Expert: Kim Wingate - 6/29/2009

Question
My mom just bought a 5 year poodle from the SPCA and I have 3 year old twins. How is this dog going to behave around my kids?

Answer
Hello Kelly,
Most Poodles love kids and do really well around them, especially the Standard Poodles.  Be sure that when they meet that you are in control of the children and the dog.  Try to keep the children calm (as possible) and if it seems overwhelming to the dog, have them meet the dog one-on-one.  
Be ready to dominate the dog if he tries to show dominate behavior over the children.  Jumping on them, bumping into them with his body or even face licking can't be accepted.  If he does this, make him lay down and submit to you, then let the children come up and see him while he is in the down position.  If you teach him that he has to submit to the children, he should be ok around them.  

Let the children help with feeding, walking (when you take the dog for a walk, attach another leash to the dog so that you can control the dog, but the kids can take turns holding on to the other leash)
and playing with the dog, it will help build the bond between kids and dog.  

I hope this helps you some.  If you have other questions for me, please feel free to ask.

Thanks for using AllExperts.com,
Kim