Many parents come to us and say their dog just growled (or snapped) at their child “out of the blue.”

But, it rarely starts with a growl.

Your dog typically gives you subtle signals and clues well before reaching that point of discomfort. Have you noticed your dog acting differently when your kids or their friends are around, but you’re not quite sure what it means? If so, this workshop can help you better understand what your dog is trying to tell you.

As loving parents, we all want nothing but the best for our children – and that includes ensuring their safety and well-being in every aspect of their lives. It’s natural to feel uneasy if you’ve noticed anything that may suggest that your dog’s behavior is a cause for concern when interacting with your kids or their friends. While your furry family member may have always been a cherished part of the family, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to maintain a harmonious home environment.

 Ignoring the Warning Signs is a Risky Choice 

It’s easy to fall into the trap of assuming that your dog would never intentionally harm your children or their friends. However, overlooking potential signs of discomfort or stress in your dog’s behavior can pose a risk to both your pet and your children. Just as we rely on open communication with our loved ones, it’s essential to listen to the cues your dog may be giving – they might be trying to tell you something important.

In this workshop, Ria Goodyear will discuss how to maintain a healthy relationship between your children and your dog. She will delve into the intricacies of dog behavior, teaching you how to decipher their subtle cues and signals. By learning to read your dog’s body language, you’ll be equipped with the invaluable skill of identifying stress, discomfort, or any potential concerns that may arise during interactions with your children. Addressing any concerns head-on is a step towards fostering a safe and joyful environment for everyone. Drawing from more than a decade of hands-on expertise in canine training and complemented by her firsthand experience raising a young child around several dogs, Ria Goodyear brings a treasure trove of insights and wisdom to this workshop. She will be sharing this expertise with you in her workshop to help you nurture a safe relationship between your kids and the dog.

This 2 hour workshop (Oct. 14 at noon) is for the human end of the leash. Children are welcome, but please leave your dog at home for this one. 

Your instructor:

Ria’s training journey began when she acquired her first personal dog, Binx, a captivating Border Collie and Blue Heeler mix. He sparked her passion for dog behavior and training. After working for more than a decade as a dog trainer in various locations in Wisconsin, and continuously seeking knowledge from experienced trainers and seminars, Ria now brings her commitment and expertise to MuttSchool.