Child and dog safety

Safety in the home

The best way to keep everyone safe in the home is to always actively watch children and dogs if they’re together – no matter how well you know the dog or the child.

Here are some extra ways you can keep everyone safe – and have fun too!

Space when dogs are eating and drinking

Food is very important to most dogs. They can feel worried if someone comes too near while they’re eating. Worse still, they might think that person is going to take their food away! That’s why it’s good to give dogs space when they’re eating a meal or enjoying some tasty treats. This helps them feel comfortable and happy.

Space when dogs are sleeping and resting

As with many animals, sleep and rest is vital for a dog’s wellbeing. If a dog is asleep or resting, it’s best to leave them alone and give them space. This applies whether the dog is in their bed, on the sofa, or even lying on the floor.

Space when dogs are playing by themselves

Dogs like playing in lots of different ways, whether it’s in the company of humans or separately by themselves with toys. Whenever a dog is playing with a toy alone, always give them space.

Playing together – two-toy fetch

Two-toy fetch is a brilliant and safe way to play with a dog. It’s perfect for children if there’s an adult actively watching.

How to play

To get started, grab two of the same toys and follow these steps:

1. Hold both toys in your hands and throw toy 1 for the dog to fetch.

2. When the dog returns with toy 1, ask them to ‘drop’ it or wait for them to drop it.

3. Throw toy 2.

4. While the dog fetches toy 2, pick up toy 1.

5. Repeat a few times, then let the dog have a break.

Two-toy fetch works really well because hands are kept away from the dog’s mouth. This reduces any snatching or grabbing in excitement – for both the child and the dog!

Swap hugs for snuggles

Snuggling is where a dog chooses to sit with you, or on your lap, without being restricted or prevented from moving away. If the dog wants to leave, they’re free to move away, which they can’t always do with a big hug or cuddle.

Safety out and about

Stroking somebody else’s dog

When we see dogs out and about, it’s not always best to approach them (as tempting as it might be!).

Daily walks are important for a dog’s wellbeing – they use this time to get busy sniffing and exploring. Most dogs generally prefer to do this with their owner without being disturbed by people they don’t know.

If you or your child do choose to stroke another person’s dog, follow these three Cs, which will keep you safe and the dog happy:

• Check: Ask the owner if you can stroke their dog. If they say ‘no’, there might be an important reason like the dog feeling poorly or being worried by strangers. And if this happens, politely say thank you and move away. But, if the owner says yes, follow the next step below.
• Call: Ask the dog’s permission by calling them over and giving them the choice to come to you if they want to. If they do approach you, follow the next step below.
• Count: Stand to the side of the dog and stroke their shoulder three times. Then pause to see if the dog remains near you. If they choose to move away at any time, let them go.

Dealing with unwanted attention from a dog

If you ever get some unwanted attention from a dog and want them to leave you alone, try these top tips.

If you’re standing up:

• Step 1: Drop anything you’re holding and cross your arms in an x shape over your neck and chest, with your hands closed in a fist.
• Step 2: Stand still like a statue.
• Step 3: Look away from the dog and wait for them to leave you alone or for someone to help you.

If you’re on the floor or knocked over by a dog, try curling up into a ball and tucking your head, arms and legs in, just like a tortoise. Stay like this until the dog leaves you alone.