<p> Pawtential Dog Training And Behaviour Consultation Lyn Witts Cert IV Dog Behavioural Trainer Cert IV Veterinary Nurse Member of PPGA, APDTA and Delta Institute. www.pawtential.com.au</p><p>Keeping Children and Dogs Safe</p><p>The highest incidence of dog bites occurs in children under the age of 10. The bites are usually received from the family dog or a friend’s dog. If children behave inappropriately around their own dog, they may well do the same with a strange dog. A child’s own dog may learnt to tolerate inappropriate behaviour but their friends dog, or a strangers dog, may bite due to feeling stressed or frightened by the interaction.</p><p>See below for key considerations in Keeping Children and Dogs Safe.</p><p> Children and dogs need to be supervised at all times when together, otherwise they are separated by a barrier such as baby gate, door, playpen, fencing. </p><p> When children and dogs are together, use the opportunity to teach calm, gentle, quite and appropriate interaction.</p><p> Be consistent in teaching children to not: - approach a dog that is eating - approach a dog that is resting - follow any dog</p><p> Be consistent in teaching children if they want to interact with a dog: - ask their parent first, then the owner of the dog and finally the dog! - talk to the dog but if the dog moves away rather than showing a desire to interact, do not follow!</p><p> If a dog approaches showing an interest in interacting: - offer a palm lower than the dog’s head for the dog to sniff - do not pat a dog in the head - do not hug a dog - a scratch under the chin, or on the chest is usually enjoyed by a dog - (** Stand like a tree with arms folded across chest if approached by a strange dog)</p><p>Continued… Page Two Keeping Children and Dogs Safe Pawtential Dog Training</p><p> Teach children to recognise when a dog is wanting to be left alone e.g. - turning head or body away - moving away - yawning (when not tired) - tongue flicks up the nose (Show children the illustrated handouts on dog language)</p><p> Training Sessions need to include: - “go to mat” or “in your crate” (Children are to stay away from dogs when they are resting) - “sit for greetings” or “drop for greetings” (By practising these positions and making them rewarding, they will replace Jumping).</p><p>Please teach your children to be respectful of all dogs, not just your own. It is unfair to expect a dog to have to cope with the behaviour, high energy and movement of young children.</p><p>The website, www.doggonesafe.com is well worth a look for more information on Safety of Children and Dogs.</p><p>Please contact Pawtential Dog Training for help with training sessions.</p><p>Lyn Witts</p>