Before Kay came into my life, I was dedicated fully to my dogs. I read all kinds of books about them, and then when I started reading parenting books, I noticed right away that there are some similarities between raising a dog and raising a child.
First, positive reinforcement is the way to go with both species. Catch them being good and praise them for that (maybe throw in some treats for the canine). Respond right away to a desired behavior because both dog and young child isn't going to remember doing something for very long.
First, positive reinforcement is the way to go with both species. Catch them being good and praise them for that (maybe throw in some treats for the canine). Respond right away to a desired behavior because both dog and young child isn't going to remember doing something for very long.
Secondly, be consistent. If they do something wrong, the same consequence should be followed through with each time. If the dog has to go on the porch for a couple minutes when she won't stop barking, then do it every time the barking is a problem. Same with kids. You can't let them jump on the couch one night and then yell at them when they do it the next.
Third, distraction is your friend. Both a puppy and a young toddler can be redirected to some more acceptable activity when they find themselves in trouble. A puppy can be given a toy when he's trying to chew on the wires, and a baby can be shown to her own toys when she's trying to chew on the wires (see, another similarity!)
Third, distraction is your friend. Both a puppy and a young toddler can be redirected to some more acceptable activity when they find themselves in trouble. A puppy can be given a toy when he's trying to chew on the wires, and a baby can be shown to her own toys when she's trying to chew on the wires (see, another similarity!)
And the last thing they both have in common: On those days when one of them is driving you crazy and you think you just can't take it anymore, they do something sweet or they finally learn something you've been trying to teach them, and all the frustration is forgotten (at least for awhile). When my new puppy Lily was up all night and I was having second thoughts about this whole puppy business, the next day she peed on the paper for the first time, and I was so proud. Or when the baby has been cranky all day but then they'll do something as simple as lay their head on your shoulder or give you a sticky hug, and suddenly it all seems worth it again. That is the magic of raising any young creature, as far as I'm concerned.