The short version
Learning how to be safe around dogs is important for everyone, especially children, whether or not they have a dog at home. In order to make interactions between kids and dogs pleasant for all parties, we recommend teaching children how to approach a dog, what to do when they see a loose dog, and the proper way to treat dogs. AKC Canine Ambassadors — a network of volunteers nationwide that promotes purebred dogs, responsible dog ownership, and safety around dogs — provides some expert advice on this important topic.
1. Always ask, “May I pet your dog?”
“Some dogs have never met a child, don't live with a child, or just don't yet know what a child is, and the dog may think the child is scary.” - AKC Canine Ambassador Darleen Wheelington, South Arkansas Kennel Club
2. Slowly present the back of your hand first for the dog to smell
“Never reach right over the dog's muzzle or top of their head to pet them unless you have first presented your hand and are getting positive feedback from the dog.” - AKC Canine Ambassador Jaclynn Robertson, Coronado Kennel Club of New Mexico
3. Do not run toward a dog
“Often children run up to a dog with no hesitation whatsoever, and although I am happy to see love and not fear in their eyes, they need to be taught how to approach a dog.” - AKC Canine Ambassador Robyn Cosenza, Berkshire Belgian Tervuren Club
4. Never bark or growl at a dog
“Whether the dog is by itself, in a crate, or with a person, that is teasing the dog.” - AKC Canine Ambassador Kathy Davidson, Iowa City Dog Obedience Club
5. All dogs can bite because all dogs have teeth
“People should learn to read a dog's body language, respect a dog's space, and always supervise dogs and children.” - AKC Canine Ambassador Sandy Weaver Carman, Siberian Husky Club of America
Frequently asked questions
Dog bite prevention?
The AKC walks through this step by step — the key points are covered above, sourced to the AKC article linked on this page. Learning how to be safe around dogs is important for everyone, especially children, whether or not they have a dog at home. In order to make interactions betwe…
Dog bite prevention tools?
The AKC walks through this step by step — the key points are covered above, sourced to the AKC article linked on this page. Learning how to be safe around dogs is important for everyone, especially children, whether or not they have a dog at home. In order to make interactions betwe…
Dog bite prevention week?
The AKC walks through this step by step — the key points are covered above, sourced to the AKC article linked on this page. Learning how to be safe around dogs is important for everyone, especially children, whether or not they have a dog at home. In order to make interactions betwe…