Chasing kids

[Alisa KM]

Had a question about running kids. My boxer is very well socialized and has very positive associations with children. When my nieces start running, he does run after them, or rather with them in a playful manner.

He has never, in all his 7 years, chased and then nipped or bitten them or anything like that.

However, I read on ASPCA that you should never let a dog chase kids, especially smaller ones because even playful behavior can escalate into predatory behavior, especially if the kids start screaming or get scared. I am uncertain about this because he knows them so well already (the kids he does "chase"). When I tell him to stop, he does.

But it doesn't seem to me like he's chasing them to bring them down as prey, but rather just running along side them. Is this something I SHOULD be worried about or try to eliminate altogether? Any tips will do.

 

[whiskers]

I really would not worry about it. Supervise of course, but I wouldn't put a stop to behavior that has never been troublesome. Juno loves running with kids too

 

[Roge]

You know your dog best and if you think that there is not a problem with this then there isn't . When there is fun to be had your Boxer will be in the middle off it its just in their nature.

 

[Alisa KM]

hey all! yes that is what i think and feel. it seems totally harmless. he just kinda runs next to them, and then in front of them as if to get them to chase him in a game of tag! you're it. all very playful. always supervised. thanks!