March 12, 2012
My 10 year old dog recently started showing signs of aggression towards our 11 month old son. We don't want to resort to get rid of her but his safety is more important. Is there anything else we can do?
Full Question:
I have read your article about introducing dogs and babies and I found it helpful but I still have a question. We have a dog who is about ten years old, Lady. Lady has never shown signs of aggression towards anyone until recently. My son is now 11 months and Lady has suddenly started growling at him almost every time she is around him. When she isn't growling it is like she completely ignores his presence, she even jumped on top of him when getting into the car one day. We don't want to resort to getting rid of her but his safety is more important to me. Is there anything else we can do? 
Cindy's Answer:
I would keep the dog and child separated and only allow direct supervision (i.e. dog on leash) with no physical contact. The risk of an accident is too high.
If your dog doesn’t have a crate or kennel, then I would suggest getting one and using it. If this dog lived with me she’d learn about our groundwork program.
Pack Structure for the Family Pet DVD
With a 10-year-old dog and a small child that will soon be walking, (if he isn't already) keeping them separated is really the only way to ensure there isn't an incident.
Here is a section on preventing dog bites in kids.
I hope this helps.
Cindy Rhodes
If your dog doesn’t have a crate or kennel, then I would suggest getting one and using it. If this dog lived with me she’d learn about our groundwork program.
Pack Structure for the Family Pet DVD
With a 10-year-old dog and a small child that will soon be walking, (if he isn't already) keeping them separated is really the only way to ensure there isn't an incident.
Here is a section on preventing dog bites in kids.
I hope this helps.
Cindy Rhodes
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