For some parents, kids begging for a puppy might be a familiar experience. The kids might even win out!

Although there are many joys in adding a new canine companion to the family, owning a dog is a big responsibility. Kids might not anticipate all that goes into responsible dog ownership.

Involving your kids in dog training is a great way to teach responsibility and patience and it reinforces routine. The American Kennel Club shares the following tips for helping your kids become responsible dog owners.

Teaching simple commands. “Down” and “sit” are a good place to start. For “sit," have your child hold a treat just above your dog’s nose and slowly move it back over the dog’s head. This indicates that the dog should then rock back to a sitting position. For “down,” instruct your child how to hold a treat in front of the dog’s nose, and then drop their hand to the ground. The dog should follow the food and drop into a down position. Anytime your dog completes a command, be sure your child gives your dog the treat and plenty of praise.

Mealtimes. It’s important to have your dog accustomed to a mealtime schedule. This is also a great routine for your kid to be a part of. Ask your kid to help feed the dog, whether it’s wet food, dry food or both.

Walking the dog. Although there are plenty of opportunities for complaining, having kids help with taking the dog around the block and picking up after them is an important part of dog ownership. Walks are a small part of understanding what comes along with the responsibility of owning a dog.

Using a leash. To make walking a little easier, your child can also assist in training your pup to leash walk without pulling or biting. Have your child hold a treat or a favorite toy waist high, tell the dog “Let’s go” and begin walking. This should help your dog focus during walking.

For more information on responsible dog ownership, visit the AKC at www.akc.org.

©2024 American Kennel Club. Visit at akc.org. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC