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Teaching the new greyhound his manners must go hand hand-in-hand with
teaching the children their manners around this new pet. Please keep in mind
that you are dealing with a live, adult animal with all the accompanying
instincts and needs. The greyhound is one of the most easy going do breeds, but
it is nonetheless a dog. In order to establish a loving relationship between
greyhound and child. It is a wise idea to review the following ideal and discuss
them.
- The greyhound is not a toy. It deserves respect and responsible care.
- A greyhound needs a place of his own to rest undisturbed. A crate is an
excellent choice. If a greyhound is in his place, then he is not to be
bothered.
- No living creature enjoys being pounced on while sleeping. Call his name
before starting any sleeping dog. If the greyhound is sleeping, he needs rest.
When he is ready to play, he will let you know.
- Small children often want to express their affection for the pet greyhound
by hugging or clinging to him. Teach your children that this can be scary for
the greyhound and encourage gentle stroking the neck and shoulders or brushing
instead. Speak quietly.
- Tails are private things, not play things.
- It is important to reinforce to your greyhound the idea that children are
part of the human coaching team, not litter mates. Even though a child may be
eye level, your greyhound must understand that the child is still a person and
must respond accordingly. For this reason we strongly recommend that your
greyhound does not share your child's bed or bedroom.
- Outdoor games with your greyhound should be closely supervised, especially
initially and until both child and greyhound are fully trained.
- Instead of running and jumping with your new pet, have your child join you
as you stand in place and happily encourage your greyhound to come you, with
each person taking a turn. This provides exercise for the greyhound and
reminds him that all people are in control - large or small.
- Adults kneeling at greyhound eye level can discourage jumping up.
- The main rule to keep in mind concerning children and greyhounds is easy -
SAFETY FIRST - This applies to both the greyhound and the children. DO not
leave young children and dogs alone together if you cannot supervise, crate
your greyhound.
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