Think of puppy training as a form of parenting. Puppies, like kids, learn through trial and error. As they mature, they will test you to see if you mean what you say. If you allow them to take advantage of you, they will. If you always give them what they want, they'll have a sense of entitlement. By offering love and being firm about the rules, on the other hand, dogs will reward you with obedience and companionship. Some even listen more attentively than your kids.

Let your children help feed, bathe, and groom the puppy. Under your supervision, kids can even participate in Puppy Training. Also make sure your kids know there are times to let the puppy be, such as when he is sleeping. If the kids treat the puppy like another toy, the pup may very well become resentful of them. Kids come first, but a puppy should be welcomed and loved by everyone in the house. Children who play too rough make the house seem like a war zone.

Puppy Training and Socialization
As the puppy grows older, never forget that any dog, no matter how friendly and gentle, can snap when pushed far enough. Have you never lost your temper, or said things in anger you later regretted? The family dog should not snip when your five-year old disturbs him while eating, but everyone is better off if the child knows to not interfere with the dog's feeding. Effective puppy training and socialization prepares the dog for those moments when he is better off walking away than losing his cool. As part of socialization, you can show the puppy that it is okay for people to take his food and toys, and that it is unacceptable for him to act territorial over anything in the house.

Kids and puppies can make the cutest partners in the world. Nothing is more precious than children and the family pet sharing a long-lasting bond. It is up to you as the parent to ensure the relationship never goes awry by teaching the puppy to be submissive to the kids, and showing your children how to respect an animal.