GOOD DOGS DON’T BITE

 

Summer is prime injury time, and dog bites are no exception. Many children are home without supervision and most dog bites happen at home with dogs known to the child. The most frequent biters? Unneutered male dogs. The most frequently bitten? Boys 5 to 9 years old.

 

Many of these bites are the result of human error and can be prevented. First and foremost  the rule in every home should be to  teach your child how to behave around dogs, and you need to learn the warning signs that your dog has had enough. Teach your household to keep things S.A.F.E.– Supervise, Anticipate, Follow through and Educate.

 

Do not leave young kids and dogs out of sight together. If you cannot supervise them, then separate them. Use a baby gate, crate your dog, or keep the dog on a leash. Young children often will poke a dog in the eye. Many dogs are great around kids and will tolerate this, but why should they? Be an advocate for your dog and teach your child that it cannot pull ears, jump on, chase, hit, scream at, et cetera the animal in your home. Never allow a child to do to an animal what you would not allow done to a toddler in your care.

 

If your dog is shy, it does not belong at the child’s birthday party. Before the kids arrive, crate your dog or put him in a quiet room away from the children. If your child is the recipient of the latest noisy toy on the market, your dog would probably appreciate being crated or separated from all the noise. If you have feelings of concern/doubt/worry/or anxiety about a situation, act first so you don’t have to react later.

 

Dogs are dogs. They understand their world and what it means to be a dog. In our world we need to teach them. If your dog never sees children, borrow some when the dog is young and teach him to behave around kids. Want him to behave with kids near his food dish? Then he needs to learn the rules too. When there are no children around try dropping a good treat in his bowl. If he acts aggressive about the treat by growling, or guarding the food you may have a problem and a good training class may be needed. Practice having the dog gently take treats from your hand. Hold his tail gently for a moment. Give him a treat, praise and release. Hold a paw and repeat the behavior. Reward the dog each time. Have an older dog practice with the child. Remember it is our job to keep our children and animals safe. Practice the S.A.F.E. steps and your home will be a happier one.