Since the tragic death of 13-month-old Archie-Lee Hirst in Wakefield last week, after being attacked by a Rottweiler, many parents will be understandably concerned about the safety of their own children around dogs. The terrible incident is under investigation by the police but sadly the circumstances surrounding the actions of this particular dog may never be fully understood. Whether you've owned your family pet dog for years or are visiting a friend or relative with a dog that you don't know quite as well, these guidelines are a recommendation on the best course of action to ensure safety around all dogs and to encourage harmony in the home. Advice for parents  Children under the age of ten should NEVER be left unsupervised with any dog, even for a few moments.- Dogs do not always appreciate being hugged or cuddled unless familiar with it from an early age. Slowly find out what the dog will accept, supervising constantly to ensure no unacceptable behaviour occurs on either side.
- Make sure children give the dog space and allow the dog to come to them and remain calm around dogs at all times. High pitched squeals can also upset a dog.
- Children should never approach or disturb a dog that is sleeping, or follow a dog that is trying to find a quiet space to get away.
- Children need to learn not to tease or bully the dog and the dog has to learn not to jump up at children or be too boisterous.
- Experiences during the first year of a dog's life make all the difference to future temperament and character. Take the time to socialise your puppy can result in a friendly adult dog that enjoys the company of people. Socialising is easy and means simply taking your puppy out and about as much as possible, meeting lots of people and other dogs. Read our leaflet on Socialising your dog.
- A good puppy socialisation class can help your training. Puppies are usually admitted between the ages of 12 and 20 weeks and the entire family is encouraged to attend.
- Happy dogs usually don't bite, but all dogs may bite if they feel threatened or if they are very excited.
- Dogs don't know right from wrong and they have to be taught how to behave (just like children). Read our leaflet on Training your dog.
- Animals react to what is around them and how they feel. If they feel unwell and the room is noisy, they may react differently than if they the room is quiet or they feel well.
Please teach your children this code to help them stay safe around animals: How to behave around dogs - Always ask the owner before touching any animal.
- Listen to what the owner tells you.
- Animals may be frightened by sudden movements so walk, don't run or jump.
- Give the animal plenty of space so it doesn't feel scared.
- Be quiet and talk quietly when around animals. No squealing!
- Only feed an animal if the owner has told you to do so.
- Never approach a dog when it's sleeping or feeding or drinking, or try to remove its toy.
- Never be cross, hit, smack or kick a dog.
- Always call a dog to you and leave him alone if he doesn't come (don't pull him off a sofa, for example).
- Don't play games where the dog chases you, or rough and tumble games. See our leaflet on How to play with your dog.
If a dog approaches you - If a dog approaches you, stand tall (like a tree), tuck away your hands and look away when a strange or excited dog comes up to you.
- Never run away as dogs love to chase.
- If a dog is aggressive and you are knocked over, curl up small (like a rock), tuck in your head and cover your ears with folded arms.
- Always drop any toys or food so the dog goes away.
- If you are on a bike and a dog chase you, get off on the opposite side and put the bike between yourself and the dog.
- If a dog tries to bite or jump up, put your bag between yourself and the dog.
Suggested further reading for parents and children
The Canine Commandments by Kendal Shepherd (Broadcast Books)
Our BX Kids page on games to play with your dog Our All About Pets website contains many leaflets that may be helpful to read, particularly: How to play with your dog
Training your dog
Introducing your dog to the family
Nervous dogs
Socialising your dog
January 2008
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