Essential Training Tips for Families With Kids and Dogs

Raising a dog and raising kids are both full-time jobs. Combine the two, and things can get chaotic fast. As a professional dog trainer, I’ve worked with countless families who thought getting a dog would bring everyone closer, only to find themselves overwhelmed when the dog started nipping at the toddler, barking during nap time, or ignoring every command the kids gave. The good news? With the right structure, training, and communication, your dog can become a beloved and well-mannered member of the family. Whether you’ve just welcomed a new puppy or your longtime companion is adjusting to a new baby or active children, these tips will help you create a balanced household where everyone thrives.

Why Dog Training Is Different With Kids Around

When kids are involved, training takes on a new level of importance. Dogs don’t automatically understand that children are small humans. They often interpret quick movements, shrieks, or rough play as invitations to wrestle or herd, especially if the dog is young or high-energy. Training in a family home should focus on:

• Creating clear boundaries and routines
• Teaching impulse control
• Managing energy levels
• Establishing leadership from all human family members, not just adults

One of the most common problems we see is that dogs learn to listen to parents but not the children. To avoid this, everyone in the household, including kids, should be part of the training process.

Set the Ground Rules for Everyone

Before diving into commands and corrections, start with some house rules for both your children and your dog. Clarity helps everyone feel safe and confident. For kids:

• Don’t disturb the dog while eating or sleeping
• No roughhousing or teasing
• Ask permission before giving treats or toys
• Use calm voices when interacting with the dog
• Always involve an adult when practicing commands

For dogs:

• No jumping on kids
• No mouthing or nipping
• Sit before greetings or receiving attention
• Wait patiently for food and toys
• Practice crate or place commands during high-activity times

Top 5 Training Commands Every Family Dog Should Know

These commands make life easier for both parents and kids, especially when practiced consistently.

1. Place Command

This teaches your dog to stay on a designated spot until released. It’s perfect during family dinners, homework time, or when guests arrive.

2. Leave It

Kids tend to drop things, food, toys, even medication. A strong “leave it” can prevent dangerous situations.

3. Down/Stay

Encourages calm behavior and reinforces impulse control. Great for toddlers who are just learning to walk and need a stable space to move around safely.

4. Out Command

Teaching your dog to release toys, move away from a person, or exit a space on command builds healthy boundaries. We explain how to train the “Out” command step by step right here.

5. Recall (Come)

Critical for safety in backyards, parks, or even inside the house. Every child should practice recall with parental guidance.

Make It Fun: Kid-Friendly Training Games

Kids love to play, and so do dogs. Incorporate these simple games to help kids bond with your dog while reinforcing structure.

• Hide and Seek – One person hides while another sends the dog to find them using “come”
• Treat Toss with Commands – Have your child toss treats after a successful “sit” or “down”
• Follow the Leader – Let kids lead the dog on leash through a simple obstacle course or hallway
• Simon Says (Dog Edition) – Kids give commands and reward correct responses

These games promote trust, leadership, and listening skills for both kids and dogs.

Keep Expectations Age-Appropriate

While kids should participate in training, younger children aren’t always able to enforce rules. That’s okay. The goal is exposure and consistency, not perfection. Here’s how to involve kids by age group: Ages 3–5

• Supervised treat delivery
• Gentle petting practice
• Observing family training sessions

Ages 6–9

• Practicing simple commands
• Helping with feeding and walking (with adult guidance)
• Rewarding good behavior

Ages 10+

• Leading short training sessions
• Practicing leash handling
• Teaching new tricks under supervision

When to Seek Professional Help

If your dog is showing signs of:

• Food or toy guarding
• Reactivity to loud sounds or sudden movements
• Difficulty accepting your child’s presence
• Excessive barking, herding, or nipping

…it’s time to get help. These behaviors can escalate quickly and often stem from confusion or anxiety, not aggression. Our Basic & Advanced Obedience Program is designed to give families the tools to manage their dog’s behavior across all situations, including kid-filled households. We focus on confidence-building, structure, and respect, while ensuring your dog has fun and thrives.

Real-Life Tip: Use Training to Create Calm During Chaos

Summer playdates, noisy game nights, and busy school mornings are stressful for dogs if they don’t know what’s expected of them. Training routines like a daily “place” practice, short walks, or mini-commands during transitions (like loading into the car) can drastically reduce misbehavior. For example, teaching your dog to relax during high-activity times, like during BBQs or when guests visit, mirrors the same strategies we shared in our Backyard Safety for Dogs guide. Consistency in these chaotic moments is where training truly shines.

Extra Support: Resources for Families

Looking for more support outside your home? The AKC Family Dog Program offers a variety of family-focused training activities and resources to help your dog become a well-mannered companion in any environment.

Final Thoughts

A well-trained dog makes parenting easier, not harder. And when your kids are involved in the training process, they learn empathy, responsibility, and communication, all while building an unbreakable bond with your dog. Ready to get started with structured, family-friendly training? We’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule your dog’s free evaluation and get your whole family on the path to calm, confident living: https://dogtrainernashville.com/contact/