Always teach your child to ask the owner for permission before approaching a dog. Not all dogs are friendly or comfortable with strangers.
Instruct your child to approach dogs slowly and calmly, without sudden movements or loud noises. Sudden movements can startle a dog.
Teach your child to use appropriate body language around dogs. This includes not making direct eye contact, not reaching out over the dog's head, and avoiding any threatening gestures.
Encourage your child to let the dog come to them first, rather than trying to reach out to the dog. This allows the dog to approach at its own comfort level.
Sudden movements and loud noises can startle a dog and may lead to defensive behavior. Instruct your child to be calm and gentle around dogs.
Dogs can be protective of their food and resting spaces. Teach your child to avoid bothering dogs when they are eating or sleeping.
Instruct your child to avoid rough play with dogs. Pulling ears, tails, or any rough handling can be painful and frightening for the dog.
Teach your child to respect a dog's personal space. If a dog shows signs of discomfort (such as growling, backing away, or showing teeth), your child should give the dog space and not try to force interaction.