A child who loves animals may move toward a dog quickly. Another child may freeze, shout or run when a dog approaches. A useful safety plan does not label every dog as dangerous or expect a child to read subtle animal behaviour alone. It gives the child one repeatable routine and keeps adult supervision central.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that any dog can bite, particularly when frightened, unwell, eating, sleeping or protecting toys or puppies. It advises adults to supervise young children even around familiar dogs and to ask the owner before petting an unfamiliar dog.
Teach pause–ask–wait
Pause: stay beside the trusted adult, with hands close to the body. Ask: the adult asks the owner, “May we say hello?” Wait: no reaching until both the owner and trusted adult agree. “No” or “not today” ends the interaction without argument. A picture card or three gestures can make the sequence accessible.
Practise respectful distance
Use photographs, a toy dog or role-play before practising near a real animal. Teach the child not to disturb a dog that is eating, sleeping, caring for puppies, hiding or moving away. Avoid hugging, face-to-face contact, grabbing fur or rough play. If contact is invited, let the dog approach first and keep the interaction brief and calm.
Plan for an approaching loose dog
Practise stopping rather than running or screaming, standing quietly beside the adult and slowly moving away when it is safe. The trusted adult should manage the situation and contact appropriate local services for a loose or distressed animal. Do not ask the child to rescue or catch it.
If a bite or scratch occurs, move to safety, tell a trusted adult immediately and seek appropriate medical advice; local professionals can assess wound care and rabies risk. AutDHD’s help-seeking plan and body-boundary guide can reinforce “stop,” distance and getting help. The child is never to blame for an animal’s behaviour.
This is general information shared for parent awareness, not medical advice. Every child is different — please confirm decisions with your child’s doctor or a suitably qualified professional.