Why Teach This Early?

Dog bites are a leading cause of childhood injuries, mostly from familiar dogs. Teaching proper approach and reading body language prevents accidents. In the Netherlands, dog safety is taught in preschools, dramatically reducing bite incidents.

Progressive Sub-Goals

Introduction

Knows to ask permission before approaching any dog

💡 Tip: Practice the script: "May I pet your dog?" until automatic.

Developing

Approaches calm dogs slowly, lets them sniff hand

💡 Tip: Demonstrate: crouch low, hand in fist, let dog come to you.

Mastery

Understands basic dog body language

💡 Tip: Use picture cards showing happy, scared, and angry dog postures.

Teaching Tips

1Never approach a dog that is eating, sleeping, or with puppies
2Teach "be a tree" if a strange dog approaches: stand still, arms down, look away
3Practice with stuffed animals before real dogs
4Watch dog body language videos together