Every April, Dog Bite Prevention Week reminds us that most dog bites are preventable. This awareness-based holiday aims to educate families on how dogs communicate and how kids should behave around them. At Long Island Pet Services, we work with dogs and families across Long Island every day, and we’ve seen how a few simple rules can make interactions safer for everyone.
Below are some easy ways to teach kids (and adults) how to stay safe around dogs while still enjoying their company.
What Dogs Are Really Saying
What Dogs Are Really Saying: Through Body Language
Dogs can’t speak our language, but they tell us how they’re feeling with their body language. For example, a relaxed dog usually has a loose wag, soft eyes, and a loose, wiggly body. If a dog is enjoying itself, it might lean into pets and keep its tail relaxed.
On the contrary, a stressed or uncomfortable dog might:
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Freeze up or stand very still
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Tuck its tail tightly
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Turn its head away or avoid eye contact
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Show the whites of its eyes
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Lower its body or back away
Additionally, if a dog is growling, snapping, or barking, it’s sending a clear message that it’s feeling scared, protective, or overwhelmed. Teaching kids to recognize these signs early can help prevent accidents before they happen.
Simple Rules for Kids Around Dogs
Simple Rules for Kids Around Dogs
When kids know what to do, they’re less likely to trigger a fearful reaction in a dog. So, you should share these basic rules with your family:
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Always ask an adult or the dog’s owner before you pet a dog.
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Stay calm and avoid rushing up to a dog, especially if it’s eating, sleeping, or playing with toys.
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Don’t hug tight, kiss, or pull on a dog’s ears, tail, or collar.
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If a dog looks nervous or unsure, give it space and don’t try to force petting.
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If a dog licks its lips, yawns, or looks away, those can be signs it’s uncomfortable, so it’s time to back off.
Explain that every dog is different, and even if their own dog is friendly, not all dogs are okay with the same level of contact.
What to Do If a Dog Seems Scared or Upset
What to Do If a Dog Seems Scared or Upset
Teaching kids how to respond calmly around a nervous dog can help keep everyone safe. For example, if a dog:
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Stands frozen
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Barks or growls
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Lunges or moves toward them
Then kids should:
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Stay still and avoid yelling or running.
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Keep their hands at their sides and avoid making sudden movements.
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Quietly call an adult for help and let the adult handle the situation.
If a dog gets too close, calmly stepping back or moving behind a parent or piece of furniture can help. In many cases, giving the dog space and letting it walk away is the safest option.
Creating a Safe Environment for Kids and Dogs
Many bites happen when dogs feel cornered, overstimulated, or stressed. You can help reduce tension by:
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Supervising all interactions between kids and dogs, even if both seem calm.
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Giving your dog a quiet “safe zone,” like a crate or gated area, where it can relax when the house is noisy.
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Not forcing your dog to be petted or held when it clearly wants to be left alone.
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Using positive reinforcement (treats, praise, and calm play) to reward calm behavior around kids.
If your dog is reactive, anxious, or new to the family, working with a trusted dog walker or pet sitter can help keep its routine consistent and its energy levels balanced, which in turn can make it easier to manage around children.
How Long Island Pet Services Can Support Your Family
How Long Island Pet Services Can Support Your Family
As a Long Island pet sitting and dog walking service, we know how important it is to build safe, respectful relationships between kids and dogs. Whether you’re:
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Helping your kids feel more confident around a shy dog
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Managing a puppy that’s still learning boundaries
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Or just looking for professional support during busy family times
Our dog walkers and pet sitters can help reinforce positive habits and behaviors. We focus on gentle handling, clear routines, and calm, structured walks that reduce stress for both dogs and owners.
Looking For A Pet Sitter Or Dog Walker?
Looking For A Pet Sitter Or Dog Walker?
The best way to keep your pets happy, healthy, and sociable is to hire a pet sitter! But, don’t hire just anyone. Hire the professionals! Long Island Pet Services is the best place to turn to for professional, quality pet sitting services.
We offer a wide variety of services including dog walking, drop-in visits, overnight stays, pet taxi, and more! Click here to become a client today or give us a call at 516-247-6976. We look forward to hearing from you! Be sure to check out our social media pages too! Follow us on our Facebook, Instagram, and X!
