1.  Never ever hug or kiss any dog!

I know I love big hugs around the neck and lots of kisses on my face, but dogs DO NOT. One of the biggest reasons kids get bit in the face is hugging a dog around the neck or kissing them on the face. If you want to show doggie love give him lots of scratches on the chest or the side of his neck.

2.  Be still like a statue.

If a dog you don’t know comes near you, be still like a statue. You have to not move at all, fold your arms in and stare down at your feet (but still watch the dog out of the corner of your eye). Dogs think statues are not any fun at all and will go away. They may walk over and sniff you which can be scary but you have to stay still and let it sniff you and then he will get bored and go away.  Once he goes away do not run.  Walk away very slowly.

3.  Don’t ever scream around a dog or run away.

Dogs get super excited by things that move and make a lot of noise so if you start screaming and running away, they might even think you are prey (something to eat that would be very yummy for their tummy). Back away from a strange dog very slowly and never look at the dog in the eyes.

4. Don’t ever play rough with a dog.

The dog may not know when they are hurting you and may not know when to stop!

5.  Never pet a dog you don’t know.

The rule is simple: Don’t touch or go near a dog you don’t know. Although they may look cool or nice and friendly, leave them alone. They may not be used to being around people and may bite or attack if you come near them.

6.  Never take away a dogs food, water or toys.

You would not like it if someone took your food or water away and dogs can react to being mad by biting, scratching or attacking you.

7.  Never tease, poke or throw things at a dog.

It is the same as with their food, if they think you are going to hurt them or you are being mean to them they are going to fight back.

8.  Never bother a pet when it’s sleeping.

It may wake up scared, confused or cranky and may lash out at you for being the one to wake him up.

9. Never try to get near a pet with its babies (like a cat with kittens or a dog with puppies).

Animal mothers are like our mommies and are very protective of their babies.  But pet mommies will bite or attack you to keep you away.

10. If a dog looks sick or is injured, stay far away.

Even friendly dogs that usually love to be petted and play may get upset and even bite when it is sick or doesn’t feel so good. Find the closest adult so they can get help for the dog.