Dog Training at Home with Kids: Safe Tips for Summer Success

Step One: Prepare Your Child Like a Trainer-in-Training

Before your kids start giving commands, it’s important they understand how dogs communicate. Many bites or growls happen because dogs are overwhelmed or misunderstood and young kids don’t always know the signs.

Teach them the basics:

• If a dog’s ears are back, tail is tucked, or they yawn a lot, they’re probably stressed.
• Dogs don’t usually enjoy hugs, no matter how cute it looks on Instagram.
• Eye contact can be intense for dogs. Encourage soft voices and gentle movements.

Set simple rules: no pulling tails, no sitting on the dog, and no interrupting them while they eat or rest.

You can even make a fun “Trainer Code” poster and hang it in the house as a reminder!

Step Two: Make Training Fun and Engaging

Forget long drills or harsh corrections. Kids and dogs both learn best when they’re having fun.

Try these kid-friendly training activities:

1. Basic Commands: Let your child give commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” with treats in hand. Celebrate every little success with praise and claps!
   
   
2. Red Light, Green Light (Recall Edition): Have your dog sit at one end of the yard and your child at the other. They say “Green Light!” and call the dog with “Come!”
   When they say “Red Light!” have the dog sit.
   (This is actually one of the games we use in our classes — it teaches focus, impulse control, and adds structure to recall training.)
   
   
3. Hide and Seek: Great for rainy days or inside time. Your child hides (with a treat), calls the dog, and rewards them when found.
   
   
4. DIY Agility Course: Use cones, broomsticks, hula hoops, or even cardboard boxes to create a mini obstacle course in the backyard.
   Let your child be the coach!

In Maryland, your yard or porch can become the perfect training arena. Just make sure it’s shaded and not too hot. Always keep fresh water nearby and take breaks when needed.

Step Three: Keep Safety Front and Center

Even the most playful pup can get overwhelmed, especially with excited little humans around.

Here are a few must-follow safety rules:

• Always supervise your kids during training sessions.
• Schedule training during cooler hours — early mornings or evenings.
• Stick to short, 5-10 minute sessions.
• Use only positive reinforcement — no yelling, scolding, or rough handling.
• Designate a “quiet zone” (crate, bed, or a cozy corner) where your dog can retreat when they need a break.

Step Four: Make It a Summer Project

Want your kids to really take it seriously? Turn dog training into a full-on summer adventure.

Try this:

• Create a chart with weekly training goals (e.g., “Learn to Sit,” “Practice Stay in the Backyard”).
• Add stickers or stamps for each completed session.
• Celebrate milestones with a “Puppy Party”, maybe a trip to a dog-friendly beach or park in Maryland!

Encourage your child to take photos or videos of progress. They’ll love seeing the transformation, and it’s a great way to reflect on their hard work.

Step Five: Know When to Call in the Pros

Some training challenges need a little expert help and that’s perfectly okay. If your dog struggles with leash reactivity, jumping, or excessive barking (especially common in new puppy energy), it might be time to consult a professional.

In Maryland, we’re lucky to have access to local, experienced trainers who specialize in family-friendly programs — including private sessions and board-and-train options.

(👋 Psst… we happen to know a few!)

Sometimes, a few lessons with a pro can give your pup (and your child!) a solid foundation to build on at home.