Dog owners are responsible for teaching their dogs to behave around other dogs, humans, and especially kids. On the other hand, parents are responsible for teaching their kids how to behave around dogs, whether it’s the family dog or one they see for the first time. It has been an important lesson for our kids as they have grown up to understand that not all dogs will behave like the ones we were lucky enough to share our home with! This post is some safety tips we picked up along the way.
Dogs can be unpredictable, but so can young children. It’s important to follow a few rules to ensure their safe interactions. Here are some safety tips around dogs that children of all ages, as well as their parents, should be aware of.
Always ask for permission before petting a dog
Kids should always ask for permission before petting or approaching a dog they don’t know. If they are too young to talk, their parents should ask the dog’s owner if they can pet the animal safely.
Not all dogs feel comfortable being approached by people they don’t know, and a dog feeling grouchy, nervous or annoyed will be more likely to bite. Read my article on helping dogs to be calm around children.
Learn how to read the body language of dogs
One of the most important of these kids’ safety tips around dogs is that kids should be taught how to read the body language of dogs. When a dog’s ears are flat on his head, his tail is between his legs, and he looks tense, the child should leave him alone.
When a dog is growling, the child should look down and stop moving. Also, remember that a dog wagging his tail is not necessarily happy or friendly. He could be angry or agitated.
Avoid maintaining constant eye contact with a dog
Kids must understand that they must avoid maintaining constant eye contact with a dog, even if it’s a dog they know very well. Why? Because eye to eye contact is how dogs establish dominance. When a tiny human stares at them, they might feel challenged or threatened. And they might react aggressively.
Don’t get too close to a dog
Dogs also dislike it when kids get too close to them, try to climb on them, or get right in their faces. Once again, they might feel threatened and react aggressively. Parents should ensure their children keep a safe distance from dogs, especially when they are unfamiliar with them. If it’s their family dog, he should eventually get used to being patient around curious children.
Don’t approach a dog when he is eating
For mealtime, you should purchase quality brands like Orijen dog food. However, kids should never approach a dog when it is eating, whether it’s in its food bowl or enjoying some dog treats. Some dogs can be possessive about their food. If they think a child is trying to steal it, they could get upset and bite. It’s always best to wait until a dog is done eating to approach him.
Never disturb a dog who is sleeping
Similarly, kids should learn never to disturb a dog when he’s sleeping. Plus, whenever a dog goes to his crate or bed, even if he’s not sleeping, it’s best to leave him alone. Dogs retreat to their own space when they feel anxious or overwhelmed, and it’s important for kids not to bother them in these situations.
Wait for the dog to bring you his toy
It’s okay for kids to play with a friendly dog as long as they get permission from their owner. However, they should never take a toy from a dog. Instead, kids should wait for the dog to bring them his toy so they can play together. Remember that some dogs are very possessive and might get angry if they think someone is trying to steal their toys.
Never pull on a dog’s tail or ears
Kids should never pull on a dog’s tail or ears, even if it’s a dog they know well. Even a friendly and patient dog has its limits. Kids need to be taught to respect dogs and not to do anything that might hurt or annoy them.
Don’t make loud noises around dogs
Kids need to understand that loud noises can scare dogs or make them feel threatened. They should avoid yelling or throwing toys around, especially when they are in the presence of a dog they don’t know.
Never approach a chained dog
Finally, kids need to know that it’s unsafe to approach a chained dog or one kept in a cage. Chained or caged dogs cannot escape if they feel threatened or uncomfortable. As a result, they can react aggressively when a child approaches them. So, the best safety tip for kids who see a chained or caged dog is to stay away.
