Bark Smart
Supported by Lancashire Constabulary
Supported by Lancashire Constabulary
Bark Smart
Interactive Dog Safety Education for Children, Families, and Communities
Fun, practical workshops and courses that teach children how to understand dogs, stay safe, and prevent dog bites, helping to reduce incidents, improve child safety, and protect dogs within our communities.
Already reaching schools across the North West, Bark Smart delivers measurable impact, with a 94% post-session pass rate and a 5* feedback from teachers, parents and pupils.
With dog related incidents continuing to rise, early education is key. Bark Smart equips children with the knowledge and confidence to stay safe around dogs, at home, in school, and in the community
Featuring our friendly Bark Smart dogs, Albert, Spider, Viva, Boomer, Dava and Rani, helping children learn through safe, real-life interactions.
The Bark Smart Safety Code
Teaching children essential skills to stay safe around dogs
1
Always Ask Before Stroking a Dog
Never approach or touch without permission.
2
Be Calm and
Gentle
Sudden movements or loud voices can scare dogs.
3
Never Disturb Dogs Eating or Sleeping
Give them quiet
space
4
Learn When a Dog Needs Space
Watch for growls, stiffening, or walking away.
5
If a Dog Runs Toward You
Be a Tree. Stand still, hands down, calm and quiet.
Meet the Bark Smart Dogs
Children connect with our friendly Bark Smart Dogs
Albert
The Playful Helper
Albert is full of energy and loves to meet every child! He encourages children to use kind hands and calm voices when interacting with dogs. Kids love his cheeky personality and wagging tail.
Viva
The Graceful Guide
Viva, our elegant Afghan Hound, shows children how to watch a dog’s body language and know when to give space. She’s calm, confident, and always ready to meet new friends.
Spider
The Calm Leader
Spider is our wise Tibetan Spaniel who loves showing children how to approach dogs gently and stay calm. He’s always ready for a cuddle and makes every child feel confident around dogs.
Boomer
The Fun-Loving Performer
Boomer is our retired Heelwork-to-Music superstar! In sessions, he plays games, shows tricks, and keeps children engaged while teaching safe ways to approach and play with dogs.
Rani
The Gentle Giant
Rani is a Scottish Deerhound who loves greeting children and showing how big dogs can be gentle. She helps children practise safe approaches and learn how to respect a dog’s space.
Dava
The Friendly Companion
Dava, Rani’s sibling, enjoys meeting everyone and helping children feel comfortable around taller dogs. She teaches patience, respect, and calm interactions in a fun, hands-on way.
Bark Smart Impact
Bark Smart
What Children Learn
Hands-on learning in workshops
Safe approaches and interactions with dogs.
Recognising dog body language and warning signs.
Understanding when dogs need space.
Safe games and play around dogs.
What to do if a dog runs toward them.
Who We Work With
Bark Smart programmes are suitable for:
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Primary schools & SEND schools.
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Community centres & clubs.
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Assisted living facilities.
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Parents looking for online learning.
We work with schools, SEND settings, community centres, and assisted living facilities across the UK
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Parent Course & Resources
Take learning further at home with our Bark Smart Parent Course
Teach families dog body language, safe interaction, and how to prevent dog bite incidents.
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90 minute online course.
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Certificate on completion.
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Easy, practical modules.
Book a Workshop or Contact Us
Bark Smart workshops are fully interactive, hands-on, and tailored to your group
How Businesses Can Support Our Mission
We are looking for businesses both local and national to help us expand our reach and bring Bark Smart into as many schools as possible. Your support can make a real difference in educating children and preventing unnecessary accidents.
Ways to get involved:
Parental Guidance
Keeping Children Safe Around Dogs
Most dog bites involving children happen with a dog the child already knows.
At Bark Smart, our mission is to educate children and parents on safe interactions with dogs. Understanding how to approach, respect, and establish boundaries with dogs helps prevent accidents and builds positive relationships between children and pets.
Teachers Testimonials
Discover the exciting insights from amazing teachers about Bark Smart!
