How Should a Child Greet a New Dog?

I have to admit: when I was growing up (more years ago than I care to share, much less remember), the rule was that children did not pet strange dogs. Period. It was a firm rule in our household and, growing up, one that most other children I knew also were taught. We always had dogs in our home growing up and we petted and loved them endlessly (as seen above in my photo with my first dog, Henry) but, when we met a dog we did not know, we left him alone.

Now, however, I see children routinely run up and pet strange dogs. Many politely ask “can I pet your dog?” Some wait for an answer. Some ask then immediately reach to pet. Others just run and pet without warning.

Sadly, it’s a problem that in too many cases can cause dog bites. An Insurance Information Institute study states that about one-third of the total money paid out for homeowners’ liability claims overall was attributed to dog bites.

According to the Center for Disease Control, 82 percent of dog bites treated in the emergency room involve children under 15 years old.

SAFE Method for Greeting a Dog

Petco recently shared their method on how children can safely approach and interact with dogs. Petco Certified Dog Trainers recommend using the “SAFE” method ensures that a dog has a moment to meet a child and approach the child if they feel comfortable with petting.

S – Stop, stand still, and turn sideways before getting close to the dog.
A – Ask the pet parent for permission to pet the dog first.
F – Fist, offer a closed fist for the dog to sniff while standing still. Allow the dog to approach you. If the dog is friendly, pet the dog under its chin.
E – Exit slowly away from the dog by backing up, then walking away.

To avoid startling dogs, children should not run up to any unfamiliar dog or pet the animal on the top of the head or face.

What to Do if a Loose Dog Approaches a Child

If a loose dog approaches a child, Petco Certified Dog Trainers recommend that they “make like a tree” by standing as still as possible, keeping their hands by their sides or behind them, looking down at the ground and staying quiet.

Dogs will most likely lose interest and walk away, but children should stay in this position until they can no longer see the dog.

It’s important to remember to never try and pet a dog that is running loose without a pet parent nearby.

Tips on Avoiding Dog Bites for National Dog Bite Prevention Week & National Dog Bite Awareness Week

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Paris Permenter

Paris Permenter is the award-winning co-author, with John Bigley, of over 30 pet and travel books including The Healthy Hound Cookbook and Texas with Dogs, both available through Simon and Schuster. Paris is also a member of the Dog Writers Association of America.

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