Helping Kids Build Safe, Respectful Relationships with Dogs
Written by Kiyoka Tamesue, PSM, KPA CTP
Bringing home a new dog is a joyous occasion for the entire family, especially for young kids. Dogs and children can form wonderful bonds that foster responsibility, empathy, and patience. However, young children often lack the skills to read a dog’s body language, which can lead to misunderstandings and even bites.
At The Cooperative Canine, we believe that responsible pet ownership includes preparing your family and home environment for your new dog long before they arrive. If you have little ones, educating yourself and your children on safe, respectful interactions with dogs is essential. We hope this article helps you set up a successful, safe introduction for you and your new furry family member!
Choosing the Right Dog for Your Family
Before adopting a dog, it's essential to consider how well they fit with your family and lifestyle. Important factors to consider include breed, size, age, energy level, exercise requirements, level of care, training needs, and behavior history.
Most shelters and rescues conduct some type of behavioral assessment on animals in the shelter before making them available for adoption. Based on those observations, they may make specific recommendations to help you make an informed, responsible adoption decision. For example, a large dog who gets jumpy or mouthy during play may be best suited to a home without very young children to reduce the risk of accidental injury.
Teaching Kids Dog Etiquette
Helping kids learn how to safely and respectfully interact with dogs is crucial. Here are some key lessons to teach:
Ask for Permission: Children should always ask an adult and the dog’s owner before approaching a dog.
Gentle Touch Only: Show kids how to pet a dog gently, typically on the side or back. Avoid sensitive areas like the face, belly, tail, and paws.
Respect a Dog’s Safe Space: Teach children to leave dogs alone when they’re sleeping, eating, or resting in their designated areas.
Avoid Chasing Games: Running or chasing can make dogs feel threatened and trigger an instinctual reaction.
No Hugs or Kisses: Many dogs are uncomfortable with face-to-face contact or restraint. Teach kids to avoid putting their faces close to a dog’s mouth to reduce the risk of bites.
Use Inside Voices: Loud noises can scare or stress dogs, so encourage children to stay calm around them.
How Parents and Caregivers Can Help
Parents and guardians play an essential role in modeling safe, respectful behavior around dogs. Here are some tips:
Safe, Slow Introductions: Most bites to children occur with dogs the child knows. Avoid rushing interactions, and allow both the dog and child to adjust at their own pace.
Educate Early and Often: Use simple, consistent messages about dog safety. Books, videos, and infographics can make learning fun.
Supervise All Interactions: Always supervise interactions between young children and dogs. Sudden movements or noises can startle even the friendliest dogs.
Create a Safe Space for the Dog: Provide your dog with a "no-kids zone" where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Baby gates, crates, or designated rooms can create a peaceful space for your dog.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Encourage children to handle dogs gently, and use positive reinforcement training to teach your dog calm interactions.
Understanding Why Dogs Bite
Biting is often a dog's way of communicating discomfort, fear, or pain. Most dogs will express fear or unease with their body language long before resorting to biting. Here are some common reasons a dog may bite:
Fear or Anxiety: New situations, sudden movements or noises, and unfamiliar people can all be overwhelming. Children move quickly and make higher-pitched sounds than adults, which can be intimidating for dogs unfamiliar with kids or those who’ve had stressful experiences around them.
Pain or Illness: Dogs in pain or discomfort may behave aggressively to protect themselves. If your dog is sick or injured, encourage children to give them space and a quiet environment.
Resource Guarding: Dogs may guard their food, toys, or favorite resting spots. Teach children not to bother a dog while they’re eating or playing with their favorite items.
Feeling Overwhelmed: Constant petting, excitement, or hugging may overstimulate a dog, making them feel cornered or irritated.
Common Indicators of Fear, Anxiety, and Stress in Dogs
Teaching children how to recognize and respond to signs of fear, anxiety, and stress in a dog is essential for bite prevention and safe relationships.
If your child or you notice any of the following behaviors in a dog, stop the interaction and give the dog space:
Frozen or stiff body posture
Shaking off when not wet, yawning when not tired, or panting when not hot
Turning their body or head away
Growling, snapping, or showing teeth
Ears pinned back against the head
Hair raised along the back or shoulders
“Whale eye” (showing the whites of the eyes)
Additional Bite Prevention Tips
Avoid Rough Play: Tug-of-war or wrestling can lead to overstimulation or aggression.
Be Wary of Surprises: Teach kids not to startle dogs, especially while they’re eating or resting.
Know Your Dog’s Limits: Respect your dog’s tolerance for certain activities or handling.
What to Do if a Bite Occurs
In the rare event of a bite, stay calm to prevent escalating the situation.
Separate the Child and Dog: Calmly separate them to prevent further injury.
Care for the Wound: Clean the bite and apply first aid. Seek medical attention if necessary.
Identify the Cause: Reflect on what may have triggered the bite and adjust future interactions to prevent similar situations.
Report the Bite: If the bite broke the skin, contact your local Animal Protection and Control agency for guidance.
Consider Professional Help: If your dog shows signs of discomfort or aggression regularly, consult a certified behavior consultant.
Building Lasting, Safe Friendships
At The Cooperative Canine, LLC, we believe that children and dogs can form lifelong friendships with the right guidance and education. Bite prevention starts with understanding dog behavior, teaching kids safe interaction skills, and creating a home where both kids and dogs feel safe and loved.
