Recently I read that a 14-month-old boy died from a dog's bites. According to the news, the boy was playing with two large dogs when one of them pounced on him. It is not the first time that something as tragic as this occurs. That's why I wonder: Is it dangerous to have a dog if you have a baby?.
It is not uncommon for our children to ask us for a baby when they are somewhat older, and there are many benefits that a dog provides to a child: responsibility, love, knows another world different from yours ...
But it is important to know that, if you decide to have one of these animals at home, It should be chosen according to the family's lifestyle: For example, if we like to play sports, an active dog that likes movement and exercise would be suitable.
However,race is not a determining factor to blame for aggression, although it is clear that it affects the general character of the dog. It is said that dangerous dog breeds do not exist as such.
The factors that make us believe that some breeds are dangerous are directly related to the education and socialization that is given to the dog.
Dangerous dogs and affectionate dogs
In Spain, eight races considered dangerous are considered: Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Rottweiler, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu and Akita Inu.
All these breeds, like the rest of dog breeds, must have a good socialization and education from puppies, and even when it is a friendly dog with people, they can present a strong impulse of prey.
Thus, it can be dangerous to leave them alone with children. Solid training is necessary to achieve this, since by nature they are not aggressive dogs with people. In addition, it is very important to train it to a very high level of confidence to ensure control in case of an incident.
The most important thing is to be intelligent every time children and dogs are together because, although the emotional ties between them are strong, dogs are animals and should be understood as such, especially if we talk about young children.
And there are also dogs that tolerate and love children, such as: Beagle, Labrador Retriever, Mastiff, Hound, Old English Shepherd, Collie, St. Bernard, Foxhound, Golden Retriever ...
What can be done for the dog to accept the baby?
Although all these breeds adapt very well to children, one should never forget that many dogs have a powerful predatory instinct, especially hunting dogs, since it is the means by which their ancestors fed.
And although a dog can never get rid of its institutes, it can be taught certain rules. For example, we must get used to the dog, from puppy, to mix with children and get used to them. Socialization is very important for the dog to adapt to humans and live with them feeling one more.
At the beginning, before the arrival of a new member to the family, the dog will be a little lost, since it is necessary to get used to a multitude of things: new routines, new smells, new flavors, new sounds ..., but especially, new person at home.
I do not doubt the benefits of an animal for children, but I think that in the case of dogs, it is very important that everything is very controlled. We cannot forget that accidents exist.
Therefore, if we see that in a period of time the dog seems not to adapt to the child, we should take measures and take him to a specialist to help us control the situation. So, what do you tell me: Is it dangerous to have a dog if you have a baby?.
