Young children may easily be injured (usually on their hands and face) by dogs, because of their small size and weak strength.

Even if an incident with a dog does not result in a noticeable injury, a child’s attitude toward and fears of dogs (and animals, in general) can suffer. Experts including veterinarians and early childhood educators agree that young children who learn some basic principles—about how to show affection to a dog, when not to approach a dog, and what do to if a dog attacks—will avoid most attacks.  So to give yourself some peace of mind and protect your children from trauma: teach them some basic dog safety rules.

Mary Renck Jalongo, early childhood educator, compiled the list below of excellent guidelines for children in the July 2008 issue of Early Childhood Education Journal.  Sources of this list include the American Veterinary Medical Association, The American Kennel Club, The National Association of Humane and Environmental Education (quite impressive!).

How to greet a dog:

• Always ask the owner if it is okay before you touch a strange dog.
• To make friends, let a dog sniff the back of your hand first, then pet it gently—but not on the face or head.
• When you meet a dog, find out about the dog from the owner. If you do things that the dog likes, he will like you.

How to show affection and care:

• If you give a dog a treat, put it in the palm of your hand. If you hold it in your fingers, the dog might grab at the food and accidentally bite you. 
• Don’t hug, squeeze, or kiss a dog. It might get scared and bite your face.

How to show respect:

• Don’t bother dogs while they are eating.  They might think that you are trying to steal their food.
• Never tease a dog. If you are mean to them, they won’t want to be your friend. ·
• Don’t take away a dog’s toy or play rough games like pulling and chasing. Dogs can get excited and snap at you or knock you down.

When not to approach a dog:

• Don’t bother dogs while they are eating.  They might think that you are trying to steal their food.
• Never reach in a fence, car, or crate to pet a dog—even a dog you know. Dogs protect their property.
• If a dog is sleeping, leave it alone. A dog that is scared may jump or bite.
• Don’t try to pet a dog that is tied outside. Dogs that are tied outside can get sad or mad.
• If a dog is sick or lost or hurt, get an adult to help. Dogs that are afraid sometimes bite.
• Don’t bother a momma dog that is taking care of her puppies. If she thinks you are hurting or taking away her puppies, she might bite.

What to do if a dog frightens or hurts you:

• If a strange dog runs up to you or jumps on you, stand still and be quiet.
• If a dog chases after you, don’t run and scream.  Be quite and stay still.  Usually, the dog will go away.
• If a dog knocks you down, be quiet, curl up in a ball, and cover your face and neck with your arms and hands.

Many people’s fondest childhood memories include dogs.  To ensure more of those kinds of happy childhood memories, teach your young children to interact properly with a dog, whether there is one in the home or not. It is an important life skill—like learning to swim and not talking to strangers.

Next: Preschoolers and Pets

By Anne Oxenreider

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