Give supervision a specific job
An adult should be able to observe and respond to the interaction, not just be somewhere in the house. When that attention is unavailable, separate the child and dog with an appropriate, secured arrangement. Check the setup before relying on it; a door or gate that is left open cannot do its job.
Protect rest, meals and possessions
Arrange the dog’s resting and feeding areas so children do not approach or disturb the dog there. Teach children to leave a dog alone when it moves away. Do not ask a child to take a toy or food from the dog to prove that the dog is tolerant.
Teach interactions children can understand
Keep rules short: no climbing, chasing, hugging or putting faces close to the dog. An adult can guide a calm activity that suits the child and the dog, or choose a separate activity. A child’s enthusiasm is not evidence that the dog wants contact.
Stop early and review concerns
Pause contact if the dog moves away or appears uncomfortable. Do not punish a warning or force another greeting. Obtain individualized professional advice for concerning behavior or a history of bites, and maintain separation while arranging help. Injury requires appropriate medical attention.
An example: the doorbell during dinner
In an illustrative household, the adult expects to answer the door while a child finishes dinner. Before the visitor arrives, they place the dog in a suitable separate area with care needs met. The plan removes competing responsibilities; it does not certify a particular gate or guarantee safety.
Your practical checklist
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Notes for your next step
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Common questions
Can I leave them together if the dog knows the child?
No. Use adult supervision or appropriate separation. Knowing each other does not replace a safety plan.