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A young child sits on grass holding an apple beside a dog lying among autumn leaves. A young child sits on grass holding an apple beside a dog lying among autumn leaves.

Staying Safe With Dogs

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Being around dogs can feel worrying, especially if you’re unsure how your child will react or stay safe. Most dogs are friendly, but it’s important to understand how to behave safely around them. You’re not alone in feeling this way, and support and advice are available to help you feel more confident.

More about staying safe with dogs

Staying safe with dogs means helping your child understand how to behave around dogs and knowing how dogs might react. Dogs are part of many families, and most are friendly, but they can bite if they feel scared, worried, or disturbed. Many bites happen at home with a dog your child already knows.

Situations that can lead to problems often happen during everyday moments. Dogs may react if they are eating, sleeping, playing with a favourite toy, or if they feel crowded or overwhelmed. Young children can be noisy, quick, and unpredictable, which some dogs find hard to cope with.

It can feel worrying if you’re unsure how your child and a dog will get along. You might feel anxious leaving them together, even for a short time. Watching for signs that your child or the dog is uncomfortable can help you feel more in control and keep everyone safer.

You should seek help if your child has been bitten or scratched, or if you’re worried about their safety around a dog. It’s also a good idea to get advice if you’re unsure how to manage your child and a dog together. Support is available to help you keep your child safe and build confidence.

Questions and answers

How can I help my child stay safe around dogs?
Teach your child to be calm and gentle with all dogs. Show them not to shout, tease, or hug too tightly. Stay close and watch them when they are with a dog, especially when they are young.
Why do dogs sometimes bite children?
Dogs may bite if they feel scared, annoyed, or disturbed. This can happen if they are eating, sleeping, or playing with a toy. Young children can move quickly or make loud noises, which can worry some dogs.
What are the signs a dog is unhappy or needs space?
A dog may move away, growl, stiffen, or show its teeth. It might also turn its head away or tuck its tail. These are signs the dog needs space and should be left alone.
When should my child leave a dog alone?
Tell your child to leave a dog alone when it is eating, sleeping, or resting in its own space. They should also not disturb a dog with a toy or treat. Giving dogs quiet time helps keep everyone safe.
When should I seek help or advice?
Get help if your child has been bitten or scratched, even if it seems small. You should also ask for advice if you feel unsure about your child being around a dog. Support can help you feel more confident and keep your child safe.

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