PONS and children can be a heartwarming combination in most cases.  They really can be good friends, and both benefit from this loving relationship. 

However there are specific guidelines that parents who are dedicated pet owners must observe in all situations.  Why is this ? As loving and loyal as PONS can be, they are still canines, with a limited capacity for complex thoughts which are part of their species.

Please bear in mind that young children must never be left alone with a dog.  The type of play which excites a dog needs to be discouraged and dogs need to be trained to understand their place in your family. There should be no exceptions to this guideline. Families who live by these guidelines, will have an extremely rewarding relationships with their PONS for many years.

Some people may think that it an anomaly when we  hear stories of family pets attacking children and nevertheless, parents still choose to bring dogs into their families with little thought of the possible adverse consequences.  

Most families with a dog will thankfully never have to deal with any of the terrible situations we hear about in the news media.. Dogs generally love people and most dogs love children. Children tend to love dogs as much as their parents do, and it is very doubtful that after thousands of years the connection between canine and humankind will be broken. However, children do become upset and behave in unreasonable ways around their pets. When my Shakey was only one year old, my foster daughter became angry and slapped him across the face. Fortunately, his good temperament saved him and he looked at her in distain and walked away. This took place very quickly, but I will never forget it.

 How do you create the best possible environment for your children and your PON so that you won't need to worry unduly about unexpected tragedy. 

Experts generally agree upon at least three points which must be taken when bringing a dog into a household with children.

First, be sure that very young children, as well as older children who may display immature, or impulsive, behaviors, are NEVER left alone with your PON.  Your PON is unlikely to suddenly attack, but a dog - like a small child itself - will not always choose the best response when it is unintentionally teased, harmed or threatened in play. You wouldn't leave small children unattended in play for more than a few seconds or minutes (depending upon their age).  So if your child and your dog are together, you should be even more vigilant, as the potential for accidents is at least doubled. In the case with Shakey, I was on the scene, but nevertheless, my foster daughter became upset in an instant when things did not go her way and she took it out on him.

Secondly, you should discourage roughhousing with your PON. PONS in general have good temperaments, but they may become upset in certain situations.

Thirdly, ensure that your family PON is moderately well trained. While some trainers may feel that the owner is adequately qualified to take on this task, you may wish to consider having your PON professionally trained. In my case, Shakey's breeder worked with him before sending him to me at the age of four months.

Aggression can happen with even the most loving owners when incorrect training, or improper handling of the dog is not addressed when they are puppies. Working with your PON breeder may give you greater peace of mind you are looking for when selecting a PON puppy for your children. Alternatively, if you train your PON yourself, you need to ensure that the PON understands that you are the top dog, and that he is not above your children in your family's pecking order. Good luck and please keep us updated.