How to stop your kid from terrorising the dog

Repeatedly using words with toddlers in the form of lectures or warnings is a bad idea. Instead, calmly empathise by echoing a Calm Signal (this sound or word or phrase is meant to supplant swearing) and take action. Photo: TNS/Dreamstime

Dear Kid Whisperer,

I am writing for my dog and my child. My three-year-old abuses my Cocker Spaniel. I’m sad for my dog and worried for my kid. My dog doesn’t bite, but I think she might if pushed too far. My son’s specialty is hitting my dog with various objects. We have talked to him over and over, and the behaviour has not improved. What’s left?