Socialization with kids

We are considering getting a corgi this fall, but I'm just a little concerned about getting it socialized with kids. We don't have any yet ( just two furry cat kids) and we don't really know anyone in town with kids. My moms rescue corgi Rex is finally getting used to the little grandkids. They are still a little leary of Rex and just ignore him, but I wonder if we should just start with a boring old lab and get a corgi later in life.

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Permalink Reply by Kristina Kainz on July 23, 2009 at 10:08am

I totally agree. I see ads on craigslist all the time "we just had a baby and don't feel we have time for the dog anymore" So are you going to get rid of your first baby if you have another one? Even our leopard gecko and our fish are part of the family. Each new member just adds to the fun. Whats the point of taking care of a pet if you are just going to put it in the back yard.

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Permalink Reply by Bev Levy on July 23, 2009 at 11:48am

GOOD!

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Permalink Reply by Zach and Lisa on July 24, 2009 at 3:44pm

I agree with everybody with the whole take your pup to the park. It's a great way to get your corgi used to all the running and screaming kids tend to do. I also thought of another idea since you don't seem to know any young children that would be at your house. It can be a very different thing when a loud little running child can impose on your dog's turf. Most dogs will follow your lead on your behavior towards a new person entering the home. However, some feel the need to protect their family against the unknown even if the family is inviting to the unknown. I realize you don't plan on having children just yet and who knows how long you will wait. But when it is time and you find yourself expecting I would suggest to let your dog get used to seeing you or your husband hold your newborn by using a lifelike baby doll that makes the noises babies seem to make. This way when the baby has arrived it will be no big deal having a new loud thing taking up a lot of your attention. The dog will need to learn that they can smell the baby but not touch and to give the baby a certain amount of small space between the two when the child is on the floor. It may seem silly for you to carry around a baby doll for a short time each day but it would be worth it if it means your newborns safety and privacy. I actually saw this on "It's me or the dog" and I thought it was a great idea. I plan on doing this myself. Plus you can always keep the doll for your possible daughter. I do know that even some high schools and hospitals will rent them out to you. Best of luck to you!