05/28/2026
We love seeing children bond with family dogs, but dog walking should always be done safely.
A child should never be the sole person responsible for walking a dog they cannot physically control. Even the sweetest dog can become startled by another dog, wildlife, loud noises, or unexpected situations. In a split second, a child can be pulled down, dragged into traffic, or lose hold of the leash entirely.
Walking a dog safely is about more than love, it requires strength, awareness, training, and quick reaction time. Every dog is different, and size alone doesn’t determine control.
So when is it appropriate for a child to walk a dog?
• When the dog is well trained and manageable
• When the child is mature enough to follow safety rules
• When an adult is actively supervising
• When the environment is safe and predictable
• When the child can physically maintain control of the dog if something unexpected happens
There is nothing wrong with letting children participate by holding a second leash, helping during calm walks, or learning proper handling skills alongside an adult. Safety should always come first for the child, the dog, and everyone around them. 🩵
