Your little wants to sleep on the dog. Aww or Oh No?

Hi good parents of dog and/or kid!

What if your kid wants to rest on your dog? Your kid has good intentions of wanting to connect with the dog. As a little kid I fantasized riding our dog like a horse. I didn’t actually ever try to ride our dog but I get it!

A kid resting on a dog is not safe. Ditto leaning, climbing, or hugging dog. The dog can’t escape. The dog may bite. Even if the dog doesn’t bite, the dog is scared and in pain. The dog is not fine.

Our little has not yet tried to rest on Trixie. If our kid did want to lounge on the dog, I would know (thanks Dr. Becky!) that our kid is good AND it’s my job to keep kiddo and dog feeling safe.

Here’s a script I'd use if our wonderful kiddo wanted to lie on the dog:

Rabbit (the kid): I’m going to go sleep on Trixie.

Ilya (dad): Rabbit, we don’t sleep on Trixie. That would be a big owie for Trixie and so scary for her.

Rabbit: I’m going to sleep on Trixie. [walks toward Trixie]

Ilya: I’m not going to let you sleep on Trixie.

Ilya: You’re a good kid having a hard time. I’m picking you up. [Picks up Rabbit.] We’re gonna go to your room and hang out there. Do you want to play Saja Boys there or read The Aunts are Here?

Rabbit: Saja Boys.

Do you have things you say to your kid (or other kids) so kid and dog stay safe? I’d love to hear. Do you have any struggles with kid plus dog? Book a free call:

You are a good parent!