Rescue Dogs

Congratulations on the new additions to your family. I had pets before kids, so mine just grew up together with no problems but I am a little more cautious with DGC.

Good advice from granjura and Nanadogsbody My almost 4 year old DGD loves my greyhounds From an early age (always supervised) she has helped to feed them and I have always taught her to leave them well alone while they are eating so she waits to reward them with treats and fills up the water bowl. She likes to help to walk them and we do often round our enclosed churchyard which is safe for both her and dogs. Our baby GSs are learning to gently pat the dogs.

She also likes to groom the dogs although whippets like greyhounds need very little as they don't generally moult as much as other breeds both find it an enjoyable experience.

Also we always wash our hands after touching the dogs and however enjoyable licky kisses although sometimes unavoidable are not encouraged.

Welcome abooth1. We've always had dogs, but grandchildren only appeared 6 years ago. Whippets are known for their gentle dispositions, but beware they are rescue dogs. You don't know what they have been through. Take it very carefully at first. It also depends on the age of your grandson, but if he is the same one who helped you get on Gransnet then there shouldn't be a problem.

As granjura said keep an eye and NEVER allow your grandson to put his face close to them or to try to outstare them. Get him to give them tipbits and their dinner if at all possible. This will establish in their minds that he is higher up,the pack order than they are. Don't let them barge though doors ahead of you or your family. And give them plenty of exercise. Finally never, ever hit or smack them for my reason, use you voice to discipline them. Even better take thm to doggy training classes, you'll make new friends and learn so much.

Enjoy your new additions.

Well done for taking on rescue dogs - they live so much longer and are often much healthier. Our current dog had a very tough time in her early years, and now she has fallen on her feet is jealous as hell of any other dogs or children. So we would never leave her alone with the grand-children and always keep an eye. The grandkids love her, but they know not to put their face right up to hers, always stay upright and not 'tease' - and we keep a very close eye all the time. Well done you- how old is your grand-son?

Welcome, abooth, not that I am qualified to answer you, but we have plenty of grans who are. Enjoy Gransnet.