Keeping your children safe around your dog: 7 essential tips

Recent tragic incidents involving dogs and children serve as important reminders for all pet owners about the need for vigilance and responsible dog ownership. While dog attacks on children are very rare, educating families about safety and proper interaction is crucial to prevent accidents.

Understanding the Dangerous Dogs Act in the UK

The Dangerous Dogs Act is UK legislation designed to ban the ownership and breeding of certain dog breeds deemed potentially dangerous due to their physical strength and aggression risk. While many dogs from these banned breeds can be gentle, it is important for families to avoid acquiring these breeds or ensure they are responsibly housed and managed. Awareness of which breeds are prohibited and compliance with this law helps protect children and the wider community.

Considering Rescue Dogs for Families

Choosing to rescue or rehome a dog is a compassionate choice praised by animal welfare advocates. However, prospective owners, especially those with children, should carefully assess the dog's temperament and history. Adult rescue dogs may have experienced trauma, poor training or learned behaviours that can increase the risk of aggression or anxiety. It is vital to:

• Obtain full information about the dog's background and temperament from the rescue organisation.
• Choose a dog that has been well-tested by professionals and is known to respond well to children.
• Remember that male dogs statistically show higher aggression risks; however, female dogs may also display defensive aggression.

Supervision: The Cornerstone of Safety

Supervision by a responsible adult is absolutely essential whenever children and dogs are together. Even dogs that have been part of the family for a long time may react unpredictably to certain triggers. Never leave young children alone with dogs, and closely monitor how visitors or friends interact with your dog to prevent incidents.

Teaching Children Respectful Interaction

Educating children on how to behave gently and safely with dogs reduces risk significantly. Teach them to:

• Avoid disturbing dogs when they are eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies.
• Never pull a dog’s ears, tail, or jump on them.
• Ask for permission before approaching an unfamiliar dog.
• Recognise when a dog wants to be left alone, such as when it retreats to its safe space.

Recognising Warning Signs of Aggression

Dog attacks rarely occur without preceding signs. Adults should learn to identify common warning signals such as growling, snapping, stiff postures, lip licking, avoidance, or showing the whites of their eyes. If any such behaviour occurs, separate children and dogs immediately and consult a dog behaviour specialist if necessary.

Training Your Dog Properly

Training your dog in basic obedience commands such as "sit," "stay," and "leave it" helps maintain control in situations involving children and guests. Well-socialised dogs that are comfortable around children tend to be calmer and safer. If behavioural issues arise, seeking professional help early is important.

When Difficult Decisions Are Needed

If a dog’s temperament is found to be unsuitable or unsafe around children despite best efforts, responsible owners must consider rehoming the dog with full disclosure to an experienced owner without children, or in rare cases, humane euthanasia to prevent harm.

By combining knowledgeable supervision, education for children, careful dog selection, and ongoing training, families can foster safe and loving environments for both children and dogs.