Dog bites are a scary thought all on their own, but when it involves a child, it is even worse. Children are vulnerable and they are defenseless, and for a dog driven to predator or pack mentality, they are extremely easy prey. One key mistake, however, is thinking that the only thing you need to do is train your dog or make sure that your child is only around well trained dogs. Both you and your child have a responsibility as well. Your child should not be allowed to mistreat any animal, whether you are familiar with it or not. Dogs are living things. Just as they need to be taught and trained to behave towards children and other dogs, your child needs to learn not to mistreat a dog. Tail, hair, and ear pulling are not acceptable behaviors; dogs are not stuffed animals and toys, and it stands to reason that even the most even tempered dog will get sick, tired, disturbed, and ultimately extremely irritated by a child who continually jumps on his back or squeeze him to death. So, preventing dog bites in children is a twofold task: it involves training the dog and your child.

For starters, it is best to keep your child away from dogs you do not know, even if it is a cute little dog. You should never try to – or let your child – befriend a strange dog, especially if the dog’s owner is not around and the dog is not on a leash or otherwise restrained. Do not let your child pet unfamiliar dog, always stay away from dogs that are not restrained, and always ask permission before petting a strange dog.
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