Every child should know some safety rules that explain how to be safe around dogs.  Following these rules can help to protect you from dog bites.

Sometimes you want to reach out and be friendly to a .  But dogs do not always know that.  They may worry that you will hurt them.  They may think you want to take something from them. 

That is why you should not pet a dog who is sleeping. 

Is it OK to pet a dog who is with his/her ? 

First, ask the owner. 

Next, close  your fist.  Let the dog smell the back of your hand. 
(That's how dogs get to know you.) 
Then gently pet the dog.

 What do you do if a strange comes near you? What if the owner is not there?

Stand still, like a . 
Don't run or shout. 
If a dog knocks you down, curl up like a ball.
Cover your ears. 
If you are quiet and calm, the dog will usually just sniff you. 
Then he will probably leave.

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Date Last Modified 09/25/2008