Children are naturally drawn to dogs and quite possibly vice versa. These furry friends are playful and tolerant, and they teach us empathy. However, dogs can also be unpredictable.
Despite their love for the animals, young kids often fail to understand the potential dangers involved. They might misread the signals a dog is sending, make sudden movements that scare them, or simply speak too loudly. It is our responsibility as adults to teach children safe behavior around dogs as well as how to respect the animal's space and not provoke them.
Teach Them to Read Canine Body Language
You might be surprised to learn that aggressive behavior in dogs can be prevented, as bites and attacks are rarely sudden and unprovoked. Even in cases of dogs that are usually easy-going and very well-behaved, something can happen to trigger an aggressive reaction by the dog. For example, it could be injured and in pain, so they are trying to protect themselves by biting. A dog can also bite out of fear, such as in cases when they are startled by loud noises, rapid movements, or new situations. Dogs that aren't used to being around people, or children specifically, may be more prone to sudden reactions.
Teaching your child to read these signs and be able to recognize when a dog wants their space, when they're in pain, or simply aggravated or not feeling safe, is crucial for avoiding such incidents. Sometimes, these signs are very subtle or quiet, but they tell us a lot if we know what to pay attention to.
Learning to understand a dog's body language means observing signals like:
- Wagging tail: It can signal a dog is happy, but when it's held high and stiff, a wagging tail signals the dog is upset or anxious.
- The lip lick: This signal can be about food, but more often than not, it's a sign that the dog is overstimulated and/or scared, and is asking you to give them some space.
- The turning head: This is a clear signal that the dog doesn't want to be approached and isn't in the mood to play.
- Showing the whites of their eyes: One of the signs of aggression, by showing the whites of their teeth, a dog communicates fear, discomfort, and anxiety. Observe the overall body language so as not to confuse this with a friendly "grin".
Set Clear Rules
When interacting with dogs, children benefit from specific rules and guidelines. Establish some ground rules and make sure to follow them. For example, teach your kids never to approach a dog without their owner's permission to avoid surprises. Advise your child never to force hugs or grab the dog suddenly as it may trigger unexpected reactions. Explain to your child that sudden movements scare the dog, so it's best if they keep their demeanor calm and lower their voices.
Enforce these rules consistently every time your kid interacts with a dog. With clear rules and time, your children will learn how to behave around dogs and will become better and better in reading the signs.
Supervise
Active supervision is key in preventing dog-related incidents. Even with all the training and advice, you should never leave children alone with a dog. Dogs can be unpredictable, even the ones you know very well, so an adult should always be present. Supervising the interaction allows you to intervene if necessary, for example, if you notice that the dog is showing signs of discomfort. Stay close enough so you can act immediately if needed to protect both the child and the dog.
What to Do When Things Don't Go As Planned
Training and supervision help minimize the risks of incidents, but they can still happen, despite best efforts. When things don't go as planned, it is crucial not to panic, but to try to remain calm and present so you can take immediate action. In cases of dog bites, parents are often left confused and unsure about the next steps, from cleaning the wound to seeking medical care.
Knowing what to do after a dog bite can help you respond proactively, take the right steps right away, and minimize the harm. While the injury may be minor, all dog bites should be checked due to the risk of developing infections such as rabies, which is still a serious threat that leads to thousands of deaths every year. Seek immediate medical help to minimize the risks.
Final Thoughts
Teaching kids how to safely interact with dogs is not an overnight thing. It's a process that takes time and patience, for the kids as well as for the dogs. It requires multiple skills, such as understanding canine body language and enforcing clear rules and supervision. By combining knowledge, awareness, and quick action, families can enjoy precious moments with pets without the risk of harm.
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