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Teaching children about dog safety

On Behalf of | Jan 17, 2023 | Dog Bites

Teaching children about dog safety is an essential aspect of responsible pet ownership. Children are naturally drawn to dogs and may not understand the risks of interacting with them.

According to DogsBite.org, there is a one in 50 chance of a dog biting you in America. As a parent, you are responsible for educating your children on how to interact safely with dogs.

Teach body language

The first step in teaching children about dog safety is how to read a dog’s body language. Children should learn that a wagging tail does not always mean a friendly dog. Children also need to understand not to approach a growling dog or one showing its teeth.

Encourage safe interactions

Another important aspect of dog safety is how to approach and interact with a dog. Children should always let a dog sniff them before petting it. Never let your kids approach a dog from behind or reach over its head. Tell them not to pull on a dog’s ears or tail, ride or play rough with a dog.

Caution against unfamiliar dogs

It is also essential to teach children the importance of being aware of their surroundings when interacting with dogs. Children should avoid unfamiliar dogs and never approach a tied-up dog or one behind a fence. Tell your children that running or screaming around dogs is unsafe, as this can trigger their instincts to chase and herd.

Create a dog bite plan

Finally, teaching children what to do in case of a dog bite is vital. Stress that they should stay calm, tell an adult and seek medical attention if necessary.

Overall, teaching children about dog safety is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. Educating children about interacting with dogs can ensure they stay safe while respecting the animal’s boundaries.