Teaching Children How to Avoid Dog Bites

​As a people who love and live with dogs, unfortunately dog bites are something many people experience at some point in their lives.  Over 50% of the victims of dog bites are children.  Often children are bitten by dogs due to circumstances that could have been prevented with a little training.  Any dog can bite under the right circumstances, especially when frightened.  Teaching children the following tips can help to decrease their chances of being involved in a dog bite:

• Never approach an unknown dog that is out wandering loose on its own.
• If a strange dog is approaching with its owner, always ask the owner permission to touch their dog.
• If a strange dog runs up to you and seems upset (barking or growling), stand “tall and still like a tree.”  Never run away from a dog that is barking or growling.
• If a dog is upset, be still and quiet.  Never escalate the situation by yelling, kicking or hitting, or making any other sudden movements.
• Give your dog a child free “safe place” such as a dog bed or crate.  Teach the child that if the dog is in this area they are to be left alone.
• Teach children how to approach a dog.  It is safest to crouch down, extend your hand, and wait for the dog to move toward you.  If they come closer, start petting by scratching under the chin.
• Teach children to never try to pick up a dog.
• Teach children to never chase a dog.
• If a dog is nervous, special treats like peanut butter or cheese may help to calm the situation.
• Make sure all contact between young children and dogs, even the family pet, is supervised by an adult.
• Teach children to not disturb a dog when it is eating or sleeping.
• If a dog does bite an adult or child, contact your family physician for recommendation for treatment.

With a little education and supervision, most children can learn to be excellent dog handlers.  Teaching kids to treat dogs calmly with kindness and respect can lead to a lifetime of happy canine companionship for the whole family.
For additional dog bite related resources, visit AVMA.org
Dr. Leah Thies

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