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Parental Guidance
Keeping Children Safe Around Dogs
Most dog bites involving children happen with a dog the child already knows. Below are some essential safety tips every parent should know.
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Dog Body Language
Signs a Dog Needs Space
Children should move away if a dog:
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Turns its head away
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Licks its lips repeatedly
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Shows the whites of its eyes
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Growls or stiffens
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Walks away
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Tucks its tail
Understanding dog body language is one of the most important ways to prevent dog bites.
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Be a Tree!
What Should a Child Do If a Dog Runs Towards Them?
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Important Advice for Parents
Parents should:
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Never leave young children alone with dogs
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Teach calm behaviour around dogs
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Ensure dogs have a quiet safe space
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Supervise all interactions between children and dogs
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Learn to recognise dog body language
Safe Games With Dogs
Parents should:
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Safe Games:
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Throwing a ball
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Hide and seek with treats
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Teaching simple tricks
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Obstacle games
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Avoid:
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Climbing on dogs
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Pulling ears or tails
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Hugging dogs tightly
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Wrestling
Things Every Child Should Know About Dogs:
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Ask before stroking
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Don’t disturb dogs eating or sleeping
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If a dog runs at you – be a tree
Learn More With the Bark Smart Parent Course
Our online Bark Smart Parent Course teaches families how to prevent dog bite incidents and help children understand dogs better.