When your child sees a strange dog, make sure you teach them to ask the owner if you can say "hello" to their dog first. They will let you know immediately if their dog is aggressive and can therefore prevent any kind of an incident from happening.
Pet the Dog "Underhand"
When your child greets a new dog it's a good idea to start out by petting them "underhand" - making hand contact under the dog's jaw. This will allow the dog to see what your hand is doing at every point and will show them that you are non-threatening to them.
Pat Gently - or Scratch
There are many dogs that just don't like being patted on the head so if you do, make sure it's very gentle. But a better idea would be to scratch them gently on the chest right between the front legs or have their back scratched right above the root of the dog's tail which dogs absolutely love!. (make sure not to touch the tail)
Do Not Touch a Dogs Tail or Paws
For some reason children love to grab a dogs tail. They're easy to reach and to pull which also get a fast reaction from the dog. Dogs can't see what's behind them and if something pulls their tail they will respond very quickly and you may get bit. Paws are delicate so please don't touch them. Back in their pack-hunting days, a dogs paws were their main means of survival. Naturally they're protective of them.
Do Not Push a Jumping or Playful Dog
First of all, when you push or pull on a dog, they will automatically respond to an equal and opposite force. This means they will definitely push and pull back. To stop a dog from jumping, a child needs to stay calm so they don't encourage the dog's behavior. Dogs love the high-pitched squealing and giggling. You need to work with your whole family on having commands such as a low-pitched "down" followed by physically separating child from dog.
Do Not Play Tug of War or Contest Games
Your child needs to understand that there are certain games that actually encourage a dog's aggression because it triggers their "prey instincts". One game in particular is "tug of war". This game will give your dog a chance to show it's strength and dominance by way of a contest. It may look cute when puppies thrash a stuffed toy, jerking their head from side to side, but this is a carry-over from when wolves had to snap the spine of their protesting prey. It's not the state of mind you want to promote.
If You See A Dog Tied Up - Keep Away
No matter how friendly a dog may look when you see them tied up, never approach or pet them. They can easily feel like they are being cornered by an approaching child and will act defensively. Dogs also feel challenged by a head-on approach and by direct eye contact. This kind of confrontation invites trouble and is best avoided.
Please, No "Attack" Commands or Threats
Your child should never have the words "Sic Him" in their vocabulary. They might think it's all fun and games but dogs can't tell the difference. Also, children must not be allowed to rush towards or corner a dog because this behavior can cause very dangerous reactions.
No Reprimands
If you want to avoid confusing your dog, especially a puppy, its best that children don't do the 'telling off'. You, the owner, or a professional trainer should be the only ones to do that. A child may know the right words but your (or the professional trainer) body language will be more consistent and will be more effective.
Start With A Few Simple Rules
Teach your children the basic training as explained above. Kids love to teach other kids what they know. You'll find that if you start them with these few simple rules, the knowledge will spread and lead to a safer relationship between kids and canines.
I sincerely hope this article was helpful to you. If you would like to gain more knowledge on good dog training and get a FREE 6-Day Mini Course today, please visit http://www.susans-dog-lovers-tips.blogspot.com and click on the drop down menu for your specific needs. While you're there, don't forget to check out "Putter's Doggie Tips for the Week"! Here's to loving your dog.
Don Sullivan The DogFather Fixes Dog Aggression & Dog Bites Australian Shepherd Max
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