Kids & Dogs

Safe interaction resources

Practicing safe handling with dogs is one of the best lessons to teach kids. Keep it simple to help kids remember what to do and what not to do.

Older kids and teenagers may be ready to learn more about dog body language, so feel free to share any of our body language videos and resources.

Want an interactive resource you can do with your kids? Check out our interactive coloring book with a special parent's guide to each page!

Body Language & Safe Handling

Our favorite resources for kids + dog safety are found at Stop the 77 (really great stuff). Watch this video on The Family Dog. It's hard to believe that most bites occur with the family dog and kids are the most at risk! We need to be an advocate for our kids and our dogs by helping them to understand each other.

Here is another quick and good read by Dr.Yin. Check out more resources at the bottom of the page after a look at some easy to understand graphics below. Share these graphics with the kids in your life. Go through these slowly and be there to ask and answer questions to be sure they understand. A stuffed toy dog makes a great demo and can make a learning session interactive. I am happy to do these with your kids as well. Keeping kids safe helps keep your dogs safe!

Here is a visual from Dr. Sophia Yin on how kids should not interact with dogs.

How-Kids-Should-NOT-Interact-With-Dogs-P

More Resources

https://www.thedogclinic.com/kids-and-dogs Easy to read and understand site that includes some clear body language pictures

Staying Safe Around Dogs An article from Best Friends Animal Society about staying safe

https://www.diamondsintheruff.com/good-with-kids This site asks questions to help you determine if your dog is good with kids

www.DogGoneSafe.com – body language flashcards, games, stories, and coloring books on dog bite prevention

www.FamilyPaws.com – programs & articles for expectant parents and parents of babies and toddlers; DOG & BABY SUPPORT HOTLINE: 1-877-247-3407

www.thefamilydog.com– tips, videos, and online training program for kids. Our featured video (https://yourdogsfriend.org/featured-video/) on body language is from The Family Dog.

www.yourfamilydogpodcast.com – a podcast on issues affecting families with dogs

www.GoodDogInABox.com– SAFE dog bite prevention and safety program for kids; videos, ebooks & games

www.awionline.org– “Pablo Puppy’s Search for the Perfect Person”, a book for 4 – 8 year olds; board game, matching game, and coloring pages for kids