Dogs and Kids: Part Three
Dogs rarely bite “out of nowhere.” Most bites are the result of stress signals that go unseen or ignored—especially by children who don’t yet understand a dog’s language. There are three common ways kids touch dogs that carry a high risk of a bite:
Unwanted petting – Kids often reach for dogs without asking, especially when the dog is resting, eating, or distracted.
Hugging and kissing – These are human signs of love, but dogs often see them as threatening or uncomfortable.
Rough handling – Pulling tails, grabbing fur, climbing on dogs, or playing too hard can quickly overwhelm even the sweetest pet.
It’s hard for kids to know when a dog wants to be touched. The truth is, most adults struggle with this too! Reading a dog’s body language takes awareness and practice—but it’s a skill anyone can learn.
Here’s an easy safety rule for families:
👉 Rather than going to the dog, invite the dog to come to you.
If the dog doesn’t come, that’s his polite way of saying, “No thanks.” Respect that choice. We want dogs to know they always have the option to walk away.
Even if your dog is very tolerant, remember—tolerance can run out. By giving your dog a voice and teaching your kids to listen, you create a safer, calmer, and more trusting relationship for everyone.
