Dogs and Children

As it can be difficult for children, aged 9 years and younger, to consistently adhere to the training outlined here, it is important for adults to closely monitor the dog’s interaction with any children. 

• Teach children to never approach any unfamiliar dogs or other animals because not all dogs are comfortable with strangers, let alone children. 

• Teach children to properly approach and meet dogs. Make sure that they know to approach dogs calmly and to ask the handlers for permission first. 

• Hugging is not a normal or comfortable act for dogs. Some dogs learn to tolerate hugs because they have learned to trust and love their family. Dogs that do not know your child may bite if hugged. 

• Teach children to be respectful and kind towards all animals. Never allow your children to tease or pester a dog, as this can place your child at serious risk. 

• Do not leave children unattended with a dog, particularly unfamiliar dogs. Even family pets have their breaking points. It is up to you to monitor your dog and children in order to keep everyone safe. 

• Do not allow children to eat or keep food around an unfamiliar dog or a dog that has not yet learned that snatching food is inappropriate. Keep in mind that children are much smaller than you and are of

ten regarded as playmates rather than superiors to dogs.

• Make sure children know when it is appropriate to run and scream when there is a dog present. The high energy of children playing, running, and screaming can get your dog highly aroused, causing him to instinctively chase, jump, or bite the children or redirect on any pets or people near them.