Keeping children safe around dogs
Dogs and children communicate very differently, but they can be great friends and help children develop kindness and a sense of responsibility. Just remember our six golden rules for keeping your children safe and your dogs happy.
1. Stay with your children around dogs
Never leave your child alone in the same room as a dog, even your own.
2. Interact with dogs at the right times
Teach your child not to approach dogs when they're:
- Eating or having a treat
- Have a toy or something else they really like
- Sleeping
- Unwell, injured or tired
- Blind or deaf
3. Be gentle
Teach your child to be kind and polite to dogs. Don't let your child climb on dogs, pull their ears or do anything you wouldn't allow them to do to another child.
4. Play nicely and teach tricks
Teach your child how to play nicely with your dog. For example, your child can teach your dog some really fun tricks like shake a paw, play dead or roll-over.
5. Give your dog space if they need it
Supervise your child when they're with your dog - if your dog looks unhappy, let them go somewhere they feel safe and happy.
6. Don't let your children approach dogs they don't know
Don't allow your child to approach a dog they don't know, such as when you're out in the park.
Dogs like a break sometimes!
Give your dog a cosy spot in a quiet room where they can have their own space. Teach your child to leave your dog alone when they're in a private spot.
Download our poster on keeping your children safe around dogs.
