It is very important to teach children how to approach and relate to dogs. More than 4.7 million people in the United States are bitten by dogs yearly. 80% are from dogs you know and interact with on a regular basis. Even the friendliest dog can be uncomfortable and can bite from quick movements and or loud noises from children.
Children move quickly, talk loudly, and hug dogs. Children are three times more likely to be bitten by a dog than an adult. Most common with children under the age of 13.
This can all be avoided. Here are some tips to teach children and help them be good friends with dogs:
Tips to Avoid Dog Bites:
- Always ask permission before petting a dog.
- Do not sneak up on a dog while they are eating or sleeping.
- Do not pet a dog who is playing with a toy.
- Do not pet a dog in a car.
- Do not pet a dog behind a fence.
Signs to look for if a dog is fearful:
- Dogs will make themselves look bigger with their ears and fur standing up.
- Teeth bared and growling and staring straight at whoever is approaching.
- Dogs may shrink to the ground by putting their tail between their legs and fold their ears back.
When approached by an unknown dog:
- Stop and stand still like a tree with your hands at your side.
- If you are on the ground lie still with your knees tucked into your stomach and your hands over your ears.
- Walk back very slowly, and do not try to out run a dog.
Dog Safety is not only for children. Adults also need to be aware of their surroundings and how to respond to an unfriendly dog.
There are several animal behaviorist in Atlanta: U.S. Canine, Atlanta Dog Trainer, Behavior Modification & Dog Psychology Angie Woods, owner of U.S. Canine, a canine rehabilitation center, located in Buford, GA and has been working with dogs for over 20 years. Angie currently has a pack of over 20 dogs. Her pack is balanced, therefore can assist in the rehabilitation of client dogs. U.S. Canine specializes in aggression, fears, phobias, and other behavioral issues.
Behavior Problems
• Aggression
• Phobias
• Hyperactivity
• Excessive Barking
• Bad Manners
See amazing results as you learn about the “pack behavior” approach.
Many people seek obedience training before establishing pack leadership without knowing that this is backwards approach. Obedience training should be the follow-up after all behavior problems have been addressed.
U.S. Canine focuses on training people to be good pack leaders and dogs to be good followers!
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