.

For the grown-ups

• An adult in the room and paying attention, or a gate between them
• His crate or bed is his kid-free bedroom
• Short play sessions, then a break
• Kids never take food or toys from him. A grown-up trades
• Dropped, stepped on or hurt? Call your vet and head in, even if he seems fine